Parliamentary Oversight Committee Launches Investigation into Compliance of Hotels and Guest Houses

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.