President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali has established a Safety and Compliance Audit Team to conduct a comprehensive review of the safety and compliance standards governing marine vessels operating in Guyana, as part of the government’s ongoing efforts to strengthen maritime safety and prevent future tragedies.
The announcement comes as the administration continues to implement measures to enhance oversight and accountability in the country’s maritime sector following the recent MV Barima tragedy.
The president said the three-member team will comprise former Director-General of the Maritime Administration Department (MARAD), Dr Ivor English; Colonel Julius Skeete of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF); and Marine Officer and Surveyor of Ships, Captain Joseph Lewis.
According to President Ali, the members bring together extensive technical expertise, practical experience and specialised knowledge in marine administration, maritime operations, and the inspection and surveying of ships.
The team has been tasked with undertaking a comprehensive assessment of compliance with applicable maritime safety requirements governing vessels operating in Guyana.
It will also make recommendations to strengthen regulatory oversight, improve enforcement mechanisms and ensure that vessels, operators and the country’s regulatory systems adhere to the highest practicable standards of safety and accountability.
The establishment of the Safety and Compliance Audit Team forms part of a broader series of government interventions to improve maritime safety, reinforce public confidence in water transportation and help prevent similar incidents in the future.