Friday, May 21, 2021 AMANDALABelize Page 1

NO. 3462 BELIZE CITY, FRIDAY, MAY 21, 2021 (36 PAGES) $1.50 Borders Gruesome daylight opened for city murder tourists only

BELIZE CITY, Thurs. May of less than 24 hours. Last night, 20, 2021 Marquin Drury was fatally wounded At high noon today, a 19- in a drive-by shooting. year-old was shot multiple Unconfirmed reports are that times and left for dead in the Castillo was pursued by his assailant, Fabers Road Extension area. then executed in cold blood near a Stephan Castillo, the mechanic shop on Fabers Road, not victim of this most recent far from the police sub-station in that Belize City murder, is the area. second person to be shot to death in the city within a span Please turn to„Page 29 Unions stage funeral procession for corruption BELIZE CITY, Wed. May 19, 2021 On Tuesday, May 18, members of the Belize National Teachers Union (BNTU) and the Public Service Union (PSU) staged mock funeral BELIZE CITY, Thurs. May 20, 2021 processions — a symbolic form of Today Cabinet released an update protest that is a marked departure on matters that were discussed and from the blockades that had been set decisions that were made during its up on the previous day to prevent the regular session meeting, which took flow of traffic on roads and highways place on May 18, 2021. In that press countrywide. They marched along the release, the public was informed that streets, carrying a coffin, as they pretended to engage in funeral rites Please turn to„Page 30 Please turn to„Page 31 PM replies PGIA employees Belize seeks extension to unions stage walkout for bond payment

BELIZE CITY. Thurs. May 20, 2021 The government of Belize issued a press release on May 19, 2021, in which it informed the public that it had sent an official request, known as a “Consent Solicitation,” to the holders of Belize’s Super-bond, for an extension of the grace BELMOPAN. Wed. May 19, 2021 period for the May 20, 2021 coupon payment, which A letter was sent by the Prime was due today. Minister, Hon. John Briceño, to the The government is (See story on page 2) asking for an extension Please turn to„Page 31 Please turn to„Page 30 Man killed in drive-by Ongoing gang rivalry claims shooting (See story on page 29) life of Kirk Gordon (See story on page 29) Page 2 AMANDALABelize Friday, May 21, 2021 PGIA employees stage walkout (From page 1)

by Kory Leslie (freelance writer) the staff, even though they proceeded on strike, sufficient staff remained in LADYVILLE, Belize District, Wed. place to ensure that all aircraft that May 19, 2021 were inside of Belize’s air space On Wednesday, an unexpected either landed safely or exited Belizean walkout was staged by several air air space. Therefore, there were no traffic controllers and other staff disruption of services in that regard. members of the Philip Goldson At approximately 12:36 p.m., we International Airport (PGIA). Reports activated our contingency plan. This indicate that the Civil Aviation contingency plan ensured that the Department had to put into action a Central American Region Control contingency plan to ensure that Center would have insured that all en- services remained uninterrupted and route air traffic control services on schedule at the airport due to the would be provided, notwithstanding sudden act of protest orchestrated on we had staff at the air traffic control the premises of the PGIA. available to ensure that aircraft landed The walkout was reportedly staged safely at the PGIA. At approximately in response to the Department’s 12:51 p.m. we had sufficient staff in decision to give four air traffic both the air traffic control approach controllers letters of intended center as well as the aerodrome days now to the Labour Department incident. Had I known I would have disciplinary measures this week due control center to ensure that Belize had and the Minister of Labour, which been on the ground certainly, but to their failure to arrive at work on full control of all its air space. During would then allow for those public unfortunately I was not informed until time last Saturday. The executives of the event I have to reiterate that there officers at the office of the Civil it was actually happening, But, the Department interpreted this as an was no threat to safety during the event Aviation to proceed on whatever nonetheless, I reached out to the act of sabotage in support of the and there were no delays to any industrial actions that they want to members already, and I have informed ongoing industrial actions orchestrated aircraft,” Carter said. support,” Henry told Amandala. them that if it is that they’re going to by the PSU and Joint Unions to express According to Carter, there was a He went on to say, “Nonetheless it be disciplined in any way, shape, or their opposition to government’s meeting with the staff in early May at appears that is what was the situation form, that they present those letters to reduction of the salaries of public which the staff was informed that the there, and the staff decided that they the union, and we will have our officers and teachers. While 1st vice Civil Aviation Department was aware have the right, as the government itself Industrial Relations Officer along with president of the PSU, Dean Flowers, of the public officers’ right to partake has been saying, to engage in industrial my personal lawyer who has offered has publicly stated that Saturday’s in industrial action, but that the action, so why, then, are they his time to represent these individuals. events were in no way coordinated contingency plan must remain in place. considering disciplinary actions to be He has offered his services pro bono by the union, the union came out in The Minister then thanked once again taken against them?…It is very so that those officers will be properly full force, wearing their yellow shirts the members of staff who did remain unfortunate that I did not know of the defended if we need to go that route.” in support of the four employees who on-hand to ensure that services were “unjustly” sent on leave and the continued and to show that the PGIA employees who went on strike at has a backup plan to ensure safety and midday. continuity of operations when it is Belize adds Sinopharm to In the aftermath of what occurred, forced to deal with such unexpected the Ministry of Blue Economy and events. vaccine program Civil Aviation hosted a virtual press The Director opted not to address conference, at which Hon. Andre the contents of the letters he received Perez and the Director of the Civil from the four air traffic controllers by Dayne Guy Aviation Department, Nigel Carter, because, he said, “It is an internal outlined the sequence of events as matter that we need to clear up within BELMOPAN, Tues. May well as the department’s quick the government of Belize, with the 18, 2021 response in order to keep the airport’s Public Services Commission, with the Prior to receiving the operations running smoothly. Ministry of the Public Service and the World Health At the start of the conference, Hon Department of Aviation.” However, he Organization’s (WHO) Perez stated, “There was an attempt did say that, contrary to the sentiments emergency approval, the to disrupt air traffic services at the of the PSU, the Department is not Sinopharm vaccine was PGIA. I can report that services were engaging in a “witch-hunt” against already being widely used not interrupted, and flights continue to union members. across the globe. Doses of arrive and depart as scheduled. Our The president of the PSU, Mr. this vaccine, produced by team are fully aware of the impending Gerald Henry, told Amandala that he the Beijing Bio-Institute of threat of such actions, as we was not present at the PGIA on Biological Products Co. Ltd. (BIBP), attempt to secure COVID-19 vaccine understand that some of the staff are Wednesday because he was not will now be included in the vaccine doses for the citizenry. The Ministry members or are sympathetic to the informed of the protest due to “internal supply being used by the national of Health and Wellness also continues calls of the unions. That is their right political conflict” within the union. vaccination program in Belize. to encourage persons who are eligible and their prerogative, but as the Despite being left in the dark, Early in April, 2021, Belize to visit a healthcare center to be Ministry of Civil Aviation it is our however, Mr. Henry reached out to his received a donation of 10,000 doses vaccinated. The vaccination program responsibility to ensure that these members regarding the matter to show of the Sinopharm vaccine from the is currently at phase three and allows essential services remain his support. United Arab Emirates (UAE). Belize, for persons 50 and over, and persons uninterrupted and safe.” “From what I was informed, the however, delayed deployment of the living with a comorbidity, as well as The remainder of the discussion incident occurred because of some vaccine, while it awaited proper other authorized groups to get was then handed over to Mr. Carter, disciplinary action that was approval and authentication from the vaccinated. who explained that within a span of a considered by the office against some world’s leading health agency. The ministry further reiterated the few minutes, notifications came from of the workers there, because they had Since Sinopharm’s inclusion on the importance of following set protocols. air traffic control officers, members arrived at work a few hours late, from World Health Organization’s list of Despite the Center for Disease Control of the air nautical management unit and what I was told. The management authorized vaccines for emergency and Prevention’s new members from the air traffic control there, from what I gather, thought that use, Belize has incorporated this recommendation that fully vaccinated tower respectively that they would be to be in line with the industrial action vaccine into its immunization regime. persons no longer be required to wear going on strike. Carter commended, that the Public Service Union has been In a release from the Government of masks, a press release from the Health however, those air traffic controllers engaged in and, of course, if that’s the Belize Press Office, GoB announced Ministry noted that the local Public who remained at their posts to ensure case, then they are acting outside of that, starting Tuesday, May 18, the Health Regulations in Belize still a continuation of services. their authority to discipline our public Ministry of Health and Wellness will require all persons to wear masks. “What we must commend is the officers. Because we have already offer this jab as an option. Additionally, all are advised to manner in which the air traffic submitted our twenty-one day notice Belize continues its communication maintain social distancing and wash controllers managed the situation — over thirty-eight days or thirty-nine with international partners in an and sanitize hands as often as possible. Friday, May 21, 2021 AMANDALABelize Page 3 Min. Fonseca: schools safe despite virus outbreak

by Kory Leslie (freelance writer) is the only one who has exhibited Fonseca states that while the some mild symptoms. The others are outbreaks are alarming, the BELIZE CITY, Wed. May 19, 2021 asymptomatic. Again there, the Ministries aren’t too worried about The Minister of Education, Hon. students have all been isolated. keeping the outbreaks contained, Francis Fonseca, spoke to members Again, all of their classmates have despite having given the green light of the media on Wednesday via a been tested, all of the teachers at to 352 schools to resume in-person virtual conference to give an update Wesley Lower Primary School have classes. Instead, he opted to “assure on the current COVID-19 outbreaks been tested, everyone else has tested the public and assure our parents and in two of Belize City’s primary negative, but again, it was the rapid our students in particular that [the schools. test that has been done. The PCR test, ministry is ] confident that schools “The update I have, really, is that they are still awaiting the results of remain safe as long as the protocols in terms of Queen’s Square, one the PCR test.” are adhered to.” teacher tested positive. All of the The Minister also referenced a In addition to these protocols, the other teachers at the school have been press release that was published by Minister is also calling on parents tested, as well as the students who the Ministry wherein they assured the and the general population to do their came into contact with that particular public that they are working with the part. Therefore, parents who have send their children to school until they teacher. Everyone has tested Ministry of Health and Wellness contracted COVID-19 or are showing receive a negative test or are free of negative; that teacher is in isolation, (MOHW) to monitor the situation. signs of being sick are asked not to their symptoms. but as I understand it, what has been done is the rapid test, so the rapid test has come back positive. The PCR test has been taken, but the results are KHMHA Workers Union stands with Joint Unions still pending. I think they expect to get that PCR test sometime today,” explained Fonseca. BELIZE CITY, The union also stated that they share Fonseca went on to say, “I think Wed. May 19, the view of the Joint Unions, that other it’s important for the public to 2021 options should be explored before the understand that that teacher, just as is On Tuesday, slashing of salaries is considered. the case with Wesley Primary School, the Karl Heusner “These actions can only be done the contact tracing established that Memorial with open-minded and honest that was linked to the Princess Casino Hospital dialogue between government and the outbreak. The teacher has a relative Authority joint unions to forge a way forward who works there. In the case of Workers Union that will benefit all,” stated the Wesley Primary School, the lower (KHMHAWU) release. division, there were four students issued a press They are demanding that the who tested positive, I think, ranging release in which government fast-track the structural in ages from age 12, 10, 8 and 7. As I the union changes and enactment of legislation understand it, the 7-year-old student expressed its needed to implement the promised support of the good governance reform. Joint Union Negotiating Team that is The release states, “It is undeniable currently spearheading a collective that the reckless, corruptive and resistance by public workers to nepotistic behavior by both the PUP government’s salary cuts and and UDP has been detrimental to increment freeze. Belize’s growth and is directly The release stated that while those responsible for the current financial workers who belong to the situation we find ourselves.” KHMHAWU will not face the 10% The union calls on the government salary cut, they “recognized the to fulfill their campaign promise of devastating consequences such an good governance, accountability, and imposition will have.” transparency. “We’re not there yet,” says Dr. Beer by Dayne Guy “We are not here to let down our guard,” said Beer, who added, “[I am BELIZE CITY, Wed. May 19, 2021 not to stop] using face masks because Last week, the Center for Disease I am fully vaccinated.” She also noted Control and Prevention (CDC) issued that the vaccine only protects the a release which stated that Americans inoculated from severe illness and are no longer required to wear masks hospitalizations, but there is no if they are fully vaccinated. The CDC guarantee that vaccinated persons will is a United States federal agency and not become infected. Beer explained does not exercise any authority over that even a fully vaccinated person can Belize’s public health regulations. get infected and may not show any When asked about the CDC’s new signs or symptoms, but may still recommendation, Dr. Natalia Beer, the transmit the virus. She emphasized that Ministry of Health and Wellness’ vaccinated persons must be mindful Technical Advisor, stated, “Belize is of the unvaccinated population and the not the US… We have to look at the risk associated with removing face local context when making decisions.” masks. Beer further noted the key differences “Why risk the gains we have so between the two countries. The United far?” continued Dr. Beer. The States, being a developed country, has effectiveness of wearing masks and easier access to vaccines. Belize practicing social distancing has been cannot readily receive the vaccines it proven through scientific research, and requires. As a result, regulators of the Ministry of Health believes it public health must not be hasty in the should remain a focal point in the decision-making process. COVID-19 recovery efforts. Page 4 AMANDALABelize Friday, May 21, 2021 WCS unveils conservation plan

The general mission of impacts of climate change and Maya Forest Corridor (MFC), and the WCS is to conserve resilience.” supporting national development and protect the The WCS will also focus on strategies, including Belize Horizon interconnected lands reducing wildlife trafficking by 2030, and Belize’s Growth and and waters of Belize arming customs and other border Sustainable Development Strategy. through science, control officers with forensic tools The report goes further to provide conservation, action, such as Xylotron for timber in-depth research findings regarding education, and efforts to identification and rapid DNA test kits the protection of Belize’s marine inspire people to value to identify shark and fish species so systems, the protection of wildlife nature. that CITES-listed species can be and support of resource management, The 2019-2020 pinpointed. The Society also plans and protection of fisheries resources report highlights the to continue to advocate for the passing through innovation. It also WCS’s plans to target of the Trade in Endangered Species illuminated the society’s previous sustainable natural (CITES) Bill 2021. Finally, the report efforts to expand the role of women resource management, also highlights the WCS’s objective in fisheries, and to protect the which will be done to target improved protected area critically endangered river turtle by through their continued management by pursuing the leveraging the Glover’s Reef support of the designation of an additional 672 Research Station and including other implementation of the square kilometers of marine areas as institutions and stakeholders in new Fisheries replenishment zones, formalizing the collaborative action. by Kory Leslie (freelance writer) Resources Act and through informed preservation of our fisheries BELIZE CITY, Thurs. May 20, 2021 resources, based on years of data The Wildlife Conservation Society collection. The second objective in Ambassador Fuller presents (WCS) has published their Program the plan is to strengthen ridge-to-reef Report for 2019-2020, in which the management, which will be achieved credentials to Sec. Gen. of the UN organization presents a plan of action by “increasing our scientific for the preservation of Belize’s understanding of coastal systems, natural resources in the years ahead. considering interconnected local Senior Students during a 2nd Pandemic Year

