(Kaieteur News) – The Guyana-Suriname ferry service remains suspended amid a growing disagreement over the safety and condition of the M.V. Canawaima, with Guyana maintaining that the vessel can continue operating while Suriname’s Maritime Authority (MAS) is demanding immediate repairs.

In a statement on Tuesday, the Government of Guyana said it has been in “constant and daily contact” with Surinamese authorities since the suspension in an effort to restore the vital cross-border service.

According to the Government, two technical inspections were recently conducted by maritime experts from both Guyana and Suriname. The inspections reportedly concluded that the Canawaima could remain in operation for another three months before being taken into drydock for maintenance. However, despite those assurances being provided in writing, Guyana said MAS has insisted that certain works which would normally be undertaken during drydocking must instead be completed immediately.