President Irfaan Ali has established a Safety and Compliance Audit team to review the standards governing marine vessels in Guyana.
This development comes almost two weeks after the capsizing of Mv Barima, which resulted in the deaths of more than 100 passengers.
See statement below:
As part of government’s continuing response measures to strengthen maritime safety and prevent future tragedies, I have established a Safety and Compliance Audit Team to undertake a comprehensive review of the safety and compliance standards governing marine vessels operating in Guyana.
The Team will comprise Dr. Ivor English, former Director-General of the Maritime Administration Department (MARAD); Colonel Julius Skeete, of the Guyana Defense Force; and Captain Joseph Lewis, Marine Officer and Surveyor of Ships. Collectively, they bring to this important task a wealth of technical expertise, practical experience and knowledge in marine administration, maritime operations and the inspection and surveying of ships.
The Team will examine compliance with applicable maritime safety requirements and make recommendations to strengthen oversight, improve enforcement and ensure that our vessels, operators and regulatory systems meet the highest practicable standards of safety and accountability.
