Families of survivors and victims of the July 18 MV Barima tragedy continue to laud the government’s efforts with assistance provided throughout the search, recovery and bereavement process.
Toshao of Whitewater Village and representative for the Mabaruma Sub-region at the National Toshaos Council, Andre Cox, said the government responded swiftly to the needs of affected families from Region One.
Cox recalled informing President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali that he would not attend the National Toshaos Council Conference until his relatives and other residents affected by the tragedy had been rescued or recovered.
According to Cox, the president immediately assured him that transportation would be arranged for relatives wishing to travel to Charity, Region Two, to assist with the ongoing response.
Flights were subsequently organised to transport relatives from Mabaruma to Charity, while survivors were flown from the Essequibo Coast back to Mabaruma to reunite with their families.
He said the government also ensured families received accommodation, transportation, meals and other essential support while in Region Two.
“Everything was provided. We even had persons assisting with clothes, detergents and other necessities. I really appreciate everything the government has been doing throughout this process,” Cox said.
Cox added that financial assistance was also made available to affected families, while psychologists and counsellors continue to provide emotional support to those impacted by the tragedy.
In Whitewater Village alone, where five families were directly affected, Cox said three psychologists have been providing daily counselling and monitoring.
He also commended President Ali for maintaining direct engagement with survivors and bereaved families, while praising the collective efforts of government ministries involved in the response.
Jane Cox of Whitewater Village, whose brother survived the tragedy and whose brother-in-law, Sylvester Peters, lost his life, also expressed gratitude for the support her family received.
“The government provided everything. They supported us with the burial, funeral and every expense. We didn’t have to spend our own money. The government gave us full support, 100 per cent,” she said.
The government has continued to provide financial, logistical and psychosocial support to families affected by the MV Barima tragedy, while search, recovery and family assistance efforts remain ongoing.