Speaker asks MPs to work together

The debate on the President's proclamation imposing a state of emergency in the country commenced in Parliament this morning.

By Sandun Jayawardana

The debate, which began at 10.30am, will continue till 5.30pm today.

Speaking prior to the commencement of the debate, Speaker Karu Jayasuriya told MPs that today's debate is of immense national importance.

"Therefore, it is the duty of all Parliamentarians, in accordance with fundamental parliamentary traditions, to allow all speakers to express their views without being disturbed. Given that, all citizens of the country will observe this debate, I seek the co-operation of all members of Parliament to conduct a productive debate without blaming each other," he stressed.

He noted that the time has come for our nation to re-double our efforts to heal all past and present wounds of our nation with a view to providing, social stability and prosperity to all communities and all citizens equally. "For this purpose, we must work together for promoting co-operation and understanding over confrontation and division, among all political parties and civil society organizations on issues of national interest involving security and economic development," he added.