Vast sums to develop Co-operative societies

ARIYAPALA WANSATHILAKE Kurunegala central special corr.

President Mahinda Rajapaksa allocated vast sums in 2009 budget to develop Co-operative societies, said Minister of Trade and Marketing Development Service Bandula Gunawardana at Mahawa, Nagollagama recently.

He was addressing an election rally in support of the UPFA candidates contesting the Wayamba Provincial Council election to be held on February 14. Minister Gunawardana said, “When there is a war in any country prices of goods usually increase. It is not reasonable to blame the government. Black marketeers always try to exploit innocent consumers. Our intention is to protect consumers from such situations.

He said people living around Wayamba will get an opportunity to purchase their essential goods by these super markets at a reasonable price.

“The Government is in the final phase in achieving victory in the war. People in the North would benefit tremendously from the Government’s economic policies once democracy is re-established there.

He said the Government was acting rapidly to bring down the cost of electricity, which has hampered economic programs. The UNP has lost every election since 2001. This caused severe dissatisfaction, dissident and division within the party.”

NCP Chief Minister Berty Premalal Disanayake said the government’s aim is to uplift infrastructure facilities including drinking water, health facilities electricity and tourism in the NCP and NWP. I appeal from the people of Wayamba to cast their valuable vote in favour of the present Government to complete these tasks and usher peace and prosperity in the Provincial Council.

We have nothing to say about the JVP and UNP campaigns any more. They would surely understand the reality at this PC election,” he said.