The Government of Guyana says it is working to restore the Guyana-Suriname ferry service as soon as possible, even as discussions continue with Surinamese authorities over the suspension.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the government said it is aware of public concerns over the disruption and assured citizens that officials have been in “constant and daily contact” with their Surinamese counterparts since the suspension began.
The disruption affects the ferry service between Guyana and Suriname, which operates through the Moleson Creek route.
According to the statement, Suriname is responsible for maintenance and drydocking of the M.V. Canawaima. The government said maritime experts from both Guyana and Suriname carried out two recent technical inspections, and both sides concluded the vessel could remain in operation until it goes into drydock within the next three months.
However, the Government of Guyana said that despite those written assurances, the Maritime Authority in Suriname insisted that certain matters expected to be addressed during drydocking should be undertaken immediately.
The government said it supports safe travel and maintains that public safety remains a priority, while also acknowledging the inconvenience caused to passengers and other service users.
Guyana said a proposal for an alternative vessel to operate the route was turned down by the Maritime Authority in Suriname. Despite this, the government said it is seeking to propose another alternative vessel to Surinamese authorities.
At the same time, engagements are continuing with the Maritime Authority in Suriname to determine whether the current service can resume, even on a short-term basis.
The government also said immigration services remain available for persons travelling to Suriname by small boats. Travellers departing Guyana are required to report to the immigration office at the Moleson Creek Terminal, while those arriving in Suriname must report to the Immigration Office in New Nickerie.
Persons departing Suriname are also required to report to the respective immigration offices.
The Government of Guyana said everything possible is being done to resume the service and apologised for the inconvenience caused to the public.
