A group of well-wishers who have volunteered to assist the state in its rebuilding program met President Chandrika Bandaranaike Kumaratunga on Thursday.

Among the group of around 50 persons, there were clergymen, private sector entrepreneurs and those representing Non Governmental Organizations. This was the third such team registered with the TAFREN to meet the President, states a Presidential Secretariat press release.

The other two groups have already signed the Memoranda of Understanding with the Government. One group has already been allocated lands for building and construction has begun. More suitable lands are being identified for new housing projects; privately owned lands if found suitable will be purchased outright by the state.

President Kumaratunga explained to the group of builders the Government's policy on housing and land allocation. She thanked them for their commitment and their enthusiasm to support the Government's efforts to rebuild the nation.

Additional Secretary to the President Chitra Ahturugiriya, Secretary to the Ministry of Urban Development Thosapala Hewage and TAFREN officials were present.