People reap development dividends - Minister Alahapperuma

P.P.G.Sugathadasa –Thihagoda group corr and Matara central corr

Minister Dullas Alahapperuma

Benefits of accelerated socioeconomic advancement have started to trickle down to every nook and corner of the island, Youth Affairs and Skills Development Minister Dullas Alahapperuma said.

He was speaking at the 65th Independence Day celebrations held at the Sanath Jayasuriya Stadium in Matara.

The peace loving people of the country have got the opportunity to hold freedom day celebrations without fear and suspicion following the annihilation of terrorism with farsighted statesmanship of President Mahinda Rajapaksa and bravery and sacrifices of valiant security forces and Police, Minister Alahapperuma said.

The government acted with commitment, courage and determination to vanquish forces ranged against the country.

Unity among all ethnic groups is indispensable for socioeconomic prosperity of the people, he said.

Development programmes such as Gama Neguma, Maga Naguma Divi Neguma and Jathika Saviya contributed much for the uplift of the country’s economy, he said.

Matara-Akuressa and Matara-Hakmana highways will be widened and developed with four lanes and the Southern Expressway will be extended to Matara by August.

The newly constructed hospital at Kotawila, Labeema will be opened by the President February 16, Alahapperuma said.