INTRODUCTORY REMARKS BY THE PREMIER OF THE NORTHERN CAPE PROVINCE, MS SYLVIA LUCAS, ON THE OCCASION OF THE MAY DAY RALLY, GALSHEWE STADIUM, 01 MAY 2013

Programme Director

The President of the ANC and the Republic of South Africa, President Jacob Zuma

Comrades and Friends

Every year, on May 01, we observe Mayday also known as workers day to celebrate the historic struggles of the working people of South Africa and the rest of the word. Workers everywhere in the world are remembering their struggles and victories. This is a day that we will never forget because of its significance on the national calendar of events.

Indeed, Comrades and friends, this May Day rally take place a few days after we have celebrated our freedom throughout the country. That was the day in which our human dignity and rights were restored. That was the day on which we took our destiny into our own hands. It was on this day that our people put their trust and faith in the ANC, the only organisation that have their interest at heart.

In celebrating May Day, as workers we must recognise and commemorate May Day not only for its historical significance, but also as a time to reflect and organise around issues of vital importance to working class people.

It was on this day that workers demanded humane treatment; it is men and women around the world marching in solidarity against the factory owners who would have them work all day. Workers are fighting against exploitation and a better life for all.

Today, we also mourn the tragic event which has led to the death of our comrades who drowned in the Saulspoort dam, when a bus that was ferrying workers from Kimberley to a May Day National Rally in Qwaqwa, plunged into the dam in May 1 2003. May the souls of the departed Cadres rest in eternal peace.

Programme Director, one of the greatest achievements of our young democracy is to ensure that the rights and interests of the workers are protected as never before. Our new constitution consolidates the gains of years of struggle by organised workers.

We celebrate these achievements knowing that we have only made a start in addressing the immense needs of our people such as water, sanitation, electricity etc in meeting their basic needs. We will continue to promote the welfare and the future of workers.

At this juncture, allow me to introduce to you a seasoned cadre who champions the cause of the poor and the working class. A fearless leader who is committed to improve the quality of life of the elderly, women, children, youth and people with disabilities. A visionary leader who works undauntingly around the clock to make South Africa a better place and to give the workers a chance to advance their interest and status in the work place.

Let me now present to you the President of the ANC and the Republic of South Africa, Comrade Jacob Zuma.

I thank you