President Mahinda Rajapaksa on Tuesday instructed the Finance Ministry to explore ways and means to allow photo journalists to import cameras and other equipment necessary for their profession duty free.

He instructed the Director of Government Information to find a suitable office for photo journalists to function from.

Representatives of Sri Lanka Photo Journalists Association met the President at Temple Trees on Tuesday and he inquired from them about the shortcomings they faced in carrying out their day to day activities. The Association requested the President for duty free concessions to import cameras and an office from where they could function.

Associated with the President at the meeting were Media Minister Lakshman Yapa Abeywardena, President’s Secretary Lalith Weeratunga, and Director of Government Information Anusha Pelpita

The Photo Journalists Association was represented by its President Srilal Gomes, Secretary Suranimala Perera, Treasurer Gamini Abeysekera and Sudath Silva.

Several other problems encountered by photo journalists were also discussed at this meeting and President Rajapaksa assured the association of speedy solutions.