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The time has come to us to consider whether we have really appreciated the services rendered by women to the country and society at large, states Opposition Leader, Mahinda Rajapakse in a message to mark International Women's Day today.

The message added: "The woman who is the crest of Motherhood rendered an extensive social service which should be respected and appreciated by entire humanity. The money she earned by working abroad has become our leading source of foreign exchange earnings. She is also engaged in the garment industry which is a main foreign exchange earner. She also constituted the majority employed in rural industry as well as the tea and rubber industry.

The service she rendered as a housewife while engaged in these occupations was most praiseworthy. While engaged in various occupations with men as their equals she took a leading part in social activities as well.

The woman had also come to play a leading role in Asian politics. The late Mrs. Sirimavo Bandaranaike who became the worlds first woman Prime Minister and Chandrika Bandaranaike Kumaratunga who has become the executive President have shown that woman is to fit to undertake any responsibility.

Having to cope with the country's increasing crime rate and face the resultant harassment as a mother, wife and daughter had been the biggest challenge facing woman today. Although the majority of the country's population constituted women it is questionable as to whether they received a fair representation in Parliament and the country's administration. Similarly, the time had come for us to consider whether we have really appreciated the enormous services rendered by woman.

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