Minister of Amerindian Affairs Sarah Browne-Shadeek has called for unity, reflection and community support as Guyana continues to mourn those who lost their lives in the MV Barima tragedy.

Speaking at the launch of this year’s Amerindian Heritage Month celebrations, which focus on Guyana’s development and Indigenous affairs, Browne-Shadeek said the observances take on added significance during times of national grief, stressing that the country could not mark the occasion without acknowledging the lives lost.

She said the tragedy “highlights the importance of unity in times of devastation”, while extending condolences to the families and loved ones of the victims.

“To the families and friends of the MV Barima tragedy, you are close to our hearts. You are in our prayers, and we stand by you every day,” the minister said.

Browne-Shadeek also expressed confidence that the soon-to-commence Commission of Inquiry would provide answers surrounding the tragedy.

“We have every confidence that the Commission of Inquiry will provide the necessary answers,” she said.

The minister stressed that national tragedies require communities to come together, drawing on the broader message of unity and togetherness reflected in Heritage Month.

“It’s important for us to come together. This is when we need community the most, and this is what this month means – community, reflection and unity in One Guyana,” she said.

President Dr Irfaan Ali had told reporters during a recent press conference that the independent Commission of Inquiry (COI) into the MV Barima tragedy would determine any subsequent action by his administration.

The President had stressed the need to allow the COI to carry out a “thorough, transparent and impartial” investigation and said he would not prejudice its work.

He added that the COI was finalising its procedures and was expected to commence on-the-ground work in early September.
He further assured families affected by the MV Barima tragedy that the government’s priority was their welfare.

He noted that the State had established the Heart Initiative, a long-term, multi-stakeholder programme to provide medical, mental health, spiritual and financial support to those who lost loved ones and survivors.

The MV Barima sank on the night of July 18 while enroute from Georgetown to Port Kaituma, with an estimated 179 passengers and 17 crew members on board. The vessel capsized in rough seas off the Essequibo coast, triggering the largest maritime search and recovery operation in Guyana’s history.

The tragedy claimed 73 lives, while 76 people were rescued and 30 remain missing.

(EXTRACTED FROM THE GUYANA CHRONICLE)