The Guyana Trades Union Congress (GTUC) extends its deepest condolences to the families who have lost loved ones in Saturday evening’s tragic sinking of the MV Barima. We stand in solidarity with the survivors, the crew, their union—the Amalgamated Transport and General Workers Union—and every family whose lives have been forever changed.

This tragedy demands more than sympathy. It demands accountability. Accidents do not simply happen. They are caused. They are the consequence of decisions made, warnings ignored, standards neglected, and responsibilities abandoned.

The GTUC has deliberately taken the time since Saturday evening to observe the unfolding tragedy, engaged workers, follow the rescue and recovery efforts, and assess the information that has entered the public domain before issuing this statement. Having done so, we are deeply disturbed by what has emerged.