The Parliamentary Oversight Committee on Tourism and Cultural Affairs, under the leadership of Hon. Mohamed Sheriff Rahaman-Coker, commenced a crucial investigation hearing on Wednesday, February 21, 2024, at Committee Room 1 in the Parliament Building. The focus of the investigation was on Hotels and Guest Houses operating in the country.

The primary objective, as outlined by the Chairperson, is to assess the compliance of these establishments with various regulations, including residential permits, NASSIT (National Social Security and Insurance Trust), PAYE (Pay As You Earn), waste management, corporate social responsibility, the minimum wage, and registration and licensing with the Tourism Board.

During his brief remarks, Hon. Mohamed Sheriff Rahaman-Coker mentioned that the engagement began last year, with hotels and guesthouses legally mandated to submit all relevant documentation for scrutiny by the committee. He emphasized that the Tourism Committee, in accordance with the 1991 Constitution of Sierra Leone, is duty-bound to conduct oversight and checks for compliance, subsequently reporting to the Chamber of Parliament for consideration.

Several Hotels and Guest Houses faced probing from the committee during the hearings. It was noted, however, that a considerable number of establishments did not adhere to the documentation requests made by the committee. Additionally, some hotel officials were not adequately prepared to address the committee’s inquiries.

Expressing displeasure with the lack of compliance from certain hotels and guesthouses, the committee recommended a comprehensive oversight to be conducted on all hotels and guesthouses. This extensive check will aim to ensure compliance, and actions will be taken against those found in violation of regulations.

The hearings by the Tourism Committee are set to continue throughout this week and the next. The committee is expected to present its recommendations to the Chamber of Parliament for thorough consideration, underscoring the government’s commitment to ensuring compliance within the tourism sector for the benefit of both operators and visitors