—Business chamber extends condolences, commends rescuers; says investigation is vital to strengthening maritime safety and public confidence.
The Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) has called for a thorough, transparent and evidence-based investigation into the sinking of the MV Barima, while extending condolences to the families of those who lost their lives and expressing solidarity with everyone affected by the tragedy.
In a statement issued on Monday, the Chamber said its thoughts remain with the families of those who perished, survivors now facing the difficult road to recovery, and relatives anxiously awaiting news of loved ones still missing.
The MV Barima capsized late Saturday night while travelling from Georgetown to Port Kaituma, Region One, after issuing a distress signal off the Pomeroon coast.
The tragedy triggered a massive search and rescue operation involving the Guyana Coast Guard, the Guyana Defence Force, emergency response agencies, private marine operators and volunteers.
As of Monday, dozens of passengers had been rescued, two deaths had been confirmed and search efforts were continuing for those still unaccounted for.
The Chamber also expressed appreciation to the Guyana Defence Force, the Maritime Administration Department (MARAD), emergency response agencies, private sector partners and volunteers involved in the ongoing rescue mission.
“Their swift response reflects the resilience, compassion, and unity of our nation during this difficult time,” the GCCI said.
The business body underscored the importance of reliable and safe transportation to Guyana’s economic development, noting that public safety and economic progress must go hand in hand.
“Reliable transportation is essential to the movement of people and goods, national connectivity, and economic progress. Economic progress and public safety must advance hand in hand. Public safety remains fundamental to protecting lives, supporting commerce, and sustaining investor confidence,” the statement said.
The Chamber also endorsed the Government’s decision to investigate the circumstances surrounding the tragedy, saying the findings should help strengthen maritime safety standards, improve regulatory oversight and support continuous improvements across the transport sector.
“The GCCI supports a thorough, transparent, and evidence-based investigation into the circumstances surrounding this tragedy,” the statement added.
The Chamber said it stands in solidarity with the victims, survivors and their families, urging the nation to honour those affected by renewing its collective commitment to safeguarding lives and ensuring public safety remains a national priority.
