Member of Parliament Dexter Todd today underscored families’ right to legal support for MV Barima victims amid “insufficient” finances by government for funeral arrangements.
Todd outlined the importance of allowing families affected by the tragedy to consult freely with legal counsel. He said families must have the right to seek legal representation to ensure their interests are adequately protected as investigations and legal proceedings continue.
Todd announced that the APNU has assembled a legal team to assist the families. Additionally, several other lawyers have expressed their willingness to form a group to represent the families’ interests. Currently, about 15 lawyers have indicated their intent to provide legal assistance for families seeking justice in court related to the tragic incident.
The number is expected to grow as investigations into the incident progress. Todd explained that some of the lawyers interested in forming a support group are not affiliated with any political party. They have chosen to operate independently, citing the lack of mobilization or direction from the Bar Association as a reason for forming their own collective to assist the families.
Currently, the government is offering $300,000 to families to cover funeral expenses. However, Todd contended that this amount is insufficient to fully cover funeral arrangements and related costs.
“Some of the lawyers who have indicated that they wish to form themselves in a group to assist are not going to be attached to a political party. They believe that the bar association has not said anything or mobilize a team,” Todd explained.
