BOTH the Government and Opposition have extended condolences to the families of the children who perished in a fire in Mahdia, Guyana, on Monday.
Minister of Foreign and CARICOM Affairs Dr Amery Browne said, “The Government and People of Trinidad and Tobago stand with the Government and People of Guyana in the aftermath of the devastating fire in Mahdia. Prime Minister Dr Keith Rowley has been in direct communication with President Irfaan Ali.
“The Prime Minister has expressed condolences on the terrible loss of lives and has offered any assistance possible. As Minister of Foreign and CARICOM Affairs I have remained in regular communication throughout the day with my Guyanese counterpart Minister Hugh Todd. Formal letters of condolence are also being conveyed today from Port of Spain to Georgetown.”
Reports out of Guyana stated that the fire broke out just after midnight at Mahdia Secondary School Dormitory and due to bad weather conditions, emergency services struggled to contain the fire.
Education Minister Dr Nyan Gadsby-Dolly in a Facebook post said, “It is with sadness that we learnt of the fire at the Mahdia Secondary School Dormitory this morning. My heart goes out to the Guyanese people on this great loss and tragedy. The prayers of T&T are with Guyana this morning. May those precious young souls rest in peace.”
Opposition Leader Kamla Persad-Bissessar also said she was saddened to learn of the fire.
“As a parent myself, I can only imagine the pain and grief that the families of these children are feeling. My thoughts are with you during this difficult time, and I pray that you find the strength and courage to face the days ahead.
“I wish to express my deepest condolences to the families who have lost their loved ones as well as to the entire nation of Guyana. The people of Trinidad and Tobago stand together with our neighbours in Guyana during this difficult day. May the souls of the departed children find eternal peace.”