by Kory Leslie (freelance writer) deadline for registration that I think is coming up very shortly, and BELIZE CITY, Wed. May 19, 2021 everything is in place. The structure During this week’s virtual press is in place — that’s the regional conference, the Minister of structure that we have agreed to, and Education, Hon. Francis Fonseca, our local registrar is working to discussed the Ministry’s efforts to ensure that all the schools have by Dayne Guy ceremonial, since, as a preventative conduct this year’s graduation downloaded all the necessary measure taken to ensure a safe ceremonies and administer CXC documents for the SBA’s and so, and UN Headquarters, New York, USA. working environment during the exams to 4th form students while once I think that is going fairly well. I think Tues. May 18, 2021 pandemic, Fuller had presented his again ensuring adherence to COVID- last time I checked, only two schools On Tuesday, May 18, H.E. Carlos official credentials via the UN’s e- 19 protocol — just as it did in the had not finished downloading and Fuller presented his credentials to portal system on March 31, 2021. summer of 2020, a few months after submitting the relevant information in H.E. Antonio Gutierrez, the Secretary Fuller was a Chief Meteorologist the COVID-19 pandemic first hit terms of the SBA’s, which is very General of the United Nations (UN), with the National Meteorological Belize. important to our students.” at the UN headquarters. He now Service of Belize and has held many While he did not discuss He also spoke about the effects of assumes the role of Belize’s new roles within the Caribbean Community preparations for graduation the pandemic as well as the impact Permanent Representative to the and United Nations frameworks. ceremonies in detail, Minister that the ongoing strike being carried United Nations (UN) in New York He currently serves as the Fonseca did mention that the Ministry out by the Belize National Teachers City, and succeeds Senior Counsel International and Regional Liaison of Education has already established Union (BNTU) is having on students Lois Young in the position. Officer of the Caribbean Community a protocol that will be used to guide seeking to sit the CXC exams in the Upon ceremonially receiving Climate Change Centre. Through this the manner in which such ceremonies upcoming months. Hon. Fonseca said Fuller’s credentials, the UN initiative, he works to make the region are conducted this year. “There is that roughly 2,500 students have Secretary General highlighted the more resilient to climate change and established protocol agreed upon registered to sit the CXC exams this important role Belize has played in variability. between the ministry and managing year thus far. In order to fill in the the UN system framework as an Of the many projects in which he authorities regarding graduation gap created by those teachers on advocate for small-island and low- has been involved, a notable one is protocol, so it differs from managing strike, however, monitoring officers lying developing states impacted by the “1.5 to stay alive” campaign, authority to managing authority, but had to step in to assist those students climate change and rising oceans. which highlights the importance of there is an established protocol for in preparations. Gutierrez said, “Belize has been limiting the increase in global graduation,” Hon. Fonseca said. “It’s unfortunate that the strike has extremely active in the United temperatures. The campaign reminds In regards to preparations for the affected some of that, but we have Nations, assuming your very the public that an increase of just 1.5 CXC exams, he explained, “… in monitoring officers who have taken important leadership in relation to degrees could have a tremendous and terms of external examinations like the slack, and it is unfortunate that small-island developing states, irreversible impact on ecosystems CXC, again that has been ongoing for students who are in fourth form, down climate change and many other and terrestrial and marine areas. several months and there has been a to their last two weeks, have gotten dossiers. With your presence, I Fuller has also worked over 18 challenge in terms of ensuring that caught up in the strike issue and some believe that engagement will only years with the Government of Belize. students have access to the material of their teachers were not present for increase.” He held the position of Belize’s Chief they need to complete their SBA’s these final two weeks, where they At the ceremony, Ambassador Climate Change Negotiator from the and to take their CXC examination, needed support to finalize their Fuller assured the UN Secretary year 1990 to his retirement in 2008. but that is a regional discussion that’s preparation for CXC’s and SBA’s, General that in his capacity as Some of his other notable taking place. So, the deadlines have but monitoring officers who we have Belize’s Permanent Representative to achievements include being honored been changed over the past few in place have stepped in and are the UN, he would continue to support with the George Price Lifetime months, over the past four, five supporting their efforts, so we are the UN system in its efforts to address Award for Emergency Management months, the deadlines have been confident that that will proceed the pressing issue of climate change. and the Officer of the Order British extended. So, I think CXC has a new unimpeded,” he said. This event held was solely Empire (OBE) for public service. Friday, May 21, 2021 AMANDALABelize Page 5

Step up and send your best, Social Partners

With Campaign Financing legislation coming on-stream, the Business Process Outsourcing, (BPO), commonly referred to as Elections and Boundaries Commission to be less under the call centers, is like a windfall, because most of us didn’t expect control of the ruling party, redistricting of Electoral Divisions on it to be performing so well. the horizon, and implementation of important UNCAC provisions As we noted in an editorial some months before the pandemic, now in sight, Belizeans should expect our present system to Belize’s economy would be in huge trouble if we didn’t have this deliver more for the people and less for the party that wins industry, and it has been suggested that this is an area where we control of government. might want to invest more. However, Business Process Over the years our political leaders have been unwilling to Outsourcing is even more fragile than our number one industry, make laws that curtail their power, and they have disrespected tourism, so we have to put in the effort to keep our competitive existing laws, so to make these legislated advances bear fruit for advantage. the people we are depending on our social partner organizations Some estimates indicate that there might be as many as 5,000 to carry the load. They have been at the fore; now they will have persons employed in call centers across Belize, and with the to do more. average worker (according to the website salaryexplorer.com) Ambassador David Gibson, the Coordinator of the think thank, earning BZ$1,540 per month, inclusive of housing, transport Centre for Strategic Studies Policy Analysis and Research and other benefits— all of which enters the country as US dollars (CSSPAR), has issued a call for strong representation of the social — this is an industry that is approaching cornerstone status in partner organizations on the Integrity Commission, the Elections our economy. Based on the unofficial statistics, the fledgling and Boundaries Commission, the Public Service Commission, BPO industry is bringing in more than US$45 million in foreign and the proposed Public Contracts Commission. exchange. Earlier this month the Belize Peace Movement (BPM) announced The salaries most of the employees in the industry are earning that the organization has been accepted as a member of the are not fantastic, but they are a lot better than the $5 minimum UNCAC Civil Society Coalition and it will be stepping up its efforts wage that the new government is aspiring to legislate. To hold on in the fight for good governance. A BPM release said the to and increase our share of the industry we will need a high level organization is about to “intensify its efforts toward making the of management and a versatile, increasingly educated talent pool, tenets of: accountability, transparency, consultation and above because it is very competitive out there. all adherence to the rule of law, the norm and not an aberration, Ms. Naweed Chougle, in the 2017 story, “The Future of the in Belize.” Call Center Industry in India”, which was published in Trak.in, a Key to the successful enforcement of whistleblower protection leading business and tech news blog in India, noted that for and political campaign finance various reasons business outsourced from the UK and the US laws, and functioning of our was declining in that country, one of those reasons being that important oversight bodies, are the British and Americans had some trouble with the Indian the representatives selected by accent. the social partner Another reason for the decline in business, she noted, was organizations. In the selection that the weakened economies of the UK and the USA at that Amandala(estb. 1969) of representatives the social time had led companies in those countries to hire at home. In Business and editorial offices: partner organizations have not the UK and US, “employing local people has become a priority 3304 Partridge Street, Belize always sent their best talents. over cutting costs to up to one-fifth by outsourcing to India,” she City, Belize, Central America A glaring failure was the is printed twice weekly by the said. Ms. Naweed also noted that inflation and salary increases Amandala Press. churches forwarding a senator had driven up the cost of doing business in India, and that meant Telephones: 501-280-4703/ whose stated purpose was to their cost advantage was diminishing. 501-202-4477 maintain peace in the upper Ms. Blake Morgan, in the story, “Will Call Centers Still Take house. Calls in 10 Years”, which was published by Forbes magazine in Certain criteria must be met, 2018, outlined three scenarios: one, they will exist, still take Publisher: Evan X Hyde be mandatory, in fact, when calls, because people trust human beings more than they trust Editor-in-chief: Marco Lopez these organizations select an machines (74% of people contact customer service via phone, Business Manager: Jacinta Hyde individual to represent them more than they use any other channel); two, they won’t exist, Make-up & Design on government bodies. In because as digital technology grows, a greater number of Artist: Andrea Dennison respect to the Senate, the customers will care more about getting their business done Executive Secretary: Odessa elected parties can play their quickly than how it gets done; and three, they will evolve to political games, but in the include artificial intelligence systems which will process a Robinson Smith upper house the social partner customer’s past business and interactions before forwarding Compositor: Tyra Welch organizations must choose them to a person who can address the problem right away. Lithography: Clive Smith senators who know our Tim Pickard, in his 2015 story “The Future Call Center: 10 Printers: Kent Brooks Constitution, know our history, Predictions for the Next 10 Years”, published by Vonage, at the and are knowledgeable about website vonage.com, said that by 2025 the physical center will all the financial affairs of our give way to remote working, and that the call center workers will Please email Correspondence: nation. have to be “super agents” with excellent interpersonal skills. Mr. [email protected] Pickard said the call center worker will need more than “excellent Call Centers communication skills, they’ll need analytical problem-solving Advertisements to: skills, project management – and in some cases, technical training, [email protected] shine in Belize in order to understand the finer details of the product or service.” As per their interpersonal skills, Mr. Pickard said consumers Mailing Address: Of all the industries in Belize, demand great service, that studies show 50% of customers in Amandala Press the most pleasantly surprising the UK will buy “from a competitor as the result of poor customer 3304 Partridge Street has to be the call centers, service”, and 44% of US customers would do the same. c/o P.O. Box 15, which are just about the most The jobs aren’t high-end for most of the workers, but in an Belize City, Belize important provider of jobs for economy that isn’t doing great things at this time, call centers our young people at this time. are the new Williamson’s and Nova. Amandala’s website: amandala.com.bz Page 6 AMANDALABelize Friday, May 21, 2021

STRENGTHENING OF TAX ADMINISTRATION PROJECT New SI REQUEST FOR EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST

Consulting Firm to Design, Implement and Execute a Countrywide Public Awareness and Marketing Campaign amends

Institution: The Ministry of Finance (MOF) Country: Belize curfew Project: Strengthening of Tax Administration (STA) Abstract: Consulting Services – Consulting Firm to Design, Implement and Execute a comprehensive Public Awareness and Marketing Campaign before, during and after the implementation of the NEW procured Integrated Tax Administration System (ITAS). Loan No.: 4839/OC-BL Deadline: May 28, 2021, Belize Local Time

The Government of Belize (GOB) has received financing from the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) for the execution of a five-year tax modernization project entitled “Strengthening of Tax Administration” (BL-L1031). The main beneficiaries of the Project are: (a) the Government, which will have more revenues to implement its public policies; (b) taxpayers, who will have more support and a digital environment to fulfil their tax obligations; and (c) the population, from the government policies implemented. Through this project, the Belize Tax Service (BTS) Department has procured a Modern Integrated Tax Administration System (the Revenue Management System (RMS)) and is presently in the implementation process. This new system will be used in the management of the Belize Tax Administration. The consulting services (“the services”) includes the contracting of a consulting firm for a period of twelve (12) months to Design, by Dayne Guy Implement and Execute a comprehensive Public Awareness and Marketing Campaign for the promotion of the new procured ITAS system. Informing the public that this new system is intended to allow for the BTSD to accomplish its future Business Model BELMOPAN, Tues. May 18, 2021 Principles which aims to be a fully automated process with seamless integration with other entities, data driven and taxpayer centric. The new ITAS system focuses on improving services which will allow for a 360 view of a taxpayer tax account to be both In Statutory Instrument (SI) No. 54 face to face and online, improve compliance and increase revenue collection. The New ITAS system will be taxpayer centric which of 2021, which was gazetted on will allow taxpayer to access and manage their tax account online. The main activities of the consultancy includes: Tuesday, May 18, 2021, some key 1. Develop, and Map out the communication strategy and action plan for the Pre, During and Post ITAS implementation amendments were made to the 2. Design and Develop various communication materials targeting internal and external stakeholders, using different and relevant country’s COVID-19 regulations. modes of communication in a continuous and progressive phased-out approach consistent with the Pre, During and Post ITAS Implementation. Under the new SI, which is the most 3. Production, Broadcasting and Dissemination of various communication materials targeting internal and external stakeholders in recent of eight such COVID-19- a continuous and progressive phased-out approach consistent with the Pre, During and Post ITAS Implementation. related Statutory Instruments that 4. Evaluation of the effectives of the public awareness communication campaign have been passed this year, there has The Consulting firm should have a minimum of five (5) years’ experience in the following areas below (* are a must): been a partial relaxation of some *Development of change management campaigns COVID-related measures. *Advertisement campaigns *Audio-visual production The curfew period that extends *Graphic design from 10:00 p.m. to 5:00 a.m., which Educational campaigns previously was in effect from Sunday Communication planning to Thursday, is now only in effect Strategic communication from Sunday to Wednesday. On Communications marketing Digital content creation. Thursday, the curfew period will The firm should prove its expertise in conducting large communication activities, at national and local level, and conducted at least now start at midnight (rather than two PR campaigns of similar type in the last 5 years in Belize or in the Caribbean, the firm should have specific experience in at 10:00 a.m.) and last until 5:00 a.m., least one similar assignment in Belize for citizen engagement and outreach activities in the past five (5) years, and experience in which means the curfew hours on organizing events (workshops, trainings, conferences targeting different groups: citizens, national and local public administration, Thursday will be identical to the mass media, NGOs etc.). curfew hours on Friday and Saturday The Ministry of Finance now invites eligible consulting firms (“Consultants”) to indicate their interest in providing the services. Interested eligible Consultants must submit an Expression of Interest providing information demonstrating that they have the of each week. required qualifications and relevant experience to perform the services (brochures, description of similar assignments specifying Additionally, the SI makes start and end dates of assignments, experience in similar conditions, availability of appropriate skills, etc.). The term “consultant” amendments to the mask-wearing means a legally-established professional consulting firm or an entity that may provide the services. protocols. Whereas only drivers of Expression of Interest package should contain: cars were exempted from wearing (i) Document explaining interest, experience, and competence of the consulting firm. (ii) Firms experience in the assignment of similar consultancy services during the past five years. Description of similar assignments masks while driving, the new SI specifying start and end dates of assignments. includes persons riding a motorcycle, (iii) Firms evidence of past jobs. golf cart or similar motor vehicle in (iv) Two references the group of motorists who will not (v) Proof of nationality: Copy of certificate of incorporation and information of shareholders of company specifying the shares be required to wear a mask while owned by each respective shareholder of the company. driving. The SI states, “a person shall Additional documentation required for National Consultants: (vi) Copy of Certificate of Good Standing from Belize Company Registry not be required to wear a face mask (vii) Copy of Certificate of Good Standing from the Social Security Board or other face (nose and mouth) (viii) Copy of Certificate of Good Standing from the Belize Tax Service covering if that person is driving (ix) Current Trade License alone or driving with members of the Consultants will be selected in accordance with the procedures set out in the Inter-American Development Bank: Policies for the same household in a motor vehicle.” Selection and Contracting of Consultants financed by the Inter-American Development Bank (GN-2350-15, May 2019 edition) and is open to all eligible consultants as defined in the IDB policies. The Ministry of Health and Consultants may associate with other firms in the form of a joint venture or a sub-consultancy to enhance their qualifications. For Wellness urges the public to follow the purpose of establishing the short list, the nationality of a firm is that of the country in which it is legally incorporated or all Public Health Regulations and constituted and in the case of Joint Venture, the nationality of the firm appointed to represent it. encourages all to remain at home A Consultant will be selected in accordance with the Selection based on the Consultants’ Qualification method set out in the IDB unless conducting essential business. Consultant Policies. The selected consulting firm will be selected based on its experience and competence relevant to the assignment and most appropriate qualifications and references. Only the highest ranked consulting firm from the short-listed firms will be notified and will be asked to submit a technical and price proposal. Further information can be obtained at the address below during office hours Monday to Friday 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Expressions of interest must be delivered via direct mail or e-mail at the address indicated below by 4:00 p.m. on Friday May 28, 2021. See news in the Interested consulting firms are asked to submit their expression of interest via e-mail to [email protected] marked STAP- Consulting Firm to Design, Implement and Execute a Countrywide Public Awareness and Marketing Campaign in the making? subject header, or submit on or before Friday May 28, 2021 to the following address: Director General Belize Tax Service SPORTS Strengthening of Tax Administration Project ACCIDENTS Charles Bartlett Hyde Building Mahogany Street, Belize City SOCIAL ISSUES Tel: 501-222-5114 CRIME For clarifications kindly contact:

Project Coordinator Call us at: Project Executing Unit Strengthening of Tax Administration Project 280-4703 Charles Bartlett Hyde Building Mahogany Street, Belize City 222-4838 Tel: 501-222-5114/E-mail: [email protected] Friday, May 21, 2021 AMANDALABelize Page 7 Amandala endorses Dominique Noralez for Commonwealth Youth Council

