Guyana’s Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) has welcomed the Government’s decision to establish a Commission of Inquiry (COI) into the MV Barima tragedy, describing it as a crucial step toward uncovering the truth, strengthening public confidence, and improving safety across Guyana’s transport sector.
In a statement issued on Sunday, the Chamber noted that the inquiry aligns with its call made on July 20, 2026, when it extended condolences to the victims and their families while urging a thorough, transparent, and evidence-based investigation into the circumstances surrounding the disaster.
The GCCI said it remains deeply conscious of the immense human toll of the tragedy and expressed continued sympathy for the victims, survivors, grieving families, and all those affected.
The Chamber also welcomed the appointment of the Commission’s members, highlighting their combined expertise in judicial affairs, marine engineering, maritime surveying and compliance, admiralty and maritime law, as well as maritime operations and security.
According to the GCCI, the Commission’s composition provides confidence that the inquiry will be conducted independently, credibly, and with a strong commitment to evidence-based findings.
The business body said the inquiry presents an important opportunity to establish the facts surrounding the tragedy, identify critical lessons, and reinforce public trust in the institutions responsible for ensuring the safety of the travelling public.
It further expressed hope that the Commission’s findings and recommendations will lead to stronger regulatory oversight, enhanced public safety measures, and continued improvements within Guyana’s transport sector.
Looking beyond the inquiry itself, the GCCI emphasized that the Commission’s true legacy will depend on the implementation of its recommendations, ensuring that the MV Barima tragedy serves as a catalyst for meaningful reforms that better protect all who rely on the country’s transport systems.
