Guyana has welcomed the lifting of a ban on the MV Canawaima, with the ferry service set to resume operations from today.
The service was suspended following technical and structural compliance concerns raised by the Maritime Authority of Suriname (MAS). It will now continue on its regular schedule between Guyana and Suriname, with priority given on today to transporting stranded passengers.
In a statement, the Government said its representatives worked with Surinamese counterparts over the past several days to ensure all safety and structural requirements were met so the vessel could return to service as soon as possible.
“We were aware of the considerable inconvenience this temporary suspension had on the public in both countries and as such, ensured that everything that had to be done was done. The safety and wellbeing of the public was never lost at any time during this period. We thank all the relevant authorities and other stakeholders for their cooperation and support while this situation was being resolved. Most importantly, we thank the public for their patience during this time. As much as it was a terrible inconvenience, which we truly regret, their ultimate safety was top priority,” the statement said.
Guyana and Suriname will continue discussions on the subsequent drydocking of the MV Canawaima and a replacement vessel to ensure an uninterrupted ferry service, the Government said.