BELIZE CITY, Thurs. May 20, 2021 shortlisted as a candidate from among been ramping up its The Commonwealth Youth Council hundreds of young people to vie for campaigning efforts, which will vote for forty young leaders to the seat of Regional Representative end on May 22. join its executive membership on for the Caribbean & Americas. A release from the May 24 and 25, 2021. Our very own Her team started an online Department of Youth Dominique Noralez has been campaign earlier this month and has Services states, “Dominique is a dynamic youth that has extended her service to youth development. Dominique’s introduction to DYS Sunday Review commenced in 2015 as a candidate for the Belize News Review Talk Show National Youth Council. Her On Krem TV & Krem Radio victory earned her [the post of] Vice-President of the Live-streaming on Krem Television Face Book Page Belize District Youth Host: YaYa Marin Coleman Co-Host: Dwight Neal Council and 1st Vice- Date: Sunday, May 23, 2021 Time: 10:30 a.m. to noon President of the national body. She later interned at Guest: Ruby Reyes/Teacher our department with a focus Sunday Review will be repeated at 5:30 p.m. on Sunday, May 23, 2021 on policy and planning. During her time, Dominique supported and/or [led]through her capacity as a policy and planning officer for the following projects: the annual National Youth Awards, The Caribbean Young Leaders Youth Summit 2016, The World Youth Conference 2017, and Youth Mainstreaming in 2018. She was also a key player in the revision of the National Youth Policy 2018- 2019.” The Department of Youth Services added in its release that Noralez has represented the department on many regional and international platforms, inclusive of the Caribbean Leaders Youth Summit held in 2016 in Jamaica; the meeting of the Regional Youth Platform, held in Belgium that same year; the Commonwealth Youth Forum, which took place in 2018 in Belize, and the 2020 Trinidad Caribbean Youth Leaders Summit. The release also noted, “Dominique’s candidacy for executive regional representative paves the way for other youth in Belize wishing to contribute to youth development on a larger scale. She is a youth of integrity, zeal and aptitude, and we endorse her as an excellent fit for this role!” Here at Amandala, Dominique has kept us, the country, and the wider world at the edge of our seats with her alluring writing style displayed in her column, “Musings by the Curious Nonconformist.” Her analysis of national issues and their impact on youths and the general population has given her readers the privilege of zooming in on matters from a bird’s-eye view and has provided another lens through which to view those topics. There is no doubt that Dominique’s experience in organizational leadership, youth development work, communications, and policy formation will be an invaluable asset and will largely contribute to the realization of the objectives of the Commonwealth Youth Council. Amandala endorses Dominique Noralez for the post of Regional Representative – Caribbean & Americas. without reservations. Best of luck Dominique. Page 8 AMANDALABelize Friday, May 21, 2021

Den un paso adelante y envíen su mejor candidato, interlocutores sociales

Con la puesta en marcha de la legislación sobre personas empleadas en centros de llamadas en todo Belize, financiamiento de campañas, la Comisión de Elecciones y y que el trabajador promedio (según el sitio web Límites menos bajo el control del partido gobernante, la salaryexplorer.com) gana BZ $ 1,540 por mes, incluyendo redistribución de distritos electorales en el horizonte y la beneficios de vivienda, transporte y otros, todo ingresando implementación de importantes disposiciones de la CNUCC al país en dólares estadounidenses, esta es una industria ahora a la vista, los beliceños deben esperar que nuestro que se acerca al estado de piedra angular de nuestra sistema actual entregue más para la gente y menos para el economía. Según estadísticas no oficiales, la incipiente partido que gana el control del gobierno. industria de SPN está generando más de 45 millones de A lo largo de los años, nuestros líderes políticos no han dólares estadounidenses en divisas. estado dispuestos a hacer leyes que restrinjan su poder y Los salarios que están ganando la mayoría de los han faltado el respeto a leyes existentes, por lo que para empleados en la industria no son fantásticos, pero son mucho hacer que estos avances legislados den frutos para el pueblo, mejores que el salario mínimo de $ 5 que el nuevo gobierno dependemos de nuestras organizaciones de interlocutores aspira a legislar. Para mantener y aumentar nuestra sociales para que lleven la carga. Han estado a la vanguardia; participación en la industria, necesitaremos un alto nivel de ahora tendrán que hacer más. administración y un grupo de talentos versátil y cada vez El embajador David Gibson, coordinador del think thank, más educado, porque es muy competitivo allá fuera. Centro para Estudios Estratégicos, Análisis Político e La Sra. Naweed Chougle, en la nota de 2017, “El futuro de Investigación (CSSPAR en ingles), ha hecho un llamamiento la industria de los centros de llamadas en la India”, que se para una fuerte representación de las organizaciones de publicó en Trak.in, un blog de noticias de negocios y tecnología interlocutores sociales en la Comisión de Integridad, la líder en la India, señaló que, por diversas razones, negocios Comisión de Elecciones y Límites, la Comisión de Servicio subcontratados del Reino Unido y Estados Unidos estaban Público, y la propuesta Comisión de Contratos Públicos. disminuyendo en ese país, una de esas razones era que los A principios de este mes, el Movimiento por la Paz de Belize británicos y los estadounidenses tenían algunos problemas (BPM en inglés) anunció que la organización ha sido aceptada con el acento indio. como miembro de la Coalición de la Sociedad Civil de la Otra razón del declive en los negocios, señaló, fue que las CNUCC y que intensificará sus esfuerzos en la lucha por la economías debilitadas del Reino Unido y los EE. UU. en ese buena gobernanza. Un comunicado de BPM dijo que la momento habían llevado a las empresas de esos países a organización está a punto de “intensificar sus esfuerzos para contratar en casa. En el Reino Unido y Estados Unidos, hacer los principios de: responsabilidad, transparencia, “emplear a gente local se ha convertido en una prioridad consulta y, sobre todo, adhesión al estado de derecho, la sobre la reducción de costos hasta en una quinta parte norma y no una aberración, en Belize”. mediante la subcontratación a India”, dijo. La Sra. Naweed Los representantes seleccionados por las organizaciones también señaló que la inflación y los aumentos salariales de interlocutores sociales son clave para la aplicación exitosa habían elevado el costo de hacer negocios en la India, y eso de la protección de los denunciantes y las leyes de significaba que su ventaja en costos estaba disminuyendo. financiamiento de campañas políticas, y para el La Sra. Blake Morgan, en la nota, “Seguirán recibiendo funcionamiento de nuestros importantes órganos de llamadas los centros de llamadas en 10 años”, que fue supervisión. En la selección de representantes, las publicada por la revista Forbes en 2018, describió tres organizaciones de interlocutores sociales no siempre han escenarios: uno, existirán, aún recibirán llamadas, porque la enviado sus mejores talentos. Un fracaso flagrante fue que gente confía en los seres humanos más que confían en las las iglesias remitieron a un senador cuyo propósito declarado máquinas (el 74% de las personas se comunican con el servicio era mantener la paz en la cámara alta. de atención al cliente por teléfono, más de lo que utilizan Ciertos criterios deben cumplirse, ser obligatorios, de hecho, cualquier otro canal); dos, no existirán, porque a medida cuando estas organizaciones seleccionan a un individuo para que crece la tecnología digital, un mayor número de clientes representarlos en los organismos gubernamentales. Con se preocupará más por hacer sus negocios rápidamente que respecto al Senado, los partidos electos pueden jugar sus por cómo se hacen; y tres, evolucionarán para incluir sistemas juegos políticos, pero en la cámara alta las organizaciones de inteligencia artificial que procesarán los negocios e interlocutoras sociales deben elegir senadores que conozcan interacciones anteriores de un cliente antes de reenviarlos a nuestra Constitución, conozcan nuestra historia y conozcan una persona que pueda abordar el problema de inmediato. todos los asuntos financieros de nuestra nación. Tim Pickard, en su nota de 2015 “El futuro centro de llamadas: 10 predicciones para los próximos 10 años”, publicada por Los centros de llamadas brillan en Belize Vonage, en el sitio web vonage.com, dijo que para 2025 el centro físico dará paso al trabajo remoto, y que los trabajadores De todas las industrias en Belize, la más agradablemente de los centros de llamadas tendrán que ser “superagentes” sorprendente es la de los centros de servicio telefónico, que con excelentes habilidades interpersonales. Pickard dijo que son casi el proveedor más importante de puestos de trabajo el trabajador del centro de llamadas necesitará más que para nuestros jóvenes en este momento. La subcontratación “excelentes habilidades de comunicación, necesitará de procesos de negocio (SPN), comúnmente denominada habilidades analíticas para la resolución de problemas, gestión centros de llamadas, es como una ganancia inesperada, de proyectos y, en algunos casos, capacitación técnica para porque la mayoría de nosotros no esperaba que tuviera un comprender los detalles más finos del producto o servicio”. rendimiento tan bueno. En cuanto a sus habilidades interpersonales, el Sr. Pickard Como señalamos en un editorial algunos meses antes de dijo que los consumidores exigen un gran servicio, que los la pandemia, la economía de Belize estaría en un gran estudios muestran que el 50% de los clientes en el Reino problema si no tuviéramos esta industria, y se ha sugerido Unido comprarán “a un competidor como resultado de un que esta es un área en la que podríamos querer invertir más. mal servicio al cliente”, y el 44% de los clientes de EE. UU. Sin embargo, la subcontratación de procesos de negocio es haría lo mismo. incluso más frágil que nuestra industria número uno, el Los trabajos no son de alto nivel para la mayoría de los turismo, por lo que tenemos que esforzarnos para mantener trabajadores, pero en una economía que no está haciendo nuestra ventaja competitiva. grandes cosas en este momento, los centros de llamadas Algunas estimaciones indican que podría haber hasta 5,000 son los nuevos Williamson y Nova. Friday, May 21, 2021 AMANDALABelize Page A33 Man shot in Seine Bight

by Dayne Guy

Seine Bight Village, Stann Creek District, Mon. May 17, 2021 The police are currently investigating a shooting incident in the Seine Bight village. Reports are that at about 7:54 p.m. on Monday, May 17, the police, after being notified that a shooting had occurred, visited the Placencia Polyclinic. Upon arrival, the police saw 21- year-old Norman Cayetano with gunshot wounds in his body. The officers conducted an investigation into the incident and learned that around 7:45 p.m. that night, when Cayetano arrived home, an unidentified man emerged from the back of his house and approached him. The man then fired shots at Cayetano, which caused his injuries. Norman Cayetano has since been transported to the Southern Regional Hospital, where he is reportedly in a stable condition.

Norma Louise Belisle

The Belisle family announces the death of Norma Louise Belisle nee Staine - born April 17, 1930 and died in Los Angeles, California on May 18, 2021. Norma was pre- deceased by her husband Lewis “Buck” Belisle, Sr. and daughter Lynn Belisle. She is survived by her children: Georgia Belisle, Lewis Belisle, Jr., Charlene Belisle Gladden, Elizabeth Belisle Jones, Eva Michelle Belisle; her seven grandchildren: Vivian Belisle Ramnarace, Gianessa Jones, Gary, Destine, D’Neiko, Vashti, and Vania Belisle. She is also survived by 4 great grandchildren: Zhyra, Madyson Belisle, Darryl Johnson III, and Kait-Lynn Ramnarace; her brothers: Ernest, Michael and Lewin Staine and sisters: Mrs. Sarita Tillett and Mrs. Mavis Smith Kingston. Funeral arrangements will be announced later. Page B34 AMANDALABelize Friday, May 21, 2021

virus. The team is comprised of very at Isabella on Saturday in a two-best- young talented players, and no doubt of-three for the (Level Two) with good coaching and strong focusing championship crown. For an update on in the game in future tournaments they these two teams, in the knockout could reach the top spot. So, better Brilliant had beaten Rural Mix. Rural playing next time, guys! Heartfelt Mix was given a second chance to gratitude in your performance! redeem themselves against the Eagles, In the game they played against Rural and they did. Cricket Corner Mix, the latter took to bat first, and at The other game was played in the fall of the last wicket the score Belmopan between Bandits of board showed the Mix at 163 runs all Belmopan and Summer Fever of Bandits grabbed the first one from Summer Fever; and out. In that inning Randy Robinson Landing. These two teams are going in Western Eagles will have to try another season. scored 41, followed by Jarrel Hendy a two-best-of-three series in Level with 22. Casper Smith, who bowled One. Whoever wins will be crowned exceptionally well, took 4 wickets, champ. BELIZE Bowen/ Harrison Parks 2020 Cricket followed by Jermaine Pook with 2. The Fever boys opted to bat first, CITY, Competition continued over the Now it’s time for showdown. As and the batsmen started to flex muscles, Thurs. May weekend with two wonderful matches. good as Casper Smith and Norman but with the so precise bowling of 20, 2021 In the first to report, Western Eagles Pook tried in their batting Bandits’ bowlers Orlando and Walton Hello out made a very good try at staying in the performances, scoring 23 and 18, “Baby Hulk” Banner, who took 3 there to all playoffs, but got dropped by the upstart respectively, the precise bowling of wickets each, the Fever team was cut cricket Rural Mix. I always wish and hope that Dwayne and Dudley Hendy, who took down for 164 runs, with Maurice lovers! one day the Eagles will reach the top 6 and 3 wickets each, cut the team Castillo scoring 48, followed by Under the and be crowned champion. But hard as down for 119. The Eagles lost by 44 Kenton Young with 20. auspices of they fought, it was not to be in years runs. This puts the Eagles at 3rd place After a short break, the Bandits took the Belize gone by or last season, that is being in Level Two. National Cricket Association, the Barry finished this year due to that dreaded Rural Mix will now play Brilliant Please turn to„Page C

Invitation to Bid – UNDP/UNRCO Common Premise Office Layout

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) hereby invites qualified firms to submit a Bid (ITB) for the above- referenced subject.

Background: The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Government of Belize (GOB) signed a Standard Basic Agreement whereby; UNDP will support and supplement the efforts of the Government of Belize at solving the most important problems of its economic development and to promote social progress and better standard of living to the people of Belize. This assistance shall be provided only in response to request submitted by the Government of Belize and approved by UNDP and made available to the Government, or to such entity as the Government may designate, and shall be furnished and receive in accordance with the relevant and applicable resolutions and decisions of the competent UNDP organs and subject to the availability of the necessary funds to the UNDP.

The United Nations Resident Coordination Office (UNRCO) has now joined the UNDP in securing a Common Premise Office located at the New Social Security Building in the City of Belmopan and therefore requires a contractor to construct the approved designs and concept layout.

The Contractor is expected to work, under the guidance of the Assistant Resident Representative and direct supervision of HD Construction Ltd, for managing the completion of remodeling of the Common Premise Office as per the statement of work and bill of quantity selected.

Request for Proposal Package located: Please download the RFP package at http://procurement-notices.undp.org/ Reference No. 78724 or at http://www.bz.undp.org/content/belize/en/home/operations/ procurement.html/

Submission of Application Package: Proposals are required to submit by email or in 1 sealed envelope clearly labeled RFP: UNDP/UNRCO Common Premise Office Layout

United Nations Development Programme Attn: Procurement Associate 3rd Floor, Lawrence Nicholas Building. Belmopan Cayo District, Belize, C.A. Tel: (501) 822-2688, 0467, 4228 Email: [email protected]

Deadline for Application: Monday, June 7, 2021 at 4:30 p.m.

