President Mohamed Nasheed has said that the economic reform bills that have been submitted to the parliament will merely benefit the people of the Maldives, bring about further development to the state, and provide means for growth to the country.
In his weekly radio address given today, the President highlighted on the concern shown towards these bills, by some members of the parliament and a number of business associations. He also assured that there was no need for any concern about the bills, despite the unfavourable consequences being predicted by a few business associations.
Speaking of the launching ceremony of the government’s economic reform programmes to be held next Monday evening, President Nasheed noted that the government’s entire economic programme will be publicised completely at the ceremony.
In today’s radio address, the President also conveyed his greetings to the youth of the country on the occasion of the International Youth Day, being marked today. President Nasheed underscored the precedence given by the government, to provide suitable training and education to the youth before they are released in to the labour market. Noting the government’s plan to release 8500 locals with rigorous training for employment, the President looked upon the progress made so far in attaining this goal.
The President also highlighted on the “Second Chance Programme” announced on Independence Day this year, which will assist the social reintegration of youths undergoing criminal prosecution, who are given the second chance. The President re-affirmed that repeat offenders among the released would immediately be re-imprisoned.
About 40 prisoners are currently undergoing the “Second Chance Programme”. President Nasheed conveyed his hopes for more young offenders to be rehabilitated through this programme, and be facilitated with more opportunities.