THE Shipping Association of Guyana (SAG) has welcomed President Dr. Irfaan Ali’s decision to establish an independent Commission of Inquiry (COI) into the MV Barima tragedy, describing it as an important step towards uncovering the truth behind what is widely regarded as the worst maritime disaster in Guyana’s history.
In a statement, the association said the inquiry would help establish the facts surrounding the devastating incident, provide answers to grieving families and strengthen maritime safety to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
“We believe this investigation is an important step toward establishing the facts surrounding this devastating tragedy, providing answers to the affected families, and strengthening maritime safety for the future,” the association said.
The President announced on Saturday that he will today reveal the members of a five-person international and independent Commission of Inquiry, which will examine the circumstances leading to the capsizing and sinking of the MV Barima, as well as the rescue, recovery efforts and all related matters.
The commission is expected to determine whether negligence, misconduct or institutional failures contributed to the tragedy and recommend legislative, regulatory and operational reforms to improve Guyana’s maritime transportation system.
The MV Barima sank on the night of July 18 while en route from Georgetown to Port Kaituma with 116 passengers, 17 crew members and cargo on board. The vessel encountered difficulties off the Essequibo Coast before capsizing, triggering what has become the largest maritime search and recovery operation in Guyana’s history.
A multi-agency response involving the Guyana Defence Force, Guyana Police Force, Maritime Administration Department (MARAD), Civil Defence Commission (CDC), international partners, private vessels and volunteers has been underway since the disaster. As of Sunday, 73 bodies had been recovered, 69 of which had been positively identified by relatives, while search and recovery operations continue for those still unaccounted for.
President Ali has said the commission will conduct a thorough and impartial investigation into every aspect of the tragedy, including the vessel’s loading, boarding procedures, seaworthiness, maintenance history, compliance with maritime laws and safety standards, the conduct of the captain and crew, life-saving arrangements, weather conditions and the effectiveness of the search, rescue and recovery operations.
In its statement, the Shipping Association also expressed appreciation to the agencies and individuals who have worked tirelessly since the disaster struck.
It commended members of the Guyana Defence Force, Guyana Police Force, Maritime Administration Department, Civil Defence Commission, volunteers, private operators and all others involved in the ongoing search, rescue and recovery efforts.
“Their dedication, courage, and selfless service during this difficult time have been truly commendable,” the association said.
The organisation also extended heartfelt condolences to the families and loved ones of those who lost their lives, noting that it continues to keep them in its thoughts and prayers while standing in solidarity with everyone affected by the national tragedy.
The association further reaffirmed its commitment to supporting efforts aimed at enhancing maritime safety and helping to prevent similar incidents from occurring again.