UNDP is committed to achieving workforce diversity in terms of gender, nationality and culture. Individuals from minority groups, indigenous groups and persons with disabilities are equally encouraged to apply. All applications will be treated with the strictest of confidence. UNDP does not tolerate sexual exploitation and abuse, any kind of harassment, including sexual harassment, and discrimination. All selected candidates will, therefore, undergo rigorous reference and background checks. Friday, May 21, 2021 AMANDALABelize Page 9

I should state here that it is a 18 to 23 of Osborne’s first witness (Claimant) and Radio KREM two were considered inseparable as matter of some regret that the court statement. In fact, under cross- Limited (Defendant) – May 27, friends. did not have the benefit of any examination by Mr. Michael Young, 2008. But my opinion is that Said was testimony from Mr. Said Musa of S. C., the learned counsel for the not the ideologue Assad was, and so the law firm of Musa and defendant, Mr. Osborne, had to What the vast majority of when they lost their respective seats Balderamos. His witness statement admit that Mr. Musa was, in his Belizeans don’t realize about Said in the House in the 1984 general which was filed was not relied upon own words, “the main Musa is that he lost four of the first election, Assad, the committed by the claimant. It would appear, communicator” for the five elections in which he ideologue, withdrew from the however, from Mr. Philip Osborne’s arrangement. participated, between 1974 and People’s United Party (PUP) to witness statement that Mr. Musa 1984. (These were three general work, more or less full-time, with and his law firm, Musa and - from paragraph 21 of the elections, a Belize City Council the ideologically-inclined Society for Balderamos, played a crucial role Supreme Court of Belize judgment election, and a national convention the Promotion of Education and in brokering the arrangement by Chief Justice Abdulai O. Conteh, of the then ruling People’s United Research (SPEAR). Said began between the claimant and the regarding Claim No. 519 of 2007 Party.) During this period, he was a paying more attention to his North defendant – see in particular paras. between Sagis Investments Limited sidekick of Assad Shoman’s, and the Front Street law partnership with Randolph Balderamos, but he remained active in his Fort George constituency and in the post-1984 Opposition PUP. Ralph Fonseca returned home from Canada after his father died in a tragic traffic accident in 1979. Ralph Fonseca became the chief executive in Barry Bowen’s Belikin beer company. Then Barry fired him early in 1984. The dispute involved a bank loan in Panama which Ralph had negotiated for Barry’s abortive wood-burning-for-electricity scheme. I believe Said became Ralph’s attorney at that time. Whether this was so or not, it is for sure that Ralph became active in the PUP and became their December 1984 general election candidate in the Queen’s Square constituency. Glenn Godfrey, at that time, may have still been studying law in Barbados, where two of his close friends were George Brown and Troadio Gonzales. Mr. Brown later became Chief Justice of Belize and was knighted by the Queen. Troadio became a Supreme Court Justice. Many Belizeans thought the general election loss in 1984 to Manuel Esquivel’s United Democratic Party (UDP) would have been devastating to the PUP, but Rt. Hon. George Price’s charisma and mystique remained realities in the Belizean nation, especially in the Northern Districts. Precisely when Glenn Godfrey returned home from law school I can’t say, but by 1987, when I moved to a half-finished home on Seashore Drive, he was living a couple houses down from me with his first wife, Dolores. (I believe Glenn has a first degree in English from a university in New Orleans.) Between the three of them – Said, Ralph, and Glenn, they reconstructed the PUP, so much so that in September of 1989 the PUP defeated the UDP, narrowly. To my mind, it was Mr. Price’s historic reputation which was most Please turn to„Page 10 Page 10 AMANDALABelize Friday, May 21, 2021 From the Publisher

Continued from Page 9 the time. Said is a winner. „ The PUP had gambled when they important in enabling that somewhat allowed me to control KREM surprising victory, but the fact that Radio after the general election of the PUP, during their campaign, 1989, because a radio station is a promised to give Amandala a radio dangerous thing “in the wrong station licence, a licence the ruling hands,” so to speak. As opposed to UDP had refused, had gone down a newspaper, there is an immediacy well with roots Belizeans, I believe. in a radio station’s communication Let me say at this point that there with the people. A radio station is have been several occasions over the not so dangerous nowadays, years when I gave Said Musa “a because today there are at least forty pass”, so to speak, because this is a or fifty radio stations in Belize. But man who supported me when I was in 1989, there were only the practically down and out. Said government radio station (Radio invested $20,000 in this newspaper Belize, Friends FM, or whatever), in 1977, enabling us to acquire the British Forces radio station at modern offset technology. With such Ladyville, and KREM on Partridge technology, we could compete with Street. Harry Lawrence’s Reporter, which The fledgling KREM proved was the leading newspaper in Belize itself so powerful by 1990 that we in 1977. By 1984, Amandala had successfully led a beverage boycott become no. 1, and we began to pay against the mighty Sir Barry Bowen. our bills, then to make some money. I would say that in so doing KREM How can I not be grateful to a man was realizing the worst nightmare who befriended me in business when of the 1989-1993 PUP Cabinet: TENDER FOR THE GENERAL SECURITY AND I was down and out? that Partridge Street had become SURVEILLANCE OF THE But life is life, and things change. too powerful. CENTRAL INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY OFFICE Things are changing all the time. It was not something the PUP After Said Musa became tight with Cabinet had intended to do. KREM Tenders are invited from security companies for the general security and Ralph Fonseca and Glenn Godfrey, Radio was never intended to surveillance of the Belize National ICT Center Building (Belmopan City), corner he won several consecutive elections. survive. My dad is an absolutely Mountain View Blvd. and Dry Creek Street. The tender shall be for a period of He was undefeated from 1989 brilliant man, but inexperienced one (1) year commencing July 1, 2021 and ending June 30, 2022. The successful onwards, until the general election politically. He had believed Said tender will be responsible for the security of the building and premises by armed of 2008. What he gave up in return Musa to be KREM’s friend. This is guards on a 24-hour basis seven days per week, including public and bank for political success, I suspect, were true, but Said had other friends, holidays. the things he and I had stood for in more important friends. 1977. Said became neoliberal in his We went through hell, but KREM 1. The successful tender will be expected to provide the following security thinking, for all intents and survived. Then Lord Ashcroft and surveillance services: purposes. At least, so it seems. decided he had to acquire that (a) General security and surveillance of the Belize National ICT Center This column is about how Said aforementioned leverage. He used compound (the “Premises”) including all building and fixtures erected therein. Musa facilitated Lord Michael’s the invented name of “Sagis,” and (b) Allow only authorized persons to enter the buildings or compound. The Ashcroft’s uninvited, unwelcome insisted that Evan X Hyde had to Security must maintain a log of all persons and vehicles entering and entry into KREM Radio in 1994. sell 10% of the company if the leaving the premises. Said used an attorney who is my station were to acquire a $75,000 (c) Conduct patrols outside the building to ensure that doors remain locked compadre to convince my dad, who loan from the Ashcroft bank. and that there is no sign of breakage into the building. was managing KREM Radio in When I went to the University (d) The Security Company will provide its personnel with equipment 1994, to borrow money from Lord College of Belize (UCB) as including a licensed firearm for the effective performance of their duties. Ashcroft, with the hook in the bait chairman in 1999, I wondered (e) The Security Company, its agent or servants shall not divulge to any being that Evan X Hyde had to sell about all the business degrees UCB person or persons, any proprietary information coming to their knowledge 10 percent of the radio station (I was handing out to young Belizeans in the course of their duties. owned 40 percent of KREM in yearly. Did these young Belizeans (f) The Security Company/Guard shall also comply with CITO’s Fire Safety 1994) to a shadowy entity called have any idea how ruthless the Policy in the event of an emergency fire evacuation. (Details available business world is? Were young upon request) Sagis Investments Limited. (g) Any other security related task as may be agreed upon from time to I sensed intuitively that there was Belizeans taught how cruel it is in time by the Parties involved. something fishy about the deal, but business out here? I was at the top of my game at the Consider Lord Ashcroft. 2. Costs incurred in visiting the premises and preparations of the tender newspaper and in semi-pro Supreme Court Justice Abdulai bid are the sole responsibility of the tenderer. Bids are to be accompanied by basketball. The newspaper was Conteh ruled that KREM should Letters of Good Standing from the Belize Tax Service, Belize Companies going great guns, and I guess I felt I pay back Sagis so that Ashcroft Registry, the Belize Social Security Board and current Trade License, provide could fight the world. ‘This Sagis would stay out of a roots radio evidence of firearm licenses; evidence of past jobs and recommendations thing’, I said to myself, ‘is either station in which he did not belong. would be an asset. Ralph or Ashcroft’. Lord Michael refused to accept the But, I am relatively ignorant in Conteh verdict. In his mind, for Additional information can be obtained from Ian Smith at tel: 828-5169 or by business. I did not know that 10 whatever the reason(s), he had to email at [email protected]. Tenders are to be submitted in a sealed percent is a strategic amount in a have that 10 percent. So, using his envelope marked “TENDER FOR THE GENERAL SECURITY AND SURVEILLANCE OF THE BELIZE NATIONAL INFORMATION & business. When you own 10 percent crazy money, he took the case to a COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY (ICT) CENTER BUILDING of a business, you can interfere in higher court, and won. At that point, (BELMOPAN)”, and delivered to the Central Information Technology that business in certain strategic I realized this was serious business. Office, Belmopan, no later than 4th June, 2021 at 10:00 a.m. Bids will be ways. In 1994, Lord Ashcroft I didn’t have the resources to go to opened at 10:15 a.m. in front of bidders or their representatives who wish to decided he needed to acquire the Caribbean Court of Justice. attend the opening. Evaluation of bids will be carried out immediately after. leverage over KREM Radio and Look, I am a man who thought he Evan X Hyde, and he was facilitated was entering retirement, but the The lowest or any tender will not necessarily be accepted. Late bids will be in the process by Said Wilbert Musa, battle between the predator and the disqualified and returned to the sender unopened. a man who had been my friend from people, in a sense, is only now 1968. Still, I can understand that beginning. This notice can also be found at the MOF website https://www.mof.gov.bz Lord Ashcroft’s friendship and goodwill were important to Said at Power to the people. Friday, May 21, 2021 AMANDALABelize Page 11 Teachers and nurses have more reason fu bex

by Colin Hyde better position to do something about economy to suffer even more; our younger sister drives to Belize City it, took the bull by the horns. present leaders have said they don’t once each week, so I have one hundred Let’s start this thing at the very In the midst of this battle the teachers want to cut salaries, but they have no percent given over to riding with her beginning. Every year the IMF team were having with the elected other choice. when I go to that second city. One of comes to Belize and says our economy representatives, to wrestle away some As I understand it, the government the things that always irked me when is not doing well enough to support the of their power so that we could be better has set wage cuts to begin with traveling on buses was the mayhem at government’s wage bill, and calls are governed, along came Covid-19, which employees earning more than $12,000 the bus terminals in the evenings, a very made for cuts and increased tax rates devastated our weak economy. per year. Some said that is divide and sick scene that showed how logistically and so forth. Everyone knew that a big Make no mistake, our economy is conquer, but I believe most Belizeans deficient or uncaring the people who part of our failure was that we were as bad as it gets. We are a country that see that move as acting with have authority in this country are. being robbed blind by our elected is 4 billion dollars in debt; two of our conscience. The government moved to My especial concern was for women representatives and their cronies. major industries, citrus and farmed tier the cuts, so that those on lower pay trying to catch a bus home, while a The public servants knew that things shrimp, are on the ropes; there is no scales suffer less pain. Again some said hundred people are fighting for a space were going wrong, because they handle Petro Caribe — the UDP spent it all; divide and conquer, and again, I believe on a 55-seater. Here’s why the pure bias the government’s finances and assets, and there is little oil, since the wells in most Belizeans see the tiered cuts as for women in this scenario: I’m just under instructions from their political Spanish Lookout are nearly dry. On top reasonable. totally awed by them, because they go bosses. They could not respond as they of that, the desperate UDP spent money For its own reasons, the government to an 8-to-5, and then go home in the normally would have because, since we didn’t have in an effort to win the was very up-front about the cuts. Their evenings and give care to their children partisan CEOs were installed at the November general elections. reasons could be: one, they believe in and help them with their homework, head of the departments, many in their The new government has decided that treating their employees with total and on top of that they prepare meals ranks kowtow to government leaders. the economy is too weak to support the respect; two, they don’t believe the and wash clothes. The teachers, nurses too, could only wage bill, and it decided that some Belizean people can handle any more I’m not overlooking stay-at-home look on at the squander and corruption, major cuts in government spending are deception; three, they believed that their women who have ten children. My but after a while they realized that the necessary at this time, including employees would have gladly accepted gudnis, there are women with ten chickens would one day come home to salaries of its employees. Everyone the cuts, knowing that it could be worse; children who do the 8-to-5, and I’ll cut roost, and the teachers, who were in a knows these cuts will cause the four, they have to show the IMF and down on the butter here by pointing out the bondholders and Ashcroft that we that God blessed them with the capacity are serious — remember, we owe $4 to multi-task, so what appears billion; five, we are still in the grip of impossible to us, must be a piece of the pandemic so they didn’t cake to them. contemplate their employees going on Ai, some evenings while waiting for strike; and six, their mandate being the bus you see these women, many of fresh, they felt their employees would them bone tired, and the daam transport give them the space to implement their system is sputtering. You know that programs to make all of us win. nothing reduces us to our base animal Whatever plans were made, we are selves more than starvation, and waiting now in the absolute worst place we for service. If you want to test your can be: a strike. I said I support the civility, try not having any money to pressure, 100%, but I am not in favor buy food, or find yourself in a slow of the strike. But, if you put me on moving line. Animal Farm, I think like Boxer, so I can always use some points, and you should ignore me. there have been times when I arrived at the bus terminal to catch the seven Bad traveling o’clock bus and didn’t get on a bus until experiences nine. I’ll have to give back those points. It wasn’t often that I was so patient. I have not been traveling on buses My first bad experience on the road since Covid-19 imprisoned us; my recently was a checkpoint at 5:00 p.m. on the highway. For me the test of patience had to do with the fact that I was driving, and I prefer to drive during daylight hours, so if you slow down traffic to a crawl at a checkpoint at such Job Vacancy an hour, I have to drive faster to “make up time.” I couldn’t help remembering mothers who were heading home and Vacancy available for Assistant Manager at Turneffe Island Resort. Turneffe Island Resort is a their quality time was being private Island located 30 miles away from Belize City. The company provides traveling, food squandered. My second bad experience was and accommodation. dragging four miles behind a truck Requirements: loaded with sugarcane. The truck’s best speed was 40 mph, but much of the • Previous experience in the tourism industryat related field time it travelled at 20 mph, and there were times it slowed to a crawl. There • Be able to work on a remote island for a minimum of 4 weeks straight were a couple opportunities for me to • Be able to work on weekends and holidays pass, but I didn’t, because there were • Be very fluent in proper English two small trucks ahead of me and their • drivers had decided to satta, stay safe. Be able to provide excellent customer service You’ve heard about the reprimand • Knowledge on boats and generators will be an asset for my very good friend, Simon • Knowledge in Diving will be an asset Willacey, how he got a stern lecture from Mexican police because he was a menace on the highway. Simon went up to Texas and bought a small truck All interested parties forward Your CV and a letter of recommendation from previous employer and, being a very respectful guy, on the to [email protected] A police record will also be required at date of interview. return he was cruising through Mexico Please turn to„Page 12 Page 12 AMANDALABelize Friday, May 21, 2021

STRENGTHENING OF TAX ADMINISTRATION PROJECT Ladyville resident REQUEST FOR EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST stabbed to death Consulting Firm to Prepare and Implement a New Audit Model, making use of the wider range examination and risk- based techniques (to include analytic tools for audit)

Institution: The Ministry of Finance (MOF) Country: Belize Project: Strengthening of Tax Administration (STA) Abstract: Consulting Services – Consulting Firm to Prepare and Implement a New Audit Model, making use of the wider range examination and risk-based techniques (to include analytic tools for audit). Loan No.: 4839/OC-BL Deadline: May 28, 2021, Belize Local Time

