MV Barima COI advances preparations for public hearings – Shadick

The Commission of Inquiry (COI) into the July 18 sinking of the MV Barima is finalising arrangements for the beginning of public hearings, with the public and media to be formally notified once the necessary procedures are completed.

Attorney Javid Shadick, Secretary to the Commission, told the Department of Public Information (DPI) on Thursday that the secretariat is currently addressing the legal and administrative requirements that will guide the proceedings.

“They’re working on checking the legal aspects,” Shadick said, explaining that the Commission is considering the various scenarios that may arise during the hearings.

He said once the arrangements are completed, a public notice will be issued.

This notice will outline the details and inform the public and media on how the hearings will be conducted.

The five-member Commission was sworn in by President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali to investigate the circumstances surrounding the capsizing and sinking of the MV Barima.

The Commission is chaired by Justice Godfrey Phillip Smith of Belize, with the other members being Dr Andrzej Jasionowski of Poland, Captain Hamada Fouda of Jamaica, Attorney Nyree Dawn Alfonso of Trinidad and Tobago and Rear Admiral Retired Hayden Pritchard of Trinidad and Tobago.

The investigation comes as authorities continue efforts to account for those affected by the tragedy.

To date, 76 passengers and crew members have been rescued, while 73 people have been confirmed dead and another 30 remain unaccounted for.

Meanwhile, the government has initiated efforts to recover the sunken vessel, with the Ministry of Public Utilities and Aviation, through the Maritime Administration Department, seeking a specialised marine salvage contractor.

The MV Barima is located in approximately 13 to 15 metres of water, with strong tidal currents, limited underwater visibility and challenging sea conditions presenting significant technical considerations for the salvage operation.

President Ali has also established the HEART Initiative, which brings together humanitarian assistance, psychosocial and trauma counselling, social services, spiritual guidance and other forms of support for survivors and bereaved families.

The commission is expected to submit its findings, observations and recommendations to President Ali upon completion of its investigation.

DPI