National body established to aid in healing after MV Barima tragedy; Financial aid for families of victims and survivors being examined

President Irfaan Ali this morning announced the establishment of a national body to aid in the healing process following the MV Barima tragedy, which claimed the lives of more than 70 persons. The initiative titled; H.E.A.R.T, is a national initiative to coordinate, mobilise, and promote healing and support for survivors and families affected by the MV Barima tragedy. The President said the initiative will provide a safety net for support and compassion, noting that every family affected by the tragedy will receive support through the initiative. “This initiative will be overseen by trusted religious and civil society persons from across Guyana, led by Mr. Carl Stuart, it will carry the prayers of every faith, the hopes of every heart and the sacred traditions that bind us,” the President said. The Hope, Empathy, Aid, Resilience, and Trust initiative will be overseen by religious and civil society leaders. Meanwhile, the President also announced that the interim financial aid is being considered for the survivors and family of victims who perished in the tragedy. He made clear that such aid is not a compensation. He said Belizean Lawyer and former Foreign Affairs Minister, Eamon Courtenay, will workout the modalities for the financial assistance to the families “I wish to make it clear that this assistance does not constitute compensation for survivors and bereaved families. These measures embody a commitment that every survivor will be supported, every bereaved family will be treated with dignity. It is in that spirit that I ask every Guyanese stand together as one people,” the President said. The President said the country will never abandon its own during difficult times and will work hand in hand with families to ensure healing. The announcement by the President comes as search and rescue operations are continuing for scores of persons who are still missing following the sinking of the passenger vessel.