Accra, Feb. 24, GNA - The bereaved families of the 2005 Good Friday fire at the PSC Tema Shipyard have thanked government for its assistance and support after the disaster. "We wish to thank the government and the Ministry of Harbours and Railways for your immense assistance in diverse ways," they wrote in a statement signed by their representative, Captain Vincent Quaye Laryea. A press release signed by Ahmed Ayuba, Special Assistant to the Minister of Harbours and Railways, Professor Christopher Ameyaw-Akumfi, said they were grateful for government's support to them in negotiations for the payment of compensation.

The families noted that apart from the sector Minister mourning with them, he had also ensured that government's bid to ameliorate the suffering of dependants came to fruition.

It said having assisted the families with the burial of their relatives, government also fulfilled its promise of assisting in the negotiation for the payment of compensation. On March 25 last year, fire engulfed some parts of the PSC Tema Shipyard resulting in the death of workers engaged in repair works on a vessel, MV Polaris.

A committee set up by government recommended the payment to the families of the victims by the owners of the vessel, GEK Shipping Company.

Government therefore requested the Legal Aid Board to represent the bereaved families in the negotiation for the payment of compensation. 24 Feb. 06