Members of the Commission of Inquiry (CoI) into the deadly Mahdia Dormitory Fire will begin their site visit tomorrow, says Commission Secretary, Javed Shaddick.
“The commissioners and chairman have decided to return to Mahdia to have a site visit of the fire station, the dormitory, the hospital, and the Regional Democratic Office (RDC),” Shaddick was quoted by the Department of Public Information (DPI) as saying at a press conference on Monday in Georgetown.
The commission will also examine an alternative water source mentioned by a fire officer during testimony. Those who played a role in saving the children’s lives, including the dorm mother, will be present during the visit and may be questioned further if deemed necessary.
Moreover, Secretary Shaddick reported that Attorney-at-law Keoma Griffith, leading the evidence in the inquiry, has indicated that his final report submission to the commission will occur either on Friday or Monday, depending on the Mahdia trip.
The visit will come mere days after President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali authorized an extension of one month for the CoI to wrap up its work. Initially granted a two-month timeline, the COI was set to conclude in October.
Shaddick disclosed that 29 individuals have testified before the commission. The Madhia fire is responsible for the death of 20 children.
The Commission, led by Chairman, Major General (Ret’d) Joe Singh, includes Commissioners, Attorney-at-law Kim Kyte-Thomas and Chair of the National Toshaos Council, Derrick John.
