State officers directed to use economic class for overseas travel

The President’s office has  directed state officials to travel abroad using economic class plane tickets as a measure to ensure that the state resources are used efficiently.

The current economic crisis has been cited as the reason for the decision.

Accordingly the president Secretary, Saman Ekanayake has issued a directive for state officials to purchase Economy Class airline tickets when traveling abroad.

This move was taken to maximize the use of government funds and to ensure that the resources are utilized efficiently.

The  directive is to take effect from March 01, 2023, and would be replacing all previous circulars and instructions related to this matter.

According to the new directive, officials such as the Chief Justice, Justices of the Supreme Court, Chairman of the Court of Appeal, and Justices of the Court of Appeal are exempt from booking Economy Class tickets.

However, if an officer needs to travel Business Class, they may do so at their own expense, paying the difference between an Economy and Business Class ticket. The directive also states that exceptions to this rule require prior approval, based on sufficient justification.

The President's directive aims to ensure that government funds are used only for essential purposes and that resources are utilized efficiently. By limiting the use of Business Class tickets, the government can save a significant amount of money while still enabling officials to travel for official purposes, the circular said.

All relevant agencies and organizations under the purview of the directive, including Heads of Provincial Ministries, Departments, State Corporations, and Statutory Organizations, have been instructed to comply with the new provisions. Officials are also advised to seek priorapproval if they believe they have a sufficient justification for an exception to the rule.