Melani Manel Perera

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.