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Army re-commences financial support for Camp Groomes victims
… More injured soldiers come forward
There seems to be light at the end of the tunnel for the military men who were injured during the deadly explosion at Camp Groomes back in 2000.
More survivors have come forward to claim their benefits.
The Guyana Defence Force has committed to address the financial support of the former members. As the matter gains prominence in the local media, at least five more injured soldiers have come forward seeking financial benefits.
The Guyana Defence Force (GDF) in a press release recognized the negative experience of the Camp Groomes survivors and said it, “wishes to assure the claimants that their benefits are forthcoming.”
The army statement added , “that a proposal for the injured soldiers to be paid benefits as if they have already retired was approved by the Defence Board, however, a re- computation resulting in improved benefits for them, is currently being verified to ensure payment, shortly.”
“The further amendments, which were necessary to give them more money, resulted in the delay. Their benefits when paid will be effective from 2014-01-01,” the statement added.
The GDF says that high ranking officials met with the survivors yesterday and the delayed process was explained. “Additionally the ranks were assured that the Force is in touch with all involved agencies to have the process completed by Feb 28.”
Kaieteur News understands that the ranks were given an advance payment to take care of their expenses until they received the promised gratuitous payment.
The Force added that they are prepared to continue addressing the welfare of the soldiers until they are in receipt of their benefits. They also expressed regret for the inconvenience caused due to the delay, committed to making interventions towards ensuring a speedy conclusion of the matter.
Recently-appointed Chief of Staff Mark Phillips also made a gallant move to apologise for the inconvenience the men faced. The new army leader has vowed that his tenure will not elapse without him making every effort to address the issue.
The men were injured back in 2000 when the GDF’s ammunition bond exploded. The building housed hand grenades and alleged chemical bombs which had serious effects on the soldiers’ physical capacity.
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