More than 10 firms may have expressed interest in salvaging the MV Barima, as government moves ahead with the process to recover the vessel following the deadly maritime tragedy.
President Dr. Irfaan Ali, speaking during a press conference on Tuesday, said the expression of interest process for the salvage operation closed on Friday and the submissions are now being shortlisted.
“In terms of the salvaging of the vessel, I think on Friday the expression of interest would have closed. They have received a number of expression of interest. Those interests are being shortlisted now by the agency,” Ali said.
According to the President, companies that are shortlisted will then be invited to submit prices to carry out the salvage works.
“Those shortlisted entities will be invited to supply prices to have the vessel salvaged,” Ali said.
Asked how many expressions of interest were received, Ali said he did not have the exact figure but believed the number was “ten or more.”
“I don’t have the exact number. I think it’s ten or more. Don’t hold me to that,” the President said.
Ali said he was not aware of whether the submissions were separated between local and foreign companies. However, he noted that criteria had been set for the process and that firms submitted proposals based on those requirements.
“I know there was a criteria and companies would have made proposals in relation to that criteria,” he said, adding that the shortlisting process is intended to ensure that companies meeting the requirements are selected.
The planned salvage operation is one of the key steps being pursued following the MV Barima tragedy, which remains under national scrutiny.
The Commission of Inquiry (CoI) into the tragedy is already in place, with the team settling its procedures and work plan. The Commission is expected to begin its work on the ground in early September.
The President has said the government will rely on the work and recommendations of the independent COI before taking further action related to the tragedy.
