The government is reviewing contracts related to the Port Kaituma wharf project as part of the wider response to the MV Barima tragedy, with legal action being considered if evidence of negligence is found.
Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs Mohabir Anil Nandlall, SC, made the disclosure during Tuesday evening’s edition of his Issues in the News broadcast, where he outlined several measures being pursued across government in response to the July 18 ordeal.
He said that while the Commission of Inquiry (CoI) and criminal investigations continue, his chamber is examining the contractual arrangements for the wharf intended to accommodate the MV Ma Lisha at Port Kaituma.
The disclosure follows remarks by Minister of Public Works Bishop Juan Edghill, who recently explained that the MV Ma Lisha has not yet commenced service to Port Kaituma.
Minister Edghill had disclosed that the newly constructed wharf developed structural problems after significant movement of the surrounding soil, necessitating the rebuilding of sections of the facility.
AG Nandlall noted that the contractual review is part of a broader government response to the tragedy, which includes the ongoing police investigation, the CoI, while support remains from the Ministries of Health, Human Services and Social Security, and the HEART initiative established to provide immediate and long-term assistance to affected families.
“This will make further recommendations for more persons to be investigated,” AG Nandlall stated.
He also emphasised that the CoI will complement, rather than replace, the work of law enforcement agencies.
“The Commission of Inquiry cannot usurp the functional responsibilities of the state and the state agencies,” he said, noting that the inquiry will make findings and recommendations while criminal and civil liability remain matters for the relevant authorities and the courts.
The AG said investigations into all aspects of the tragedy remain ongoing, with the various state agencies continuing to carry out their respective responsibilities.