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"The opposition did not bring in the No-Confidence Motion against the government as there was no doubt that the government would be winning by a majority if a vote was called. Hence they called for a debate only, as at this stage, even members of the opposition are satisfied with the government's economic programme," said Prof. G.L. Peiris, Minister of Enterprise Development, Industrial Policy and Investment Promotion, Minister of Constitutional Affairs having declared open a Regional Centre for the Gem and Jewellery Authority in the Ratnapura district.

The Ratnapura District being traditionally and historically known for its gem and jewellery industry, this effort is to promote Ratnapura as a commercial city, attracting the tourists. The blue sapphire was officially declared the national gem whilst foundations stones were also laid for a fully-equipped Gem museum, a shopping complex with 20 stalls for the Ambagahayata open gem fairs, scholarships for children of mining families, insurance compensation for those miners that suffered injuries whilst mining, etc., took place under the patronage of Minister Prof. G.L. Peiris and other Ministers and MPs.

Prof. Peiris said the government's economic policy will be declared by the Budget to be presented by the Minister of Finance on November 12. In a nutshell, it will increase salaries, provide employment and self-employment for increasing the incomes and uplifting the standards of families. The government has also taken steps to reduce the interest rates on bank loans in providing capital to the small and medium scale industrial sector. With the assistance of the Ministry, the Gem Authority has also arranged for scientific experiments to be carried out in gem excavations and sightings. We must also infuse modern technology into the gem and jewellery industry and build state-of-the-art laboratories. We must create an environment whereby the tourists that arrive to purchase gems could confidently make their purchases. We have signed agreements with a well-known American laboratory for maintaining required standards and certifications wherein the actual price will be indicated.

"We are living in an extremely competitive world. We must not cling onto our traditional methods of selling but explore and go in to the new markets. This attempt has to be made in order to develop this industry. A Consul has been appointed for this purpose to strengthen relations with Madagascar. Having relaxed the laws relating to the use of land taking into consideration the market, training, technology and financial facilities, we are now updated and in keeping with the 21st century requirements. We have also arranged to provide employment to 15 graduates today." he said.

Minister Prof. Peiris also stated that steps have already been taken towards making the maximum of the gem and jewellery industry and working towards the prosperity of the gem and jewellery industry which is a natural resource in Sri Lanka. This is being done by having implemented proposals forwarded by an oversight committee appointed, comprised veterans on the subject of gem and jewellery in his Ministry. He also stated that it is also necessary to encourage the businessmen in this industry, by resolving the complications faced in regard to land matters and making it smooth work in developing the industry.

Minister of Defence and Civil Aviation Tailak Marapana. We are able to do all this because of the Prime Minister's vision. He has planned it with foresight. These are not Soda-bottle programmes that he has designed for these two years. He hopes to remain as the leader for at least another 15-20 years and bring prosperity to this country. This is why the Prime Minister is working with enthusiasm, is contemplative, having around him the erudite scholars and the intellects.

Minister of Small Holder Development Susantha Punchinilame "Today is a historically significant day for the Ratnapura district. Although Ratnapura discovers gems, the method has been to purchase it from Galle, Kandy or Colombo. After all these years, under the mediation and auspices of Minister Prof. G.L. Peiris, a new foundation has been laid to develop the gem industry, centered around Ratnapura district. All this has been made possible due to vigilance and efficient management of the government and with peace on the ground. It is 40 years since the inception of this corporation. Although all Chairmen have served with dedication the outcome was never 100%. The reason being weak leadership under which they operated. However, the present Chairman has been recognized to be one working on a systematic plan.

The inaugural formalities were performed by Ministers present, Prof. G.L. Peiris, Tilak Marapana and Deputy Minister Susantha Punchinilame. The first day cover issued signifying the official declaration of the Blue Sapphire as the National gem, was received by Prof. G.L. Peiris from Sir Rohana Kumara-Director Philatelic Bureau. Souvenirs were presented to employees completing 20 years service in the Gem and Jewellery Authority.

Member of Parliament P. Abeynayake, Mahinda Rathnatilleke, A.A. Wijetunga, Mayor of Ratnapura HL Nimal Dayawansa, Chairman of National Gem and Jewellery Authority Rusirupala Tennekoon also addressed the gathering. Among those present on this occasion were trade representatives from Hon Kong, China and Taiwan, businessmen, jewellery manufacturers, officers of trade associations and those connected with the gem industry.

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