Catholic Bishops' Conference condemns Buttala attack

The Catholic Bishops' Conference of Sri Lanka (CBCSL) has condemned the brutal and inhuman attack carried out against the innocent civilian population in Buttala.

The statement issued by the CBCSL signed by its President Bishop Vianney Fernando, and its Secretary General Bishop Norbert M. Andradi that the CBCSL urged both the Government and the LTTE to effect a `cessation of hostilities to create the climate essential for peace'.

It said: "We wish to convey our deepest sympathies to the bereaved families and we implore God's mercy and healing to all the injured and the affected families.

We strongly urge both the Government and the LTTE that there be a cessation of hostilities without any further delay. We urgently appeal to all those involved in the conflict to come to realise that violence only begets violence giving way to the loss of so many innocent lives and so much pain, suffering and destruction. We must urgently return to the negotiating table, the only way that leads to lasting peace and prosperity for all."