–following MV Barima tragedy, PM Phillips
PRIME Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips, has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting every family affected by the MV Barima tragedy, establishing the full circumstances surrounding the incident and implementing the reforms necessary to strengthen maritime safety across Guyana.
During an interview on Jump Start on HJ 94.1 Boom FM on Friday morning, the Prime Minister acknowledged the deep grief being experienced across the country and said the questions being raised by families and citizens are understandable and deserve clear, evidence-based answers.
“Our people are hurting, and they deserve the truth.
“We are all in this together, and your government will continue to stand with the survivors, the bereaved families and the affected communities during this extremely difficult period.”
Addressing concerns about the age of the MV Barima, the Prime Minister explained that the government has pursued the modernisation of Guyana’s ferry fleet since 2020, including the acquisition of three new vessels.
He noted that older vessels remaining in operation are required to undergo scheduled maintenance, inspections and dry-docking. The MV Barima was dry-docked in 2024, underwent repairs and was subsequently deemed seaworthy. Its next scheduled dry-docking was expected during the latter half of 2026.
While the vessel was considered serviceable before the incident, the Prime Minister acknowledged the importance of accelerating the modernisation of the national ferry fleet and continuing to improve the safety and reliability of transportation services, particularly for hinterland and riverine communities.
As it relates to questions concerning drug testing and operational oversight, Prime Minister Phillips said that regulations governing the conduct and fitness of maritime personnel are already in place.
He emphasised that the management of the Transport and Harbours Department must ensure consistent compliance at every level; from management and supervisory personnel to captains, engineers and other crew members serving aboard vessels.
PM Phillips reiterated that the government will use the findings from the Commission of Inquiry to strengthen mandatory testing, port-clearance procedures, supervision, monitoring and accountability within the department.
The Prime Minister further indicated that expanded CCTV coverage and improved monitoring of wharves and loading areas will form part of the reforms being advanced, noting that security footage was used to assist investigators in reviewing the loading of the MV Barima and estimating the number of persons aboard.
He also lauded the Guyana Defence Force Coast Guard, the Guyana Police Force, other government agencies, local fisherfolk, private operators and international partners for their contributions to the search, rescue and recovery operations.
He said that the participation of fisherfolk and private operators represents the strength and solidarity of the Guyanese people during a national emergency.
Speaking on the establishment of a Commission of Inquiry, he explained that it will be independent and will be expected to carefully examine the circumstances surrounding the tragedy, identify weaknesses and recommend measures to prevent a recurrence.
The government, he said, will respect the rule of law, allow the inquiry to conduct its work independently and act upon its recommendations.
According to the Prime Minister, the inquiry is expected to consider the concerns being raised about passenger records, ticketing, loading, crew conduct, vessel maintenance, drug-testing procedures, port security, CCTV coverage, management systems and regulatory oversight.
“The purpose of this process is to establish the truth, provide answers to the families and ensure that the necessary lessons lead to meaningful change.”
He also used the opportunity to assure survivors and bereaved families that the government’s support will not end when the immediate response concludes.
Assistance, including psychosocial support, will continue to be provided as families mourn, recover and seek answers. He said the tragedy must ultimately lead to stronger institutions, safer transportation systems and greater protection for every person who depends on Guyana’s waterways.
“We are not perfect, but we will continue to listen, support our people and take the necessary steps to ensure that the recommendations arising from this tragedy lead to a safer and better Guyana.”
