By Esther Wright
The Parliamentary Committee on Tourism and Cultural Affairs, chaired by Hon. Mohamed Sheriff Rahman-Coker, on 31 July 2024 conducted a comprehensive investigation into the compliance of hotels and guest houses. The session took place in the Conference Room of the New Building at Parliament on Tower Hill, Freetown.
Committee members scrutinized various aspects of the establishments, including their registration with the National Tourist Board, adherence to minimum wage laws, recent audit reports, waste management practices, corporate social responsibility (CSR) efforts, community relations, staff contributions to the National Social Security and Insurance Trust (NASSIT), possession of Environmental Impact Assessment licenses, staff welfare, Pay As You Earn (PAYE) compliance and working permits.
Compliance Findings:
– The View Hotel at Freetown City Council was compliant with all requirements except for the Environmental Impact Assessment license.
– Mozak Resorts was praised for its CSR activities in the York community, employing many local residents. However, they cited heavy government taxation as a significant challenge.
– Sellieu Babatel Hotel is currently non-operational due to ongoing renovations but is expected to resume operations next month.
– Medrie International Hotel at Lumely Beach was found lacking in several compliance documents and CSR initiatives.
– Malador Real Estate has not yet commenced operations but has completed its registration as it plans to enter the real estate market.
– Sweet Mother Guest House failed to present NASSIT contributions, PAYE records or a staff list for 2024.
– Franco Diving Center in Sussex has been operational since 1994 and is noted for its waste management and community support, despite facing challenges with electricity, water supply,and road conditions.
– The Place Guest lacked proper documentation and registration, with the Committee noting its illegal operations.
– Dupsal Resorts did not provide essential documents and was scheduled for further scrutiny.
Sky Inn Motel was unable to produce some required documents, prompting the Committee to summon the Manager or Proprietor to appear personally on Monday, instead of sending junior staff.
The Committee expressed concern over the trend of Proprietors or Senior Management sending junior staff to represent them during such important proceedings. Witnesses highlighted key challenges impacting their businesses, including issues with electricity, waste management, heavy taxation, inadequate water suppl, and poor road networks.
The Committee continues its efforts to ensure compliance and address the challenges faced by the hospitality industry in Freetown.
