Melani Manel Perera

MPs from the opposition United National Party cross the floor to join the ruling Sri Lanka Freedom Party. Leaders clash whilst President Rajapakse gains a free hand to deal with the rebels.

Local administration orders the demolition of equipment shelters used by local fishermen without informing or providing them with any alternative. The action seems to be informed by a desire to clean up the town’s image ahead of an international aid conference to get funds for the area’s gentrification.

Eight journalists are killed in 2006; many more, Tamil and Sinhalese alike, are threatened or attacked. Many choose exile.

The chairman of Bishops’ Conference calls on Sri Lankan Catholics to take the Blessed as a model to follow. Vaz brought his mission to the entire population without distinction despite the Dutch persecution. Let us pray for the miracle of canonisation, Mgr. Fernando says.

Torrential rain causes havoc, damages agriculture. Thousands of people are displaced and forced into temporary shelters. Army is mobilised for rescue operations.

The Central Environment Authority has banned widely used polythene products without offering people alternatives. Those who violate the new law could end up in jail.

Joint ventures of Colombo with China and India will see the construction of two coal-fired power plants in areas where people live off fishing and farming. Coal combustion is the biggest artificial source of carbon dioxide and causes acid rain in many countries.

In a meeting with Maithripala Sirisena, representatives of the Bishops’ Conference call on the government to sent food relief to Jaffna. They also want to know what happen to Jim Brown who disappeared four months ago. The government reiterates its commitment to a negotiated settlement with the rebels.

Parish church dedicated to the Apostle of the Orient in Wewala prepared itself throughout the year for the Saint’s feast Day. Parishioners reflect upon the importance of being missionaries and not just ordinary Christians.

The Christian community in the capital gathered yesterday for a prayer vigil in favour of peace. The bishop of Colombo urged the faithful to break the wall of silence that surrounds the war between Tamil rebels and the army.