President establishes Safety and Compliance Audit team to review maritime safety and standards

President Irfaan Ali has announced the establishment of a Safety and Compliance Audit team following the horrific sinking of the MV Barima ferry last week. In a release this afternoon, the President said the establishment of the team forms part of his Government’s continuing response measures to strengthen maritime safety and prevent future tragedies. The team will 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 Defence Force, and Captain Joseph Lewis, who is a Marine Officer and Surveyor of Ships. The President said collectively, the team brings a wealth of experience, technical expertise, practical experience and knowledge in marine administration, maritime operations and the inspection and surveying of ships to the task. 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. Earlier this week the President also established a Commission of Inquiry (COI) to probe the circumstances leading the sinking of the MV Barima and to make recommendations. Over 70 persons lost their lives in the tragedy.