Harsha assures sound policies within social market economy

Monday, 19 January 2015 00:53 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

By Chamitha Kuruppu Policy Planning and Economic Affairs Deputy Minister Dr. Harsha de Silva on Saturday voiced the importance of a ‘social market economy,’ the benefits of which would be enjoyed by every citizen in this country. Assuming duties on Saturday at the Prime Minister’s office located at Flower Road, Dr. de Silva assured new administration would bring sound economic policies that would uplift the lives of every citizen.

“We respect former President Mahinda Rajapaksa for ending the war. Unfortunately, Rajapaksa and his Government failed to do any other good for the country and that is why people did not want to re-elect him as the President,” pointed out Dr. de Silva. He added: “When the Rajapaksa Government boasted the economy was growing at 7% or 8%, I openly said it was less than 1% growth at the average household level. When they boasted about highways, flyover bridges, airports and ports, people wondered why they couldn’t enjoy benefits of such miraculous economy. We are ready to answer that question.” The Deputy Minister said the new Government would not harp on about the number of audiences in a cricket stadium or the length of an expressway. “Our main aim will be to ensure a boost in the economy and a corresponding increase in the average income of households. That is the economic growth we want to reach. That is the development we look forward to,” asserted the Deputy Minister. According to Dr. de Silva, measures will be taken to re-evaluate projects commenced by the previous regime. Immediate investigations will commence on the controversial EPF and stock market transactions. Independent investigators will be appointed to each case and legal action will be taken against any unlawful deals. When asked about the pledges made during the election to bring down fuel prices, reduce the cost of living and increase wages, the Deputy Minister said: “We will fulfil the pledges we made. We are coordinating with the Ministry of Finance.” However, Dr. de Silva pointed out that he was unable to give an exact timeframe as to when these would be carried out. “I cannot give an exact date but we will do it within the 100 days.” While thanking supporters of the UNP, SLFP, JHU and other political party supporters for their vote and especially for making Maithripala Sirisena President of this country, Dr. de Silva said: “This is a milestone in my political career. I am assuming duties as the Deputy of a Ministry headed by Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe. It is no secret that the Premier will have many duties and responsibilities. As the Deputy I will be in charge of Policy Planning and Economic Affairs Ministry. This is an important ministry.” He asserted that it was a blessing and a privilege to make use of his knowledge as an economist to serve the motherland. “For the last four-and-a-half years I have been criticising the economic policies of the Rajapaksa administration. There were instances where I extended my support too. Now I have been given the opportunity to boost the economy of my country,” Deputy Minister de Silva added.