The Government of Belize (GOB) has received financing from the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) for the execution of a five-year tax modernization project entitled “Strengthening of Tax Administration” (BL-L1031). The main beneficiaries of the Project are: (a) the Government, which will have more revenues to implement its public policies; (b) taxpayers, who will have more support and a digital environment to fulfil their tax obligations; and (c) the population, from the government policies implemented. Through this project, the Belize Tax Service Department (BTSD) has procured a Modern Integrated Tax Administration System (the Revenue Management System (RMS)) and is presently in the implementation process. This new system will be used in the management of the Belize Tax Administration. The BTSD management has identified the need for a modern audit approach based on risk analysis. The BTSD Strategic Plan states that: “BTSD will explore the introduction of a Risk Management Plan (RMP) to properly respond to the risks identified on a timely by Dayne Guy basis, to minimize overall compliance burden for both the taxpayers and the tax administration. As an important aspect of the RMP, risk mitigating strategies will be proposed for application against potential and existing risks. The plan will highlight all areas of risks including risk-based assessments, risk-based audits, risk-based sector and taxpayer segmentation, compliance LADYVILLE, Belize District, Thurs. risks (registration, filing, reporting and payments) and international risks. Risk mitigation reduces the extent of exposure and May 20, 2021 ensures that the strategic objectives are achieved.” Lincoln Erskine, a Ladyville The consulting services (“the services”) includes the contracting of a consulting firm for a period of ten (10) months to Prepare resident, was found dead inside his and Implement a New Audit Model, making use of the range examination and risk-based techniques (to include analytic tools for audit). The main activities of the consultancy includes: home yesterday, Wednesday, May 19. 1. To assess the status of BTSD taxpayer audit strategies and operations for all tax type. Members of Erskine’s family said 2. To review the Audit Division organization and resources, as well as the staff skills that he would visit them daily, so they 3. To suggest the strategy for centralization/decentralization of the audit were puzzled when he did not make 4. To propose a new organization area (if required) his regular visits on Monday and 5. To propose the staff composition by area and by location 6. To propose the different audit programs taking into consideration taxpayer segments and different audit locations (central, Tuesday of this week. The family’s districts). concern led them to visit his home with 7. To propose a system of massive audit based on IT verification of returns against risk factors and third-party information. The police, and to their dismay, they selected cases should be resolved very quickly (4 cases a day) as they are based on firm verification. reportedly found Erskine’s body on the 8. To propose modern analytic tools suitable for Belize’s environment by conducting a SWOT analysis to support the audit work. sofa with multiple stab wounds -- 9. Once the proposal on the modern analytic tool is approved, the consulting firm will procure, implement, and train auditors in its including one to the throat. utilization. 10. To conduct Pilot audit with the audit team to plan, execute and report on randomly selected taxpayers. The family explained to local media The Consulting firm should have a minimum of five (5) years’ experience in Tax Administration Taxpayer Audit and Risk Analysis. that Erskine had recently gotten into an As well as a strong expertise in the use of modern analytic tools. The Consulting firm should prove its expertise in Tax Administration altercation with his neighbors, audit, risk analysis and Business Strategy (supporting business and organization goals). following his refusal to let them use The Ministry of Finance now invites eligible consulting firms (“Consultants”) to indicate their interest in providing the services. his BEL post to illegally access Interested eligible Consultants must submit an Expression of Interest providing information demonstrating that they have the required qualifications and relevant experience to perform the services (brochures, description of similar assignments specifying electricity. start and end dates of assignments, experience in similar conditions, availability of appropriate skills, etc.). The term “consultant” Police have detained several person means a legally-established professional consulting firm or an entity that may provide the services. that are in custody at this moment. While Expression of Interest package should contain: a motive has not yet been determined (i) Document explaining interest, experience, and competence of the consulting firm. by police they area looking into the (ii) Firms experience in the assignment of similar consultancy services during the past five years. Description of similar assignments specifying start and end dates of assignments. reports of the dispute in the area. (iii) Firms evidence of past jobs. (iv) Two references (v) Proof of nationality: Copy of certificate of incorporation and information of shareholders of company specifying the shares Teachers and owned by each respective shareholder of the company. Additional documentation required for National Consultants: (vi) Copy of Certificate of Good Standing from Belize Company Registry nurses have more (vii) Copy of Certificate of Good Standing from the Social Security Board (viii) Copy of Certificate of Good Standing from the Belize Tax Service Department reason fu bex (ix) Current Trade License Consultants will be selected in accordance with the procedures set out in the Inter-American Development Bank: Policies for the Continued from Page 11 Selection and Contracting of Consultants financed by the Inter-American Development Bank (GN-2350-15, May 2019 edition) „ and is open to all eligible consultants as defined in the IDB policies. at 40 or 45, and he got pulled over and Consultants may associate with other firms in the form of a joint venture or a sub-consultancy to enhance their qualifications. For lectured to, for gumming up the traffic. the purpose of establishing the short list, the nationality of a firm is that of the country in which it is legally incorporated or I am told that these trucks are on the constituted and in the case of Joint Venture, the nationality of the firm appointed to represent it. road during rush hours both morning and A Consultant will be selected in accordance with the Selection based on the Consultants’ Qualification method set out in the IDB evening. Now, business comes before Consultant Policies. The selected consulting firm will be selected based on its experience and competence relevant to the assignment safety — we have to eat so we have a and most appropriate qualifications and references. Only the highest ranked consulting firm from the short-listed firms will body to protect -- but it isn’t necessary be notified and will be asked to submit a technical and price proposal. Further information can be obtained at the address below during office hours Monday to Friday 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Expressions for these trucks to be moving during rush of interest must be delivered via direct mail or e-mail at the address indicated below by 4:00 p.m. on Friday May 28, 2021. hour. They need to do a shift system at Interested consulting firms are asked to submit their expression of interest via e-mail to [email protected] the farm so that they do the bulk of their marked STAP- Consulting Firm to Prepare and Implement a New Audit Model in the subject header, or submit on or before Friday moving before daybreak and after ten May 28, 2021 to the following address: at night. These trucks shouldn’t be on the road during rush hours. Director General Belize Tax Service Department Space, again Strengthening of Tax Administration Project Charles Bartlett Hyde Building Hmm, to those who might have been Mahogany Street, Belize City interested in my continuing the excerpts Tel: 501-222-5114 from my book, I’m out of space again. For clarifications kindly contact: Ah, it’s more than that. I said the book was safe, it is…oh, one of my great Project Coordinator buddies, Brother Gasper Martinez, just Project Executing Unit arrived at my house with some Strengthening of Tax Administration Project magnificent blue mangoes and I’m on Charles Bartlett Hyde Building deadline so I’m punching the send Mahogany Street, Belize City Tel: 501-222-5114/E-mail: [email protected] button on this piece now. Perdón, I’ll complete my explanation next week. Friday, May 21, 2021 AMANDALABelize Page 13 Page 14 AMANDALABelize Friday, May 21, 2021 From the Publisher

Reproduced from page 9 of the Tuesday, May 18, 2021, #3461 issue of Amandala

Michael Ashcroft first came to was just a stone’s throw from St. “Convent” during his three years here. autobiography. He was living in a British Honduras (Belize) as a seven Catherine’s Academy and the convent “Convent” was an exclusive, elitist different world, you see. year old English child in late 1953, the of the Sisters of Mercy who run SCA, primary school, and I do not know any Yes, he was only a child, but so was year when Queen Elizabeth II was and the United States Consulate. These dark-skinned person who attended that I in 1954. Living at the corner of Regent crowned. two institutions were right next to each school. The classmate from Belize Street West and West Canal, I remember His father was a British civil servant other, the Sisters of Mercy to the Elementary who made contact with the PUP/GWU celebrating that victory who was assigned the post of principal northeast of the Consulate. Michael Ashcroft some years later was marching over Bolton Bridge. I auditor in B.H., the only British St. Catherine’s Academy, a one John Waight, who was a year ahead remember the late Lizan Grey waving possession on the Central American secondary school for girls/young of me when I attended St. John’s an American flag – the stars and stripes. mainland. The Ashcrofts spent three ladies, had a primary school section College between 1959 and 1963. There was no mention in the Lord’s years here before leaving for another which was officially called St. John Waight was the older son of Mr. autobiography of Ludwig Lightburn, assignment. Catherine’s Elementary School, I James Waight and his wife, Lydia Price basketball at the old Holy Redeemer The Ashcroft family lived in the believe, but we in the rest of Belize Waight, who was a sister of the Rt. Hon. Parish Hall, football at Edwards Park, exclusive Memorial Park City’s Roman Catholic schools knew George Cadle Price, the most powerful the Baron Bliss Harbor Regatta, neighbourhood, now more commonly the school as “Convent.” Michael politician in Belize when his nephew, mahogany logs chained together in the known as the Marine Parade area. This Anthony Ashcroft went to school at John Waight, and I were attending S.J.C. Haulover Creek, or Christmas John Waight’s father was the head bramming. of department at Lands and Survey. John Michael Anthony Ashcroft, who is a had an older sister named Ellen, a year older than I, lived in a different younger sister named Irene, and two Belize from the one I lived in. My point VACANCY ANNOUNCEMENT younger brothers, James and Joe. is that the Belize he keeps repeating he I don’t recall John Waight playing loved and loves so much, is not the any kind of sports while he was at Belize our native generations knew. The Pan American Health Organization/World Health Organization S.J.C., and I don’t recall “Convent” Over the course of my life, I have (PAHO/WHO) invites applicants for the functions of One-Health technical participating in any of the primary watched some Southside Belizeans Consultant. school competitions of my childhood, move upwards financially from Duty station: Belize City such as football and radio quiz poverty. This is, in some cases, the Qualifications: programs. This was not only an elitist result of success in electoral politics. Essential: A university degree in public health or institution: it was isolationist. The legal profession has also been a veterinary studies. Here is what Michael Ashcroft gateway to financial success for a few Desirable: Master’s degree in One Health. wrote in his autobiography, DIRTY Southside Belizeans. Born and raised Experience: POLITICS, DIRTY TIMES, published on the Southside, once such Belizeans Essential: At least 5 years experience in public health, in 2006. “Weekends were spent on boat achieve success, they move out from food safety or zoonotic diseases detection, prevention, and control. trips to the Northern Cayes, exploring the Southside to the Northside and to Desirable: Experience in public health or animal health the rain forest close to Belize’s the “suburbs,” and begin to live lives systems in Belize. disputed border with Guatemala or of elitism and isolationism. But, they Skills: snorkeling on the 185 miles of coral have a residual memory of the • Evidence-based knowledge of risk factors, for disease reef that runs from north to south some Southside Belize City of the 1950s and spillover from wildlife to domestic animals and humans, six miles off the mainland.” 1960s, which was the center of and clear mechanisms to prevent, predict, detect, respond There is absolutely nothing in Belizean life. and manage disease outbreaks at local, regional and Michael Ashcroft’s autobiography, Michael Ashcroft never had a national level. • Ability to engage relevant sectors and disciplines across which describes his three years of Southside experience. His video fling the human – animal – environment interface to address living in British Honduras as a child, with Michael Finnegan a few years ago health in a way that is more effective, efficient, and from 1953 to 1956, which indicates that in the Mesopotamia area was “jokes.” sustainable. he ever toured Belize City’s Southside, For Lord Ashcroft, roots Belizeans are • Coordination and collaboration, to implement activities which was the center of life in the faceless nonentities for him to across the human-animal interface. capital city in those days, or had any experiment with and exploit. • Very good understanding of the One Health approach roots Southside friends. Now remember this, that we live in and how it can be implemented in Belize. Ashcroft describes Barry Bowen as a world where capitalism rules. • Excellent communication ad interpersonal skills and sensitivity to political and cultural issues. an “old schoolfriend,” but it is not clear Capitalism emphasizes competition • Ability to work in multisectoral teams and under if they were in the same class. The and acquisitive energy. This is the pressure. Bowen family home back then was on world where Lord Michael has • Ability to meet deadlines. Southern Foreshore at its corner with excelled, and it is now the case that the • Strong professional oral and writing skills, including the King Street. So, strictly speaking, one masses of us Belizeans have become development of reports, oral presentations, and technical/ may describe the late Barry as a his business and legal victims. persuasive documents for consideration at the highest Southside acquaintance of Mr. I would like for Lord Ashcroft to stop levels of the Organization. • Strong interpersonal and communication skills. Ashcroft’s. telling us how much he loves us, because • Demonstrated ability to effectively use a computer and John Waight’s family lived on Regent he did not experience Belize when he utilize software programs such as Microsoft Office Word, Street, I believe, but Southern was a child. There is nothing sinful in Excel, PowerPoint, SharePoint, and Outlook. Other IT Foreshore and Regent Street, though the Lord’s behaving in a predatory skills and knowledge of other software programs for located on the Southside, were manner in his business dealings with us Statistical Analysis, Data Exploratory Analysis and Project exclusive neighborhoods. Belizeans. Capitalism is a rough and Management would be an asset. In late April of 1954, there was a cruel game. The winners are people who Languages: Very good knowledge of English and working knowledge tense, almost explosive national know how to get away with things, so to of Spanish Deadline: Letter of application, Curriculum Vitae, and two current election in British Honduras wherein speak. So, it is appropriate to letters of recommendation should be sent to the anti-colonial People’s United Party/ congratulate Lord Michael. [email protected] or to P.O. Box 1834, Belize City no General Workers Union (PUP/GWU) But, the time has come for us later than 25 May 2021. coalition fought for political power Belizeans to learn how to protect against the pro-British National Party ourselves. If not, dog eat wi supper. For further details visit our website http://new.paho.org/blz/ . An interview (NP). It was the first election in British Some may say, our supper has already will be held for this position and only candidates under serious Honduras wherein there was universal been eaten. And the leading canine diner consideration will be contacted. adult suffrage. The roots PUP/GWU has been the one who loves us so. It PAHO/WHO has a smoke-free environment and does not recruit smokers or users of any form of tobacco. won big. There was no mention of that would be almost funny if it were not so election in Lord Ashcroft’s bitter a reality. Friday, May 21, 2021 AMANDALABelize Page 15

PUBLIC AUCTION SALE: PROPERTIES Placencia Pensinsula, Stann Creek District ATLANTIC INSURANCE COMPANY LIMITED BY ORDER of the Mortgagees Messrs. The Belize Bank International Limited, Applications are invited from suitably qualified persons to fill Licensed Auctioneers Kevin A. Castillo and Christiana R. Castillo are selling the position of INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY OFFICER ONLINE via belizepropertyauctions.com those properties appearing below. Sales currently running and will expire on Tuesday 25th May 2021 at the ROLE: Assist in overseeingactivities relating to hardware times shown on the website. and software and assist in managing information technology, network and computer systems including: 1. No. 2123 West Wind Drive, The Placencia Residences, Placencia Peninsula, Stann Creek District: 1. Maintain our existing network REGISTRATION SECTION BLOCK PARCEL 2. Become familiar with our network configuration (Firewall, Placencia North 36 2123 VMs, Switches, Servers etc.) 3. Learn our website Framework (DNN) 4. Provide orientation to new users of existing technology 5. Provide individual training and support on request 6. Maintain current and accurate inventory of technology (Being a reinforced masonry block building frame [60 ft. X 60 ft. + carport 20 hardware, software and resources ft. X 20 ft.] and lot [768.690 S.M.] situate on West Wind Drive, The Placencia Residences, Placencia Peninsula, Stann Creek District, the freehold property 7. Research current and potential resources and services of Messrs. Mayan Lagoon Estates Limited.) 8. Connect and set up hardware 9. Load all required software 2. No. 1486 West Wind Drive, The Placencia Residences, Placencia 10. Provide network accounts and passwords as required Peninsula, Stann Creek District: 11. Assists in monitoring security of all technology REGISTRATION SECTION BLOCK PARCEL 12. Assist in identifying and preparing hardware for disposal Placencia North 36 1486 when appropriate 13. Ensure hardware is stripped and secured before disposal 14. Provides progress reports on assigned resources and projects 15. Projects/Tasks may be assigned by Information Technology Administrator, Department Manager and General Manager as necessary in any area of the Company’s business. Deadlines must be adhered to. (Being a three storey timber/vinyl dwelling house: Ground Floor 28 ft. X 59 ft. + porch 8 ft. X 28 ft. containing 2 bedrooms + 1 bathroom + living/dining/ Qualifications and Experience kitchen + laundry + utility room + storage under staircase; First Floor: 22 ft. X This post requires an individual who hold himself/herself to the 43 ft. + porch 5 ft. X 22 ft. containing master bedroom + bathroom + walk-in highest standards and have a strong desire for personal growth and closet; Second Floor: 10 ft. X 10 ft. viewing attic (access to all three floors via professional success. internal concrete staircase with timber steps) and lot [919.702 square meters (1099.95 square yards)] situate on West Wind Drive, The Placencia Residences, Required Skills and Experience Placencia Peninsula, Stann Creek District, the freehold property of Mr. Ron • In-depth knowledge of at least one programming language Oczkowski and Ms. Barbara Bell.) • Experience with third-party libraries and APIs 3. No. 2108 West Wind Drive, The Placencia Residences, Placencia • Excellent analytical skills with a good problem-solving Peninsula, Stann Creek District: attitude • Proven ability to write readable code REGISTRATION SECTION BLOCK PARCEL • Placencia North 36 2108 Hardware troubleshooting skills • Understanding of Microsoft environment • Effective verbal, presentation and listening communications skills • Effective written communication and report writing skills • Minimum Associate degree

(Being a two-storey concrete building [32 ft. X 32 inclusive of a porch 5 ft. X Additional Competencies 16 ft. + back porch 5 ft. wide containing Ground Floor: master bedroom + • Setting up virtual machines walk-in closet + bathroom + living/dining/kitchen + half bathroom + laundry • room; Second Floor: 1 bedroom + closet + bathroom (access via internal Proven experience in mobile development concrete & tiled staircase)] and lot [937.060 S.M.] situate on West Wind • Understanding of setting up firewalls and security certificates Drive, The Placencia Residences, Placencia Peninsula, Stann Creek District.) • Have proficient experience working with version control (e.g., Git, Bitbucket) 4. Parcel No. 2159 Placencia Residences, Placencia Peninsula, Stann Creek: • Experience with Firebase and Microsoft SQL database REGISTRATION SECTION BLOCK PARCEL • Experience in Flutter development Placencia North 36 2159 • Published 1 or more applications in Google Play, App Store, or Github • Working knowledge of the general mobile landscape, architectures, trends, and emerging technologies • Knowledge of Location Services, Maps, and other common iOS/Android libraries • Valid Driver’s License

(Being a canal side vacant lot situate in the sub-division known as The Placencia Residences near Mile 13 Placencia Road, Placencia Peninsula, Stann Creek DEADLINE FOR SUBMISSION OF ONLINE APPLICATIONS District, the freehold property of Mr. Ryan Pott). IS MONDAY 31 MAY 2021

*******NB. Restrictions on use of Property is available upon request******* ALL ONLINE APPLICATIONS MUST INCLUDE: TWO RECENT LETTERS OF REFERENCE FROM PAST ADDITIONAL INFORMATION - www.belizebank.com (foreclosure listing) EMPLOYERS AND A VALID POLICE RECORD TERMS: STRICTLY CASH KEVIN A. CASTILLO SEND APPLICATIONS AND SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS TO: TELEPHONE 223-4488 Website: belizepropertyauctions.com our website at: https://aicbelize.com/employment-application E-mail: [email protected] Face Book: Belize Auctions Page 16 AMANDALABelize Friday, May 21, 2021 A Strong Signal to the Region – Advancing Women’s Leadership

Institution: Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) Country: Belize Project: Solid Waste Management Project II (SWMPII) Sector: Waste Management Abstract: Individual Consulting Service for the post of Project Coordinator for the Solid Waste Management Project II. The Project Coordinator shall be responsible for the execution of the Solid Waste Management Project II (SWMP II). Loan No.: 3684/OC-BL Deadline: May 26, 2021

The Government of Belize (GOB) has received financing from the Inter- American Development Bank (IDB), towards the cost of the Solid Waste Management Project II and intends to apply part of the proceeds for an Individual Consultant in the capacity of Project Coordinator at the Belize Solid Waste Management Authority (BSWaMA) within the Ministry of Natural Resources, Petroleum and Mining.

