Investigative arm to follow up on tragic Mahdia fire – RCC

The Investigative Subcommittee of the Rights of the Child Commission (RCC) will be exploring the findings and information garnered on the deadly Mahdia fire which broke out on Sunday evening.
On Thursday, Chairperson Aleema Nasir penned in a statement that support will be offered to the families of the 19 victims who lost their lives, as well as those who were injured or affected.
“As the constitutional body with responsibility for oversight and monitoring of agencies and other bodies who are required to observe children’s rights, we are cognizant of the many questions and concerns that are naturally arising after this tragic occurrence. While there is no apparent cause and the pronouncement of the Guyana Fire Service is awaited, our investigative subcommittee will be following up to garner relevant information for the purposes of the mandate of the RCC. Support to the affected families and surviving children will also be offered.”
The Commission commended the significant outreach of the Education Ministry; Human Services and Social Security Ministry; the University of Guyana, and non-governmental organizations to provide immediate critical support to sorrowing relatives and traumatised students.
“Few words could realistically bring comfort to the family members and peers of the deceased children. Still, we trust that they would find comfort in knowing that they are surrounded by many who are empathetic towards them in this almost unreal situation.”
It added, “As more information becomes available, we shall endeavour to do our part in the assessment of this occurrence with the intention of ensuring that, as far as is reasonably possible, such a tragedy will never again be experienced by our children.”
The Commission offered its sincerest condolences and prayers for the parents, relatives, teachers, and friends of the students who lost their lives in the fire.
Thus far, the Guyana Police Force has confirmed that the fire was purposely set by an allegedly angry student who retaliated after her mobile phone was confiscated by the dorm’s mother and a teacher.
The Police statement also confirmed that, on the evening of the fire, there were 57 female students in the dormitory – a one-flat concrete building measuring about 100 feet by 40 feet, with several windows, all grilled, and five doors.
On Wednesday, the first victim of the fire was laid to rest in her home village of Karisparu, Region Eight (Potaro-Siparuni). Sabrina John was buried in the presence of her family and members.