The National Toshaos Council (NTC), which represents more than 250 Indigenous leaders, has joined calls for a comprehensive, transparent and independent review of the circumstances surrounding the deadly MV Barima incident which has left scores of children and adults dead. The NTC maintains that such an impartial review will examine not only the immediate circumstances surrounding the tragedy but also the broader systems, policies, regulatory frameworks, operational procedures, and maritime safety protocols to ensure lessons are learned and meaningful reforms are implemented to prevent a similar catastrophe from occurring again.

Further, the Council urged that every necessary measure be taken to provide comprehensive support to the affected families and survivors while adding that support should extend beyond the immediate aftermath of the tragedy and include sustained long-term assistance, including psychosocial care, financial and social support where appropriate, educational assistance for affected children, and any other interventions necessary to help families and survivors rebuild their lives with dignity.

However, as Guyana continues to mourn, the Amerindian leaders reaffirmed their commitment to standing with the affected families in their time of grief.