Government provides support to MV Barima survivors, affected families

The government is providing immediate humanitarian and other assistance to survivors of the MV Barima tragedy, ensuring those rescued received medical care, clothing, food and transportation to reunite with their families.

Speaking to members of the media on Tuesday, Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips said the government acted swiftly to support those affected in the aftermath of the incident.

He explained that many of the rescued passengers had lost their belongings during the ordeal, prompting the government to provide emergency relief.

“What we did as a caring government, people were rescued and they had nothing. So we provided funds, and we provided clothing for them. We provided food for them. We provided transportation to take them to wherever they wanted to go and be comforted and reconnected with their families,” Prime Minister Phillips said.

The prime minister also confirmed that medical attention was provided to all survivors.

He noted at this time one individual is was being transported to hospital for additional treatment.

“One person has already been transported to the hospital, and medical attention has been afforded to everyone,” he noted.

Emphasising that the government’s actions were guided by compassion and responsibility, Prime Minister Phillips said the assistance provided was what any responsible administration would do in such circumstances.

“These are things that any government will do for its people. And we’re proud that we’re doing that,” he said.

The government continues to coordinate relief efforts and provide support to families affected by the MV Barima tragedy as investigations into the incident continue.

From the outset, blood was drawn from the captain and another crew member and tested.

They yielded positive results for cannabis. The results were immediately released to the public and they were arrested.

Additionally, from the time the authorities learned that more people were on the ferry than listed on the manifest, it was immediately released.

The government made it clear from both President Ali and Prime Minister Phillips that there will be complete transparency and accountability.

The government also made it clear that a separate investigation will be held to determine what really caused the ferry to capsize. (DPI)