PSC supports independent CoI into MV Barima tragedy

See full statement from the Private Sector Commission:

The Private Sector Commission (PSC) once again extends its deepest condolences to the families and loved ones of those who lost their lives in the tragic sinking of the MV Barima. We continue to mourn with the nation and stand in solidarity with all those whose lives have been forever changed by this devastating tragedy.

The PSC welcomes the Government of Guyana’s decision to establish an independent five-member international Commission of Inquiry (COI) into the sinking of the MV Barima, one of the darkest moments in our nation’s history. The Commission’s mandate to determine what happened, establish accountability where warranted, and recommend reforms to prevent such a tragedy from ever occurring again is both necessary and in the national interest.

The PSC believes that every family who lost a loved one deserves answers. Survivors deserve to know the truth. The people of Guyana deserve confidence that every lesson will be learned and that every recommendation necessary to strengthen maritime safety will be implemented.

This Commission of Inquiry must be comprehensive, transparent, independent, and guided solely by the facts. Its work should identify any operational, regulatory, institutional, or individual failures that contributed to this disaster while recommending practical reforms to strengthen passenger safety, emergency preparedness, vessel operations, and regulatory oversight across Guyana’s maritime sector.
The PSC also believes the private sector should play a meaningful role in supporting the Commission’s work. During the rescue and recovery effort, private companies, vessel operators, aviation providers, offshore operators, fisherfolk, divers, and volunteers worked alongside government agencies, bringing operational experience and technical expertise that can strengthen the investigation and help inform future reforms.

We pay tribute to the members of the Guyana Defence Force, including the Coast Guard, the Guyana Police Force, medical professionals, emergency responders, civilian volunteers, and all others who participated in the search and rescue operation. Their bravery, professionalism, compassion, and unwavering cooperation, supported by regional and international partners, reflected the very best of Guyana and demonstrated an extraordinary national response during one of the country’s most painful moments.

As the Commission begins its work, the PSC urges all individuals, organizations, and institutions with relevant information to cooperate fully. Establishing the complete sequence of events and understanding every contributing factor will be essential if Guyana is to build a safer and more accountable maritime transportation system.

This tragedy must become a turning point for our country.

The Private Sector Commission stands ready to support efforts to strengthen safety standards, improve regulatory oversight, modernize operational practices, and foster stronger collaboration between the public and private sectors. We are committed to working with all stakeholders to ensure that the Commission’s recommendations result in meaningful and lasting change.

The memories of those who lost their lives demand nothing less.