Tue, Jun 30, 2026
Tue, Jun 30, 2026
Lifeguards, signage and safe zones ordered for all water facilities by week’s end
In the wake of the tragic drowning incident that claimed the lives of two young girls – Akira La Rose, 10, and Joylyn Jack, 11 – a stern call for immediate safety improvements was issued on Monday.
The drowning unfolded at Enchanter Creek along the Linden/Soesdyke Highway on Sunday, and now authorities have mandated that all water-based recreational facilities must put in place lifeguards, proper signage, and designated safety areas by the end of this week.
On Monday, a meeting was held at the Arthur Chung Conference Center, where Minister of Home Affairs Robeson Benn and other officials convened with creek operators and water activity providers.
The meeting, which also included numerous participants via Zoom, focused on addressing the glaring safety deficiencies in these facilities.
Minister Benn noted the need for urgency, stressing the inadequate safety measures at many locations.
He made it clear that operators must install trained lifeguards, clear signage, and designated children’s areas within a week. “I would like to see those things done this week,” Benn said.
He also criticized the current state of safety, citing the lack of basic safety infrastructure and the prevalence of inappropriate behaviours such as drinking and fighting.
He believes that businesses failing to meet these basic requirements should face closure. “That’s the only recommendation I have,” he said.
Minister of Culture, Youth, and Sport Charles Ramson also spoke at the meeting, calling for a moment of silence to honour the victims.
He noted that some facilities are operating without proper licenses and warned that non-compliance could indeed lead to shutdowns.
“There is no excuse for basic standards not to be in place,” Ramson asserted.
Ramson offered support for training and highlighted the need for a shift in safety culture.
He also pointed out that regulatory oversight is enforced by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Guyana Tourism Authority, emphasizing the importance of adhering to these regulations to avoid civil and criminal liabilities.
The meeting continued with exchanges and a strong call to action for all stakeholders to prioritize safety and implement the necessary measures to prevent future tragedies.