Guyana Presidential Commission resumes MV Barima inquiry

The Presidential Commission of Inquiry into the MV Barima tragedy is scheduled to resume public hearings on November 10. Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall, stated that survivors and relatives of the deceased are expected to testify, with hearings likely continuing into December.

Previous testimony included 33 witnesses, such as first responders from the Guyana Defence Force and officials from the Maritime Administration Department. The commission is tasked with determining the cause of the incident, evaluating the search and rescue operation, and assessing whether maritime laws and regulations were followed.

In a separate clarification, the Commissioners addressed recent reports regarding the seaworthiness certification of government-operated ferries. The Commission stated it has made no determination on whether the MV Barima was exempt from safety certifications, noting that such issues remain under investigation. The Commissioners emphasized that statements made by counsel regarding the Transport and Harbours Act do not represent the official position of the Commission.