THE Guyana–Suriname ferry service has been temporarily suspended after Suriname’s Maritime Authority directed that repairs to the MV Canawaima be undertaken immediately, despite written assessments indicating that the vessel could continue operating until its scheduled drydocking.
According to a press release from the Ministry of Public Works, two recent inspections were conducted aboard the vessel by maritime experts from Guyana and Suriname.
“Both countries’ experts concluded that the vessel can remain in operation until it goes into drydock within the next three months,” the release stated.
However, the Maritime Authority in Suriname (MAS) reportedly insisted that certain technical matters, which were expected to be addressed during drydocking, be corrected immediately.
“Despite these assurances, which were provided in writing, the Maritime Authority in Suriname (MAS) insisted that certain matters which would have been addressed during drydocking should be undertaken immediately,” the ministry said.
The release further noted that responsibility for maintaining and drydocking the MV Canawaima rests with Suriname.
Meanwhile, the Guyanese and Surinamese boards remain in continuous communication and are working jointly to facilitate the prompt resumption of ferry operations.
The Canawaima Ferry Service acknowledged the disruption caused to passengers and other users of the service.
“Everything possible is being done to resume the service as soon as possible,” the release assured, while apologising for the inconvenience and thanking the public for its patience.