The consulting services (“the Services”) include but will not be limited to the following activities: Port of Spain, Trinidad and A) SPECIFIC RESPONSIBILITIES Tobago – 14 May, 2021 (TTO): The The Project Coordinator is expected to perform the following responsibilities, but not limited to: • Supervision of the Design and Construction Supervision (D&CS) consultants to ensure that services rendered are in accordance Caribbean Women in Leadership with terms and conditions of the respective contract, (CIWiL) Regional Secretariat • General monitoring of the projects including adherence to reporting requirements to MNRPM, BSWaMA, and the Bank. celebrates and extends • Coordinate timely implementation of all aspects of the project with particular emphasis on specific activities described in the congratulations to Dr. Carla Barnett project documents such as some capacity building activities to the beneficiaries, monitoring and evaluation. on her appointment as the • Ensure the daily financial management of project in accordance with the approved budget. th • Ensure timely execution of administrative procedures for the project according to donor agent requirements. 8 Secretary General of the • Monitor and advise on risks to project implementation and make recommendations risk measures as required. Caribbean Community (CARICOM). • Provide timely and accurate reports to BSWaMA, MNRPM and donor agent on developments and progress within the projects. Dr. Barnett’s selection is historic as • Ensure adherence to administrative, project management and financial rules and regulations. she becomes the first woman to serve • Maintain accurate project filing systems covering all project activities. as Secretary General of the oldest • Update Project Execution Plan, as necessary. surviving integration movement in the • Ensure timely preparation of the Annual Operating Plan, Semi-Annual Progress Report and Portfolio Review Presentation. • Coordinate project procurement and logistics activities with administrative support personnel when necessary. developing world. • Support information dissemination activities and advocate for the project among key stakeholders Dr. Barnett, holds a PhD in Social • Maintain communication with key stakeholders. Sciences from the University of the • Liaise with the stakeholders during project closeout report submission and acceptance. West Indies, (Mona Campus) and has • Undertaking other related and relevant duties, as may be assigned by the BSWaMA Director. extensive experience at the executive B) QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE level of the public service in Belize The Project Coordinator shall possess a minimum of a BSc in any of the following disciplines: Civil Engineering, Environmental and throughout the Caribbean. Engineer, Quantity Surveying or related technical field. At least 10 years experience in the successful management of construction Notably, Dr. Barnett was also the first projects. woman to serve as Deputy Secretary General from 1997 to 2002. He shall be computer literate and possess expertise in modern software tools for planning, monitoring and management activities We applaud the appointment made including the preparation and use of: by Caribbean leaders at the 21st Network Planning Diagrams Special Meeting of CARICOM Critical Path Analysis particularly at a time when recent GANTT charts global events have caused us to Work Breakdown Structures renew our focus and efforts to create Working knowledge of IDB’s procurement policies and proficiency in written and oral Spanish will be an asset. a gender equal world. The The Program Coordinator shall show his experience to coordinate the functional activities of multiple actors and be a team appointment of Dr. Barnett is player. especially significant as women in the Caribbean remain under-represented SPECIFIC EXPERIENCE in positions of national and regional • At least 3 to 5 years of experience in project management, project implementation. decision-making and continue to face • Experience preparing reports to donors, clients, and coordinating the requirements to grant compliance with an agreement an asset. various barriers in accessing • Experience in monitoring, control, and evaluation of project leadership spaces. The appointment of Dr. Barnett is C) TERMS OF ENGAGEMENT a strong signal to our region and to The successful candidate will be employed on a full-time contractual basis. The duty station is the BSWaMA’s office in Belmopan, the world, that gender equality at the however, due to the COVID-19 pandemic the consultant is encouraged to work remotely. The initial contract period shall be six (6) months, subsequent extension will correlate with the last disbursement date of the loan as well as results of her/his performance highest levels of leadership can be appraisal. achieved. CIWiL continues to work with women and men all over the The Ministry of Natural Resources, Petroleum and Mining now invites eligible individual consultants to indicate their interest in Caribbean for the sustainable and providing the Services. Interested individual Consultants must provide information (curriculum vitae which include a description transformational development of our of relevant work experience, academic qualifications, references etc.) demonstrating that they have the required qualification and region, and particularly to remove the relevant experience to perform the Services. structural barriers to women’s full and Consultants will be selected in accordance with the procedures set out in the Inter-American Development Bank: Policies for the equal participation. We join with the Selection and Contracting of Consultants financed by the Inter-American Development Bank - GN-2350-15, and is open to all international community in continuing eligible candidates as defined in the policies. to call for increased participation of women in leadership and decision- The individual consultant will be selected in accordance with the Selection of Individual Consultants method set out in the Consultants Policies. making which is key to achieving gender equitable outcomes for our Further information can be obtained at the email address below during office hours: Monday to Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. societies. These commitments are local time. outlined in international instruments such as the Beijing Platform for Expressions of interest must be emailed (one (1) complete PDF file) to the address below by Wednesday, May 26, 2021. Action, CEDAW and the UN Solid Waste Management Authority Sustainable Development Goals. Attn: Mrs. Melanie Gladden, Procurement Officer Dr. Barnett is tasked with leading 3013 Bougainvillea Street, Orchid Garden Area CARICOM into a complex global City of Belmopan, Belize, C.A. environment and through the myriad Tel: (501) 802 1527 challenges brought about by the PO Box 285 E-mail: [email protected] Please turn to„Page 20 Friday, May 21, 2021 AMANDALABelize Page 17

Terms of Reference (TOR)

• Include roleplay/dramatizations

ü One-hour television programme with simulcast to social media. ü Adapted version for radio ü Hosted by dynamic energetic person(s) in sketch format ü Guided by National Parenting Guide provided by Parenting Taskforce ü 13 weeks duration o July– September(Season1) o October – December (Season 2)

Show Concept: Background ü Fictional family with type to be determined. The show follows this family Families are the basic unit of society and in most cases provide the best environment along the 13 weeks as they interact with each other in various scenarios for meeting a child’s developmental needs. The family not only provides care and that feature teachable moments. Other characters can be brought in the protection but also serves as that environment in which children learn to socialize role-playing segments as is needed for the lesson or activity. Ideal if these with others, learn about their culture and customs as well as develop their spirituality. episodes are around events and celebrations that will be happening during Experiences in the family unit associated with positive parenting aids in the the seasons it airs. (Eg. An episode that uses Easter as the theme and empowerment of children and focuses on the best interest of the child. However, incorporates this into the content and lessons being taught.) one must be cognizant of the fact that in today’s society, family influence is fragile and, in many instances, outnumbered by many other social forces. It is critical ü There can be interactions with leaders/teachers at a community center more than ever that families are aware of these social forces and use them to their that allows them to interact with children and parents and use that advantage in order to be that fundamental environment for the growth and wellbeing interaction to facilitate teachable moments. of all its members and in particular children. Segments: Parenting programs therefore are developed from the philosophy that nurturing § Informative and positive parenting skills are critical for effective child rearing practices. Parenting o 10-minute segments that teach a concept or principle education differs from parent support in that it is more commonly a learning § Creative activity designed to promote positive parenting practices. National assessment of o 5-minute segment that teaches a craft/skill or some other creative the social conditions among families in Belize illustrate that the erosion of paternal outlet. presence, poor financial stability and increase crime in urban areas are due to § Entertaining weak family structures coupled with parents who are unskilled to rear and support o 5-minute segment that entertains. Can be a game, song dance, children. Many experts agree that effective parents/caregivers should possess poem performance. certain knowledge, skills, attitudes and interpersonal abilities that promote parental § Include roleplay effectiveness. o Skits that are tied to the episode’s theme

1. It has also been strongly agreed that parent-child interaction is enhanced • Commercials will utilize videos created by NCFC, UNICEF, CRC etc. when parents display qualities of sensitivity, responsiveness, reciprocity and support. These basic parenting practices are universally applicable Estimated Duration of the Contract and cut across ethnic and economic classes. The duration of the contract is 6 months, with estimated date of commencement 2. It must be recognized, however, that how parents of diverse backgrounds July 2021. There should be 1 show per week at an interval of one hour per show. learn and practice parenting is highly individualized and associated with social, cultural and economic factors. Payment

Scope of Work Payments will be done based on delivery of finalized and approved deliverables. 1. Raise awareness around the priority issues outlined above (Parenting Guide Material) Workplan and concept of the show 10% 2. Inform and empower parents around their rights and opportunities for Production of scripts/storyboard for show on a weekly basis 30% support and engagement Video recording and adaption of show for radio 30% 3. Empower families to foster positive parenting skills Content development and facilitation/contract actors/presenters/teacher 30% 4. Share information on relevant laws and policies relating to families and children The National Committee for Families and Children reserves the right to withhold 5. Engage community and stakeholders on relevant issues affecting families all or a portion of payment if performance is unsatisfactory, if work/output is 6. Provide platform for partner institutions to share information pertinent to incomplete, not delivered, or for failure to meet deadlines. families 7. Ensure strong policy alignment across sectors for effective implementation Qualifications and Competencies 8. Create demand for social change among the community. The suitable candidates will have demonstrated experience in supporting development of similar multi-media content and leading the creation of this content Key Actions to support education, violence prevention, psychosocial support, gender, health • Develop, produce programme for television and radio with live intros and development programmes for children,adolescents and their families. Copies of conclusions to engage social media examples of this media content must be submitted along with the technical proposal. • Submit a timeline and storyboard for the completion and pre-recorded sessions of each episode of the TV program Supervision • Identify topics/guests/key experts in mental health, nutrition, psychosocial The selected consultant will be supervised by the Executive Director of the National support, ending violence against children and in parenting training guide Committee for Families and Children, under the guidance of the National Parenting (can integrate subject areas: literacy, numeracy, math, science, physical Task Force. education, creative arts etc.)for segments and facilitation • Participate in meetings with the NCFC and other key partners to finalize Applications the work plan, weekly show concepts and storyboards Contractors are invited to submit: • Promote and advertise show on social media • Record video/audio of the episodes 1. Technical proposal including methodology,copies of examples of this media • Produce the videos and share with NCFC for approval content and timelines for deliverables • Incorporate PSAs with key messages already produced by NCFC and 2. In a separate document: Financial proposal with detailed budget expenses. UNICEF for the COVID19 emergency/CRC, in each show. 3. Applications should be sent by Friday, 18 June 2021 to:

The show should be: National Committee for Families and Children • Informative #62 Cleghorn Street • Creative Belize City • Entertaining Email: [email protected] Page 18 AMANDALABelize Friday, May 21, 2021

Commonwealth of Nations

In 1946, the word “British” was On Friday, May 7, 2021, a very commonly known as the “Caste War”. dropped and the organization interesting article was published in the Therefore, permit me to share the became known as simply the Amandala under the following following with you all: Commonwealth of Nations. heading: “A Strategic Guide for Australia and New Zealand Defining Civil Society’s Role in Commonwealth of Nations adopted the Statute in 1942 and Implementing the UNCAC — Fixing 1947, respectively. With India’s the National Integrity Institutional by Matt Rosenberg independence in 1947, the new Framework,” by David Gibson. With country desired to become a all due respect, I don’t think any person Updated January 17, 2020 Republic and to not utilize the in this 21st century capitalistic society As the British Empire began its monarchy as their head of state. The year terms. The position of Secretary- is qualified to use the word “integrity”. process of decolonization and the London Declaration of 1949 modified General was established in 1965. The For many years, morality has been creation of independent states from the requirement that members must Commonwealth Secretariat has its taught by the representatives of God. former British colonies, there arose a view the monarchy as their head of headquarters in London and is However, it has been proven to be need for an organization of countries state to require that countries composed of 320 staff members from worthless. The monarchy system in formerly part of the Empire. In 1884, recognize the monarchy as simply the the member countries. The Belize has proven to be a children’s Lord Rosebery, a British politician, leader of the Commonwealth. With Commonwealth maintains its own flag. game with its rubber stamps. On described the changing British this adjustment, additional countries The purpose of the voluntary another note, let me say: Thank you, Empire as a “Commonwealth of joined the Commonwealth as they Commonwealth is for international Brother Colin Hyde, for your Nations.” Thus, in 1931, the British gained independence from the United cooperation and to advance comments in your article published in Commonwealth of Nations was Kingdom, so today there are fifty-four economics, social development, and the Amandala on Friday, May 14, founded under the Statute of member countries. Of the fifty-four, human rights in member countries. 2021, under the heading: “How, why, Westminster with five initial members thirty-three are republics (such as Decisions of the various did CC Luna have to go and spoil it?” — the United Kingdom, Canada, the India), five have their own monarchies Commonwealth councils are non- Yes, Brother Colin, you took me back Irish Free State, Newfoundland, and (such as Brunei Darussalam), and binding. The Commonwealth of to what the British historian Peter the Union of South Africa. (Ireland sixteen are a constitutional monarchy Nations supports the Commonwealth Ashdown wrote in the second edition permanently left the Commonwealth with the sovereign of the United Games, which is a sporting event held of the book Readings in Belizean in 1949, Newfoundland became part Kingdom as their head of state (such every four years for member History under the heading: “The of Canada in 1949, and South Africa as Canada and Australia). Although countries. A Commonwealth Day is Problem of Creole Histography.” I left in 1961 due to apartheid but membership requires having been a celebrated on the second Monday in personally have no tie with the British rejoined in 1994 as the Republic of former dependency of the United March. Each year carries a different so-called Commonwealth of Nations South Africa). Kingdom or a dependency of a theme, but each country can celebrate nor CARICOM. My navel string is Commonwealth of Nations dependency, former Portuguese the day as they choose. The population from ‘’The Social War of Yucatan,” Rebrand colony Mozambique became a of the 54 member states exceeds two member in 1995 under special billion, about 30% of the world circumstances due to Mozambique’s population (India is responsible for a willingness to support the majority of the Commonwealth’s Commonwealth’s fight against population).” apartheid in South Africa. Policies [email protected] The Secretary-General is elected by May 15, 2021 the Heads of Government of the Finca Solana membership and can serve two four- Corozal Town The Genesis of Modern politics - Part1

Many have the erroneous idea that Belize Town on September 10, 1931, the labour movement against injustices killing more than 1,000 people and by the working class is something new destroying at least three-quarters of the or recent. Unfortunately, some of our housing. The British relief response Belizean people suffer from the was tardy and inadequate. The British syndrome of forgetfulness, while government seized the opportunity to others lack historical knowledge. impose tighter control on the colony However, permit me to share the and endowed the governor with following: reserve powers, or the power to enact laws in emergency situations without The Genesis of Modern Politics, the consent of the Legislative Council. 1931-54 The Legislative Council resisted but eventually passed a resolution From countrystudies.us agreeing to give the governor reserve powers in order to obtain disaster aid. The Great Depression shattered the Meanwhile, people in the town were colony’s economy, and unemployment making shelters out of the wreckage increased rapidly. The Colonial of their houses. Report for 1931 stated that “contracts The economy continued to decline for the purchase of mahogany and in 1932 and 1933. The total value of chicle, which form the mainstay of the imports and exports in the latter year Colony, practically ceased altogether, was little more than one-fourth of what thereby throwing a large number of the it had been in 1929. The Belize Estate woodcutters and chicle-gatherers out and Produce Company survived the of work.” On top of this economic depression years because of its special disaster, the worst hurricane in the country’s recent history demolished Please turn to„Page 20 Friday, May 21, 2021 AMANDALABelize Page 19

