Suriname insists on suspension of MV Canawaima ferry service – Edghill

Guyana’s Minister of Public Works Juan Edghill Sunday night said the Maritime Authority of Suriname (MAS) has ordered the suspension of the MV Canawaima ferry that shuttles passengers, cargo and vehicles across the Corentyne River.

Mr Edghill said that decision was taken by the MAS, despite the view of experts of both Guyana and Suriname that the vessel could have continued operation until another three months

The ferry service has been suspended to a date to be announced after technical issues are addressed.

Numerous passengers at South Drain in Nickerie and Moleson Creek in Springlands have been stranded since Friday.

Following is the minister’s statement.

The Canawaima Ferry Service wishes to inform the public in Guyana and Suriname that the ferry service has been temporarily suspended.

In recent days two technical inspections were carried out by maritime experts from both Guyana and Suriname on the M.V. CANAWAIMA. Both countries’ experts concluded that the vessel can remain in operation until it goes into drydock within the next three months. Despite these assurances which were provided in writing the Maritime Authority in Suriname (MAS) insisted that certain matters which would have been addressed during drydocking, should be undertaken immediately.

It is important to note that the responsibility for maintenance and drydocking of the M.V Canawaima falls under Suriname.

The Boards on the Guyana and Suriname sides remain in close and continuous communication and are jointly working to ensure a prompt resumption of the ferry service.