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He said the government has great confidence in the labour community. The President pointed out that the present government is a government of the labour population. Therefore, the government is always prepared to maintain strong ties with the working people. President Rajapakse stated this addressing the May Day rally of the United Peoples? Freedom Alliance at the Mahaweli Grounds in Dehiaththakandiya.

He assured that the eastern province will not be allowed to return to the clutches of terrorists and support of the eastern people must be extended to the government in this regard. The people of the north and the Wanni will be liberated in the same manner their eastern counter parts have now been liberated.

President Rajapakse stated that the government is engaged in attaining economic independence parallel to the eradication of terrorism. He noted that the government rendered in valuable service in the past two years especially in revitalising the public sector. The President observed that the government also initiated major projects such as the Norachcholai and Upper Kothmale power plants.

He pointed out that the government is engaged in these measures on behalf of the people not for political motives but for national dignity. He also paid tribute on May Day to the heroic war heroes who liberated the east. Addressing the rally Minister Maithreepala Sirisena noted that a few years ago holding an election in the eastern province was merely a dream.

The present government has succeeded in making it a reality.

Also addressing the rally Minister Athauda Senevirathne projected that accelerated development could witnessed in the Eastern Province after its governance is taken over by representatives elected by the people. Minister Nimal Siripala De Silva observed that the government is able to fight terrorism because the labour community contributes with regard to the national economy. Therefore, they receive the tribute of the government.

The aim of the government at this point is to enable the people of the east to enjoy the liberty enjoyed by the eastern people. Minister D.M. Jayarathne told the gathering that an environment will be created in the eastern province where Sinhalese, Tamil and Muslim communities could live side by side.

Minister Dinesh Gunawardena said the present government has launched a plan to create a new Sri Lanka through the union of the labour community.

Making the welcome address Western Province Governor Alavi Maulana said the UPFA is hoping to hold a future May Day rally in the north.

At today\'s May Day rally four proposals benefiting the working masses were presented.

During the process of the rally two UNP members of the Uhana Pradeshiya Sabha joined the Sri Lanka Freedom Party. The Pradeshiya Sabha Members Hasitha Mahesh and A. Ranasinghe said they will work together with the Alliance government.

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