VACANCY Global Fund Programme Manager

Location: Belmopan, Belize Application Deadline: Sunday, 30 May 2021. (Midnight New York, USA) Type of Contract: FTA Local Pre-classified Grade: NOB Expected Duration of Assignment: Nine (9) months renewable

Background: The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is the UN’s global development network, advocating for change and connecting countries to knowledge, experience and resources to help people build a better life. We are on the ground in 170 countries and territories, working with governments and people on their own solutions to global and national development challenges to help empower lives and build resilient nations. The Bureau for Policy and Programme Support (BPPS) has the responsibility for developing all relevant policy and guidance and supports the results of UNDP’s 2018- 2021 Strategic Plan, focusing on seven outcomes including, strengthening institutions to progressively deliver universal access to basic services (Outcome 3). The HIV, Health and Development Group (HHD Group), within BPPS, is helping to contribute towards this outcome. The HIV, Health and Development Strategy 2016-2021: ‘Connecting the Dots’ elaborates UNDP’s work on HIV and health in the context of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. UNDP is the interim PR for the Belize HIV/TB grant (the Grant, Programme) for the period 1 January 2019 – 31 December 2021. The goals of the Grant are: (1) new HIV infections among men who have sex with men account for a maximum of 30% of all new infections. (2) 80% of persons living with HIV, who are on ART, remain on ART. (3) To promptly find and completely cure 100% of cases of TB disease, including MDR-TB, while assuring that patients -especially persons living with HIV- benefit from broader preventive care. UNDP employs a rights-based, gender-transformative approach to achieving these goals, and implements the Grant in close coordination with the Pan-American Health Organization (PAHO), the Ministry of Health, CSOs, other national partners and other technical agencies. Under the overall supervision of the Deputy Resident Representative, the Programme Manager will be responsible for managing a team, achieving a high level of programme performance, coordinating and building strategic partnerships, providing policy and strategic technical guidance and engaging with partners to support strengthening of national systems and health institutions. This will be done in accordance with UNDP rules, policies and procedures and corporate agreements with the GF, and working in close coordination with national stakeholders, the National AIDS Committee (NAC)/ Country Coordinating Mechanism (CCM), National Tuberculosis Program (NTP), the GF (including Local Fund Agent), and technical and UN partners, the Regional Bureau, the GF/HIST and other UNDP programmes. The Programme Manager will promote a collaborative, client-oriented approach, ensuring integration across functional areas within the PMU, the Country Office, and works in close collaboration with the SRs and SSRs to ensure successful implementation and oversight of the GF resources. In addition, the Programme Manager will play the lead role in capacity development of national counterparts and the transition of the Programme.

Duties and Responsibilities: 1. Ensures strategic leadership, programme planning and effective management and oversight of Global Fund programme. 2. Ensures proactive financial, asset and health product management and oversight and controls are met and proactively performs risk assessments. 3. Ensures creation of strategic partnerships and support the implementation of the resource mobilization. 4. Ensures provision of strategic policy advice and technical guidance. 5. Ensures guidance and capacity building and facilitation of knowledge building and sharing. 6. Ensures effective monitoring and evaluation (M&E) of the Programme in line with UNDP’s grant agreement with the Fund and in accordance with UNDP’s rules, policies, procedures and rules and the Global Fund rules.

Education: • Undergraduate degree with 4 years’ experience or a Masters with 2 years in business, economics, international development, social sciences or public health, or any other relevant field. • Master’s degree in Public Health is an asset

Experience: • A minimum of 2 years of progressive relevant experience relevant experience in project management. • Knowledge of routine health information systems, and literacy in management information systems. • Experience working with Civil Society Organizations, particularly in Belize and/ or the Caribbean is an asset. • Knowledge of UN or UNDP rules, policies and procedures, is an asset. • Strong knowledge of Global Fund’s rules, policies and procedures, is an asset. • Experience in the management of health, HIV and/or TB programmes is an asset. • Experience in the usage of computers and office software packages, experience in handling web-based management systems.

Language Requirements: • Fluency in English both written and oral. • Working knowledge of Spanish both written and oral, is an asset.

Applications: UNDP is an equal opportunity employer and Women are strongly encouraged to apply.

To apply please go to: https://jobs.partneragencies.net/ erecruitjobs.html?JobOpeningId=36953&HRS_JO_PST_SEQ=1&hrs_site_id=2

Closing Date for submission of application is Sunday, May 30, 2021. (Midnight New York, USA). Only Candidates shortlisted for interviews will be notified. Page 20 AMANDALABelize Friday, May 21, 2021 The Genesis of Modern politics - Part1 (SECOND PUBLICATION)

IN THE SUPREME COURT OF BELIZE A.D. 2021 Continued from Page 18 villagers from their homes in San Jose „ and Yalbac in the northwest and treated CLAIM NO. 158 of 2021 connections in British Honduras and workers in mahogany camps almost BETWEEN: London. Since 1875 various members like slaves. Investigators of labor of the Hoare family had been principal conditions in the 1930s were appalled (AMERICAN REAL ESTATE INVESTMENT LLC CLAIMANT directors and maintained a controlling to discover that workers received ( interest in the company. Sir Samuel rations of inferior flour and mess pork (AND Hoare, a shareholder and former and tickets to be exchanged at the ( director, was a former British cabinet commissaries, in lieu of cash wages. (EDDIE USHER DEFENDANT member and a friend of Leo Amery, As a result, workers and their families TO: THE ABOVE-NAMED DEFENDANT the British secretary of state for the suffered from malnutrition and were colonies. In 1931, when the company continually in debt to their employers. TAKE NOTICE that an action has been commenced against you in the Supreme Court was suffering from the after-effects of The law governing labor contracts, of Belize, Claim No. 158 of 2021 by AMERICAN REAL ESTATE INVESTMENT the hurricane and the depression, the Masters and Servants Act of 1883, LLC of 2245 Keller Way, Carrollton, Texas, United Stated of America in which the family member Oliver V.G. Hoare made it a criminal offense for a laborer Claimant is seeking: contacted the Colonial Office to to breach a contract. The offense was discuss the possibility of selling the punishable by twenty-eight days of A. A Declaration that the Hemp Crude Distillation, Isolation and Extractor System is company to buyers in the United States. the property of the Claimant; imprisonment with hard labor. In 1931 The British government rescued the the governor, Sir John Burdon, rejected B. The delivery up / return of the said Hemp Crude Distillation, Isolation and Extractor company by granting it an area of proposals to legalize trade unions and System or US$2,550,000.00 being its replacement value and damages consequent virgin mahogany forest and a loan of to introduce a minimum wage and upon the wrongful interference with it by its detention; US$200,000 to erect a sawmill in sickness insurance. The conditions, Belize Town. aggravated by rising unemployment and C. Further or alternatively, damages for wrongfully converting the Claimant’s goods When the government almost the disastrous hurricane, were on or about December 2020 at Mile 7 Hummingbird Highway, Stann Creek District doubled the land tax, the large responsible for severe hardship among by utilizing and / or treating the Hemp Crude Distillation, Isolation and Extractor landowners refused to pay. The System as his own. the poor. The poor responded in 1934 government accepted some virtually with a series of demonstrations, strikes, D. Alternatively, damages. worthless land in lieu of taxes and in petitions, and riots that marked the 1935 capitulated completely, reducing beginning of modern politics and the E. Interest Pursuant to Section 166 of the Supreme court of Judicature Act of Belize. the tax to its former rate and annulling independence movement. Riots, strikes, the landowners’ arrears by making them and rebellions had occurred before, F. Cost. retroactive to 1931. But small during and after the period of slavery, landowners had paid their taxes, often but the events of the 1930s were G. Such further or other relief as the Court deems fit. at a higher rate. Robert Turton, the modern labor disturbances in the sense AND it has been Ordered that service of the Claim in the said action on the Defendant Creole millionaire who made his that they gave rise to organizations with be effected by this advertisement. If you desire to defend this action, you or your fortune from chicle exports, defeated articulate industrial and political goals. attorney must acknowledge service, by filing an acknowledgement of service at the C.H. Brown, the expatriate manager of In 1894 mahogany workers rioted office of the Supreme Court, no later than fourteen (14) days of the second publication the company, in the first elections for against a cut in their real wages caused of this NOTICE and file a Defence no later than twenty-eight (28) days of the second some of the Legislative Council seats by devaluation. In 1919 demobilized publication of this Notice. in 1936. After the elections, the Creole servicemen protested British governor promptly appointed Brown TAKE NOTICE that in default of your so doing, the said Claimants may proceed racism. But British troops soon stopped therein, and judgment may be given in your absence. to the council, presumably to maintain these spontaneous protests, which were the influence of what had for so long indicative of discontent but had little DATED the 11th day of May, 2021. been the colony’s chief business. But lasting effect. In contrast, a group calling Brown’s defeat by Turton, one of the itself the Unemployed Brigade marched ESTEVAN PERERA & COMPANY LLP company’s chief local business rivals, through Belize Town on February 14, Attorneys-at-Law for the Claimants marked the decline of old British 1934, to present demands to the Alpha Business Centre enterprises in relation to the rising governor and started a broad No. 2118 Guava Street Belize City, Belize Creole entrepreneurs with their United movement. Poor people, in desperation, States commercial connections. turned to the governor, who responded PER: RENE A. MONTERO Meanwhile, the Belize Estate and by creating a little relief work—stone- Produce Company drove Mayan breaking for US$0.10 a day.

(To be Continued)

[email protected] May 15, 2021 Finca Solana Corozal Town A Strong Signal to the Region – Advancing Women’s Leadership Continued from „Page 16 COVID 19 pandemic. As with most crises and natural disasters, these challenges often affect women and girls disproportionately and worsen pre-existing vulnerabilities. This reality must be distinctly addressed. CIWiL looks forward to joining with CARICOM, governments and other stakeholders to continue the important work to increase access and equitable participation in decision making at all levels which is essential in promoting democracy, gender equality and good governance. Friday, May 21, 2021 AMANDALABelize Page 21 THE GARIFUNA MUST EXERCISE THEIR LAND RIGHTS

“Yurumein”, now known as Saint Vincent & The Grenadines, in March of 1797 and their transfer to the island of Roatan, Honduras, where they landed on April the 12th of that year. They decided to do this for the following reasons: 1. After they defeated the French in 1763, which ended the French and Indian Seven Year Wars, France unlawfully gave them the island of Saint Vincent, a sovereign nation, and other territories that they had unlawfully colonized. 2. They were tired of the resistance from the Garifuna people from 1772 to brought the Garifuna people to the Bay Occupation. 1796 in defense of their nation and wanted Islands, was to use the Garifuna people In the treaty that Britain signed with to remove them from this planet. to fight with them against the Spanish in Spain in 1763, they were only allowed to by Wellington C. Ramos 3. The British were also forcefully the region. cut logwood and mahogany in Belize and occupying the Bay Islands in Honduras, 5. They wanted the Garifuna people not to exercise control and ownership The British Crown, under the which was considered Spanish territory to occupy lands in the region, including over the territory of British Honduras, leadership of King George III, was as a result of the Treaty of Tordesillas in Belize, that belonged to Spain so that they now known as Belize. Also, the territory responsible for the forced removal of our 1494 between Spain and Portugal. could claim the territories for themselves in Belize was only from the Rio Hondo Garifuna people from their nation state, 4. The reason that the British under the legal concept of Effective River to the Sibun River, which was under the jurisdiction of the Spanish Governor in Quintana Roo Province, Mexico. From that point to the Sarstoon River, that area was under the jurisdiction of the Spanish Governor in Peten, Guatemala. The British had no intention at the time to make Belize one of their colonies, because they could have included Belize in this treaty and several other treaties, especially the Godolphin Treaty of 1670 (The Treaty of Spain). The following is stated online at https:/ /belize.com/belizean-history-the-1763- treaty-between-spain-and-britain: “The Spanish gave permission to the British to cut logwood and also Mahogany as far south as the Sibun River. It expressly forbade the British from building any fortification, setting up any formal government or doing any agricultural works, or any other productive economic activities apart from wood cutting.” In 1802 when the British granted the Garifuna people permission to come to Belize, they had them settling in the area that was under the control of the Spanish Crown. Spain had the authority to remove the Garifuna people from this area, but did nothing. From 1802 to 1821 when Guatemala achieved its independence from Spain, the Garifuna people lived autonomously without any interference or support from the British, Spanish or Guatemalan governments. All the Garifuna people who were born in the territory during that period of time were still citizens of their homeland, Saint Vincent & the Grenadines. The Spanish and the Guatemalan governments could have granted the Garifuna people Spanish, and then subsequently Guatemalan citizenship, but they did not. In 1859 Guatemala signed a treaty with Great Britain granting the southwestern part of Belize to Great Britain. The Garifuna people, under International Law, had the right to declare what they wanted to do with their lives, under Self-Determination of a people, but did not. In 1862 Britain made Belize a colony of theirs, and then moved to exercise jurisdiction over the Garifuna people. The right of a people to self- determination is a cardinal principle in modern international law (commonly regarded as a jus cogens rule), binding, Please turn to„Page 22 Page 22 AMANDALABelize Friday, May 21, 2021 THE GARIFUNA Request for Proposal – Individual Consultancy MUST EXERCISE Consultancy to Develop A National Capacity Development Plan (NCDP) in Response to Violence THEIR LAND Against Women and Girls (VAWG) and Family Violence RIGHTS Background: The Spotlight Initiative is a global, multi-year initiative launched by the European Union and the United Nations to eliminate all forms of violence against women and girls (VAWG). This initiative galvanizes political commitment at the highest levels and contributes to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), specifically Goal Continued from „Page 21 5: Gender Equality, fully integrating the principle of “Leave No One Behind.” The initiative focuses on domestic and family violence and seeks to contribute to ending family violence by strengthening policy and legislations as such, on the United Nations, as that will guarantee increased protection of women and girls, building the capacity of state and non-state actors authoritative interpretation of the Charter’s to respond to family violence, expanding the range of services available and addressing social norms and norms. It states that people, based on behaviors that promote violence against women and girls. respect for the principle of equal rights and fair equality of opportunity, have the This terms of reference under the technical guidance and management of United Nations Development right to freely choose their sovereignty. Programme (UNDP) will seek to addresses these identified challenges through Activity 2.1.1: which aims to In all the discussions between Great support a consultancy to conduct a capacity assessment at the individual and institutional levels of relevant key Britain, Spain, Belize and Guatemala over state actors and CSOs to respond to family violence and develop a costed national capacity development plan the disputed territory in the south and based on findings from the capacity assessment. western part of Belize, nothing has been mentioned about the length of time that Objectives, Duties and Responsibilities: the Garifuna people have been living in Under the supervision of the UNDP Programme Officer of the Governance Unit. that area, prior to the independence of (i) Conduct stakeholder analysis to determine who should be involved and the nature of their involvement Guatemala on September the 15th 1821 (roles, responsibilities, accountabilities, direct or indirect involvement). The scope of actors from the and Belize’s independence on September mapping of state and non-state actors will form a stakeholder base for this analysis along with feedback the 21st 1981. They are all acting as if the and recommendations from previous consultations. Garifuna people do not have rights to the (ii) Offer methodology (conceptual framework based on the UNDPs Capacity Assessment and Development lands in the area that they have been Tool) that would capture capacities and readiness of individuals/institutions/societal (availability, occupying for centuries. Indigenous accessibility, responsiveness, adaptability, appropriateness, quality and gaps identified), including rights granted to the Mayas will have to financial and physical deficiency assets. The Capacity Assessment Tool will assist in determining be granted to the Garifuna people as well, readiness of the different sectors including but not limited to the priority sector such as the Judiciary, because they are also indigenous people, Police Department, Social Workers, Health Care providers, CSOs and other relevant organizations. who have been living on their lands prior Based on the findings and gaps identified by the Capacity Assessment develop recommendations for to Guatemala and Belize becoming national capacity development. independent nations. (iii) Develop a costed NCDP guided by the results and recommendations of the mapping exercise, stakeholder Not only were the Garifuna people analysis and identified areas for prioritization. living on their lands, but they were also (iv) Facilitate validation sessions with stakeholders on the draft NCDP inclusive of gaps, recommendations, using their territories customarily for their readiness assessment and costing. survival. Farming, fishing, hunting and many other types of cultural activities have Expected Outputs and Deliverables been taking place since their arrival to the The following will be the expected outputs: southern part of Belize centuries ago. a. Submission and Presentation of Inception Report outlining Conceptual framework, methodology and Even though the Garifuna people are work plan breakdown structure entitled to their lands, the government of b. Interim Report on Capacity Assessment and Capacity Development field consultation visits Belize will not give it to them, unless they c. Draft Capacity Development Plan inclusive of gaps and recommendations from capacity assessment assert their rights to their lands like the d. Conduct Validation sessions with key stakeholders Maya people did. This will require e. Final Costed Capacity Development Plan informing the Belize Government that they intend to assert their rights to their lands. Qualification, Experience and Skills: When the British Crown granted Crown • Master’s Degree in Gender Studies or Social Sciences Lands to the Maya and Garifuna people • At least 5 years’ experience in research in the field of social science or working on gender related issues, in 1872, these groups took it for granted including gender-based violence prevention, monitoring of gender-based violence and human right that the Government of Belize would programs and response programming never infringe on their land rights. • Strong communication, writing and analytical skills both qualitative and quantitative However, since Belize became • Proven record of similar assessments and conducting capacity development plans or activities independent on September the 21st 1981, • Good knowledge of and understanding of working in the Belizean framework with issues related to both the PUP and UDP governments have gender equality and women’s empowerment been using, leasing, taking away and selling Maya and Garifuna lands without • Excellent interpersonal skills: culturally and socially sensitive; sensitivity to and ability to work with marginalized populations their consent and approval. Judge Conteh ruled in favor of the Maya people in 2007 for them to have Request for Proposal Package located: rights to their lands. His ruling also Please download the RFP package at http://procurement-notices.undp.org/ Reference No 78446or at http://www.bz.undp.org/content/belize/en/home/operations/procurement.html/ stipulated that their lands be surveyed and mapped out and that the government of Submission of Application Package: Belize pass the Indigenous Land Rights Proposals are required to submit by email or in 1 sealed envelope clearly labeled RFP: Consultancy to Act on behalf of these two indigenous Develop A National Capacity Development Plan (NCDP) in Response to Violence Against Women and groups. The Belize government appealed Girls (VAWG) and Family Violence the decision to the Belize Court of Appeals and the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) United Nations Development Programme and lost both appeals. The government Attn: Procurement Associate of Belize has not yet convened a legislative 3rd Floor, Lawrence Nicholas Building. Belmopan session to pass this law in the Belize Cayo District, Belize, C.A. National Assembly. What the government Tel: (501) 822-2688, 0467, 4228 of Belize is doing by being in contempt Email: [email protected] of court is baffling to the average citizen. When a government refuses to abide by Deadline for Application: Monday, May 24, 2021 at 5:00 p.m. a court order, they are in violation of the very constitution they swear to uphold. UNDP is committed to achieving workforce diversity in terms of gender, nationality and culture. Individuals from minority groups, The longer the government of Belize takes indigenous groups and persons with disabilities are equally encouraged to apply. All submissions will be treated with the strictest to pass the Indigenous Land Rights Act, of confidence. the worse the situation will become. The UNDP does not tolerate sexual exploitation and abuse, any kind of harassment, including sexual harassment, and discrimination. Garifuna and Maya people will not give up on their land rights, because land is gold, and they need it to survive. Friday, May 21, 2021 AMANDALABelize Page 23 BPO Operations Director Qualifications

