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12 December 2007

As we enter the festive period, I wish all the people of the Eastern Cape and our visitors to our beautiful province a safe, peaceful and fun-filled holiday season.

As our roads will be busy, I urge everyone not to speed and not to drink and drive. Those that do not heed the warning of our provincial traffic officers will face the full might of the law; we cannot afford even one causality on our roads. One is one too many.

I encourage you to resist indulging in risky behaviour. HIV and AIDS is also a threat during the festive season. Abstain, be faithful, or condomise to prevent the risk of HIV infection.

The holiday season is generally marked by an increase in violence. Let us collectively act against violence. I urge you to report perpetrators as we extend our campaign to end violence against women and children throughout the year.

In fulfilment of government's commitment to service delivery, I am pleased to say that government departments will remain open throughout the festive season, closing only on public holidays. Service delivery will continue in accordance with our Batho Pele Principles.

Let us all share the joy and happiness that this season brings! Remember those less fortunate than you as this is the spirit which makes the Eastern Cape a compelling place to live, work, invest and play.

May I wish all people of the Eastern Cape province, their families and visitors a festive season full of joy, love and peace.

Mrs Nosimo Balindlela
Eastern Cape Premier

Issued by: Office of the Premier, Eastern Cape Provincial Government
12 December 2007
Source: Eastern Cape Provincial Government (http://www.ecpg.gov.za)