By Ken Ali
Trinidad and Tobago is one of the region’s leading providers of humanitarian support to Guyana after the dreadful MV Barima disaster.
While most other Caricom nations have expressed solidarity after the tragedy, T&T hurriedly mobilised air and sea crews to assist in rescue and recovery efforts.
Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar was also the first regional leader to extend condolences, stating: “We share in your grief.”
In a major operational measure, the Coast Guard deployed a vessel with a crew of 20, in addition to seven divers.
There were also heartfelt messages from the Caricom Secretariat and respective regional authorities.
Leaders of various countries said they were ready to assist.
The region’s rallying around Guyana is a practical and diplomatic expression of support after previous tension among some Caricom nations.
President Dr. Irfaan Ali and other Guyanese officials have voiced gratitude for the support.
Brazil and France are among non-regional countries that also provided operational assistance.
Brazil gave aerial support, which is working alongside T&T’s team in a large maritime search area.
France sent a 15-member specialist team, including 12 divers.
Rescue teams have been hailed for their courage and dedication.
The incident took place off Guyana’s Atlantic coast near to the mouth of the Pomeroon River.
At least 53 bodies have so far been recovered from the MV Barima wreck.
Several children, including infants, are among those who died when the vessel capsized last Saturday night.
Some children are members of a single family.
Families have been huddled in grief.
Around 76 people have been rescued so far.
Several safety protocols failed during the tragic ferry journey, including loading and documentation, vessel standards, and crew conduct.
There are reports of overloading of the vessel and a flawed passenger manifest.
The Guyanese authorities have pledged independent criminal investigations, along with accountability and transparency.
President Ali said the tragedy is one of the most painful moments in Guyana’s history.
He and other government officials have spent long periods with relatives of the deceased and missing, in a display of public grief, on-the-ground engagement, and operational measures.
Ali said “no efforts will be spared” to rescue passengers.
He praised the “extraordinary efforts” of the relevant State services and volunteers in the ongoing mission.
Efforts are being made to reposition the sunken MV Barima.
Three days of national mourning have been declared in honour of those who died.
