National Vigil held for victims who perished in fire at Mahdia .

A National Vigil is being held for the victims of the Mahdia tragedy at the Umana Yana, Kingston Georgetown.

President Dr Irfaan Ali, in his remarks encouraged everyone to reach out with love, care and kind words in support of the grieving family and communities.

He noted that children lived together and were bonded as family and the loss they are facing at this time is beyond imagination.

The Head of State added that visiting the site and witnessing first-hand the first patient arriving at the Ogle Airport, and the aftermath of such a tragedy, was a heartbreaking experience and it is only through faith can the nation get by at this time.

President Ali acknowledged the contributions of the Pilots, medical teams of the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation and Mahdia Hospital, the joint services led by Police Commissioner Clifton Hicken and members of the community who assisted tremendously in the last 48 hours.

He encouraged continued support to the families of the children affected by the tragedy and promised to help them by taking responsibility and offer assistance in any way possible.

In the tribute to the lives lost, the children were described as kind and gentle, always smiling, joyful, willing and helpful, humble, brave and friendly.

The survivors of the fire who were discharged from the hospital attended the event and were tearful as the memories of their dorm mates were being honoured.   

Similar events are being held countrywide as persons mourn the children who suffered an imaginable fate in Tuesday morning’s fire.

The event saw the attendance of members of the government, members of the private sector and diplomatic Corp, family members of the victims along with students from various schools across Guyana and members of the public.

The hundreds in attendance were treated to songs and prayers put on by different groups honouring the memories of the victims.