–says EoI process still open

THE Maritime Administration Department (MARAD) has shut down what it calls false and misleading claims circulating about the salvage of the Motor Vessel (MV) Barima, insisting that no company or individual has been chosen to carry out the job.

In a press statement issued Friday, MARAD said reports suggesting a contractor had already been selected for the salvage operation are untrue and “designed to create public mischief.”

According to the agency, the actual procurement process is only in its early stages. MARAD opened a public Expression of Interest (EOI) on August 2, 2026, calling on qualified and reputable salvage companies to submit proposals for raising or removing the MV Barima.

The notice has been circulated widely, appearing in state and private print media as well as on MARAD’s social media channels. The window for submissions remains open until Friday, August 14, 2026.

MARAD was emphatic that no decision will be made outside of this formal procurement track.

The department said it remains committed to a transparent, fair process carried out in line with Guyana’s laws, and that any final selection will only follow the standard evaluation of proposals submitted through the EoI.

The statement, signed by the Maritime Administration Department, closes with the agency’s mission commitment: ensuring the safety of ships and offshore operations, protecting the marine environment, and administering the country’s ports and harbours “through a competent and committed workforce.”

Companies interested in bidding for the salvage contract can find further details through MARAD’s official channels, including its website (marad.gov.gy) and offices at Battery Road & Fort Street, Kingston, Georgetown.