Co-op Movement will be developed - Majeed

THE Co-operative Movement will be reorganised to achieve the President's vision "Mahinda Chinthana" said Co-operatives and Co-operative Development Minister M. Najeeb A. Majeed, when he assumed duties at his new Ministry at Bristol Building, York Street, Colombo 1 yesterday.

He said the Co-operative Movement has a long history.

It had its roots in England, when Robet Owen started the first co-operative institution. Its principles were new Co-operative had, as its principle that consumers were the manager, he added.

Sri Lanka had an excellent co-operative movement. In the North, there were good examples of co-operatives. In the South, Sanda Lankawa, built by T.B. Subasinghe had an international reputation.

It has not been able to build professional cadres. It has lost its competitive edge because of State provided monopolies.

Political interference had its impact. Globalisation too had affected the movement badly. Majeed said: "It is in this context, that I have been given the sole responsibility of reviving the Co-operative Movement. It is a difficult task but not an impossible one.

The Co-operative way is vital for Sri Lanka. I am confident, with the support of all of you, we can make headway in this task.

The Minister thanked President Rajapakse for appointing him as the Minister in charge of Co-operatives and Co-operative Development.