Priority to economic development: Finance Minister Ravi Karunanayake

While noting that the public were questioning when the Yahapalana Government was going to provide relief for them, Finance Minister Ravi Karunanayake said that people’s expectations will soon bear fruit as the country is slated to undergo a revolutionary change in its economy, in the near future. 

The Minister noted that it was no easy task to revive an economy which has been on the decline and added that however the Government was now taking it on the path of recovery. He predicted that the economy will achieve unprecedented growth with new innovations.

The Minister noted the above in his speech as the chief guest at the opening of the Crow Island Beach Park at Mattakkuliya on Saturday afternoon. The beach park built at a cost of Rs. 275 million on a two kilometre stretch includes restaurants, children’s play areas and an open theatre.

Minister for Megapolis and Western Development Patali Champika Ranawaka, Minister of National Co-existence Dialogue and Official Languages Mano Ganesan and Colombo Mayor A.J.M. Muzzammil too were among the attendees.

Minister Karunanayake went on to say, “Many ask us what benefits they will get under the Yahapalana Government. I have one request; give us a brief time further to revive this economy and lift it to greater heights. We took over an economy which had been destroyed due to corrupt practices and financial indiscipline. But we will never let the people feel the ill effects of these economic issues. Earlier it was like the ‘Colambata Kiri Gamata Kekiri’ story, but under our Government we will ensure that all, irrespective of where they live will receive equal opportunities and facilities.”

“Earlier we were distanced by the international community due to ethnic disharmony which prevailed in the country then. Today the scenario is different, we have strengthened friendships and the international community is focusing on Sri Lanka with new vigour.”

“This beach park will bring numerous benefits to the people in the area. The North Colombo area is the most under developed area in Colombo. I will make all efforts to rectify this anomaly.”

“With Colombo harbour destined to undergo further development, the value of the Crow Island Beach Park will go up. It is your duty to protect this facility. I request the Police to allow the public to move freely in this area. However, any illegal activities should not be condoned. We need to act with discipline. We need to act with discipline to build the country as well. When the country develops the people will reap the benefits.”

Minister Patali Champika Ranawaka addressing the gathering said, “Irregular city development is the main reason for the problems in the Colombo North area. Also this Crow Island area was earlier famous for illegal activities, narcotic and a place frequented by the underworld. So the educated and well to do persons shunned this area. We will not only work towards transforming the socio-economic face of this area but will also develop the environment,” 

Minister Mano Ganeshan speaking on the occasion said. 

“We are all talking about co-existence. In my ministry one area is about co-existence and the other about national languages. We need to initiate dialogue to achieve co-existence and strengthen harmony. We all should work as one.”

The Minister also said that he had no doubt that Finance Minister Ravi Karunanayake will do his utmost to uplift the North Colombo area.