• Bachelor’s (Preferred) • Management Experience: 7 years (Preferred) • Leadership Experience: 7 years (Preferred) Full Job Description

Operations Director Employment Type – Full-time Job Function – Operations Job Description -BPO Operations Director - Belize City

Our company is owned and operated by Americans living in the Philippines. We are looking for a dynamic leader; Someone who has led call center teams and is excited about opening up our new office in Belize.

The Operations Director will be in charge of getting our new office open and up and running. In this dynamic and fast-paced role, you will assume responsibility for all operations in this facility.

You will source and oversee all aspects of opening a new office. Once up and running, you will coordinate and work in conjunction with our client services team to deliver world-class results to our clients. You will demonstrate a commitment to excellence and collaborate well with Senior Leadership. You are expected to meet the company’s objectives, in addition to having a passion for both people and performance, as well as a proven record of successful strategic planning and implementation. You will provide direction and development. You will work with Senior Leadership to formulate policies and strategic plans for future growth, manage daily operations of personnel and improve operational efficiency in targeted areas including customer support and engagement.

As the Operations Director, you will also directly coordinate with managers of key support teams in the areas of Training & Quality, HR, Recruitment, and Facilities. It is expected that you are highly collaborative and can build cross- functional relationships with departmental heads and management across the business. You will partner with leadership to maintain an efficient team structure and performance, using analytics, processes, and tools. You will maximize client engagements and work with your leadership team to develop plans to meet the future needs of the organization.

Requirements • Bachelor’s degree graduate (preferred but not mandatory) • At least 5 years of leadership experience in a BPO setting – working knowledge of BPO/Call Center and performance/operations metrics • Proven management skills with ability to analyze issues or customer complaints and provide solution in a tactful manner • Demonstrable competency in strategic planning and business growth VACANCY • Able to work independently and provide support on flexible hours/working days • Demonstrated leadership and interpersonal skills KREM Television is seeking applications from suitable • Well organized, proactive, constructive and capable to motivate teamwork candidates for the post of REPORTER to be stationed in Belize • Has excellent stakeholder management, decision making, problem solving and analysis skills City. • Fluent in both spoken and written English • Amenable to work on a flexible shift and National public holidays Requirements: • Bilingual an advantage (English and Spanish) • Start up experience an advantage but not required - Minimum of an Associate Degree in English; a Bachelor’s Job Type: Full-time Degree would be a plus Pay: Industry rate based on your experience plus additional compensation per - Excellent command of the English language with strong agreement. interpersonal communication skills - Disciplined, inquisitive, go-getter and enjoys research Benefits: • Health insurance - Willing to work long hours • Paid time off - Willing to learn Schedule: - Works well under pressure • Monday to Friday or as agreed upon Education: - Is a team player • Bachelor’s (Preferred) Experience: Send a copy of your resume with two letters of recommendation • Management Experience: 5 years (Preferred) • Leadership Experience: 5 years (Preferred) to: Work Location: • Belize City Human Resource Manager Send resumes and contact KREM Television Mike Riek at: [email protected] and 3304 Partridge Street Edward Moore at: [email protected] Belize City Website: Customized Outsourcing | Peak Outsourcing Or e-mail to: https://www.PeakOutsouricng.com [email protected] Facebook: (1) PeakOutsourcing Careers | Facebook https://www.facebook.com/PeakOutsouricngCareers Deadline for applications is Monday, June 7, 2021. Page 24 AMANDALABelize Friday, May 21, 2021

VACANCY

Copal Tree Lodge, a luxury eco-lodge located in Punta Gorda Town, Toledo district, Belize is looking for qualified candidates to fill the following position.

Maintenance Technician Level II Description: Under the leadership of the maintenance supervisor/ maintenance engineer, the Maintenance Technician level II will undertake the responsibility to install, maintain and troubleshoot a variety of equipment at the facility such as, HVAC installations, pool pumps, submersible well pumps, wireless pump control systems, solar power systems, basic and advanced plumbing, reverse osmosis water treatment plant, bulk ice production machines and any additional duties assigned.

Skills & experience • Proven experience as maintenance technician • In-depth Understanding of electrical systems such as 3 phase 220V/480V, single phase 120V/240V systems and basic PLC controls. Mechanical systems such as gear boxes, diesel generators, pumps & motors, HVAC (Split unit AC systems, Central AC systems (knowledge of advanced refrigeration systems is an asset), ability to read and interpret mechanical & electrical schematics/diagrams. • Knowledge of general maintenance processes and methods in health & safety. • In-depth knowledge of basic and advanced plumbing in PVC, CPVC, galvanized metal, carbon steel and copper (knowledge of basic welding is an asset) • Basic understanding of Air conditioning (Types of refrigerant gases, electrical controls, tools, copper brazing, flaring, etc). • Working knowledge of tools, common appliances, and devices. • Experience working with bulk ice production machines, reverse osmosis water treatment systems, multimedia filtration systems, water softeners, pool sand filter systems. • Basic Knowledge of mechanical systems such as heavy-duty diesel generators,basic vehicle maintenance, industrial washing machines, industrial dryers, and commercial kitchen equipment. • Manual dexterity and problem-solving skills. • Basic knowledge of water and water pumping systems (centrifugal pumps, multi-stage submersible pumps, chemical dosing pumps,basic pump controls such as contactors, relays, capacitors, wireless pump controls. Plumbing, metering, water treatment chemicals, etc. • Good physical condition and strength with a willingness to work overtime.

QUALIFICATIONS • Highschool diploma or vocational certificate in electrical or mechanical. • 5+years’ experience working with commercial or industrial equipment in a hotel, factory, or similar setting. • Computer literate. • Able to work autonomously. • Good problem-solving skills.

REQUIREMENTS • Clean police record (no older than 6 months). • Able to follow instructions from maintenance supervisor/ engineer. • Must live within reasonable distance of the facility for on call duties. • Social Security card. • Valid driver’s license. • Honesty, dedication, positive attitude and being a team player is an absolute requirement!

EmailCover letter, updated resume, 2 recent recommendation letters, recent police record, copy of valid driver’s license, valid social security card and copies of certificates/diplomas to [email protected]

Deadline for application is June 4th, 2021. Friday, May 21, 2021 AMANDALABelize Page C35 Vaccination efforts in the south

by Dayne Guy

GRAHAM CREEK, Toledo District, Wed. May 19, 2021 As part of its effort to vaccinate residents of the country who live in remote areas, the Ministry of Health and Wellness visited the village of Graham Creek to carry out vaccinations. Of the 100 persons who inhabit the village, only four opted to receive the vaccine. When interviewed by local media, Dr. Natalia Beer, Maternal and Child Health Technical Advisor in the Ministry of Health and Wellness, noted that information is an important part of the vaccination plan. While the number of vaccinations in Graham Creek has been subpar, the Health Ministry intends to continue working with these villages and plans to boost its educational outreach to ultimately address any fears about the vaccine that villagers might have. “We can’t close our eyes to the 10,000 cases we had last year, and those 300 deaths we had last year,” said Dr. Beer. “So if there is a vaccine against COVID-19, why would you expose yourself to being infected, having the probability of getting severely ill and even dying, when it can be prevented with a vaccine?” Dr. Beer further said. Dr. Beer also cited the proven track record of vaccines and mentioned the fact that the vaccine for polio was discovered approximately 60 years ago, and since 1981 (40 years ago), Belize has not diagnosed another case of that disease. The Ministry of Health and Wellness will continue visiting remote areas as a part of its vaccination outreach program. Cricket Corner

Continued from „Page B to bat. It was not Summer Fever’s day, as at the fall of 4 wickets Bandits had batted 165. Learon Muslar scored 64, and Glenford “Bling” Banner, 32. Kenton Young took 2 wickets. That’s the first in the best-of-three for the Bandits. These two teams will meet again on Saturday at Landing. If Summer Fever wins, then a third game will be played to determine a champ. I guess the Fever Boys had done a thorough autopsy to find out what went wrong, and team Bandits might have done the same to find out what was done right. To all teams playing this Saturday I say, best of luck! KEEP YOUR EYES ON THE BALL! That’s all, folks. Continue to follow the Covid-19 protocols and be safe. Bye Bye for now! Page D36 AMANDALABelize Friday, May 21, 2021

population, especially at-risk assistance and the implementation of individuals, to undergo regular check- stricter policies that Belize has greatly ups and testing at minimal costs. improved its management of the I arrived in Taiwan just before the outbreak, despite the alarming number COVID-19 pandemic began, but even of cases in neighboring countries. with its close proximity to Mainland It is evident that the measures taken China, and amid the increasing number by the government and people of Belizean doctor says of cases and overwhelming death toll Taiwan were effective in the control worldwide, Taiwan’s overall number of COVID-19 within its borders; and Taiwan can help of positive cases remained among the they have also successfully exported lowest in the world. This is attributed their expertise to assist their allies, Dear Editor, both public and private healthcare to early preparedness, health expertise including my country, Belize. As the During the past year, I have been facilities through its efficient National and preventative measures that have world continues to battle COVID-19, living in Taiwan and working in Far Health Insurance system. Healthcare were implemented by the government. the WHO/WHA should seek to be more Eastern Memorial Hospital, where I in Taiwan is based on prevention and Throughout the pandemic, Taiwan has inclusive of all the available expertise have garnered firsthand experience early disease detection and with this been offering critical support to health and best practices to guide global health with Taiwan’s exemplary healthcare objective, the government in officials in Belize in terms of policies: Taiwan can help! system. Citizens and residents of partnership with local hospitals and preparedness and management of cases Taiwan are provided with affordable clinics conducts regular campaigns as well as aiding with supplies and Dr. Tefarra Smith access to state-of-the-art services at nationwide that help to encourage the equipment. It is with Taiwan’s Belizean doctor

PUBLIC AUCTION SALES: PROPERTIES DFC Housing Site, San Pedro, Ambergris Caye; Bullet Tree Falls Village; Frank’s Eddy Agricultural Layout; Moun- tain Pine Ridge; TeaKettle; Santa Familia & Cayo District

BY ORDER of Messrs. the Mortgagees Heritage Bank Limited, Licensed Auction- ALL THOSE the premises comprised in and granted by the Minister responsible for eers Kevin A. Castillo and Christiana R. Castillo are selling ONLINE via national lands to WILLIAM LINDO by the Minister’s belizepropertyauctions.com the following properties. Sales currently running and Fiat (Grant) dated the 8th day of January 2008 and will expire on Monday 31st May 2021 at times listed on the website. numbered 1298 of 2007 and registered at the Land Titles Unit in the City of Belmopan and containing 1. Parcel No. 2867 DFC Housing Site, San Pedro, Ambergris Caye, Belize 346.31 acres of land situate South of the Western District: Highway, near Mile 39, Frank’s Eddy Agricultural Layout, Cayo District, bounded and described as shown on the Plan No. 1298 of 2007 attached to the said Fiat TOGETHER with all building and erections standing and being thereon. (Being a vacant parcel of land containing 346.31 acres situate approximately 5 REGISTRATION SECTION BLOCK PARCEL ½ Miles South of the George Price (Western) San Pedro 7 2867 Highway) in the Frank’s Eddy Agricultural Layout, Cayo District, the freehold property of Mr. William Lindo) (Being a two and a half storey timber/concrete residential/commercial building and lot [885.916 S.M. or 1059.55 S.Y.] situate in the DFC Housing Site, San Pedro, 4. 4.963 acres Privassion Enclave, Mountain Pine Ridge, Cayo District: Ambergris Caye, Belize District, the freehold property of Mr. Juan Alamilla) ALL THAT lot, piece or parcel of land being Block No. 86 2. Lots Nos. 49, 50, 51, 52, 53 & 54 25.458 Bullet Tree Falls Village, Cayo containing 4.963 acres situate in the Privassion Enclave, District: Mountain Pine Ridge Area, Cayo District as shown on Plan Entry No. 8313 Register No. 22 lodged at the Office of the Commissioner of Lands and Surveys Belmopan TOGETHER with all buildings and erections standing and being thereon. (Being 4.963 acres of vacant land situate in the Privassion Enclave, Mountain Pine Ridge, Cayo District, the freehold property of Mr. Barry Goldberg) a.) ALL THAT PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND being Lot No. 49 situate in Bullet Tree Falls Village, Cayo District containing 650.571 S.M. held by Minister’s Fiat Grant 5. 59.481 acres 4.5 kilometers North of George Price Highway, Teakettle Village, No. 351 of 2012 TOGETHER WITH ALL BUILIDNG AND ERECTIONS STANDING Cayo District: AND BEING THEREON. (Being vacant lot No. 49 situate in Bullet Tree Falls Village, Cayo District, the freehold property of Ms. Carla Requena) b.) ALL THAT PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND being Lot No. 50 situate in Bullet Tree Falls Village, Cayo District containing 650.571 S.M. held by Minister’s Fiat Grant No. 453 of 2012 TOGETHER WITH ALL BUILIDNG AND ERECTIONS STANDING AND BEING THEREON. (Being vacant lot No. 50 situate in Bullet Tree Falls Village, Cayo District, the freehold property of Ms. Rosalba I. Lemus) c.) ALL THAT PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND being Lot No. 51 situate in Bullet Tree REGISTRATION SECTION BLOCK PARCEL Falls Village, Cayo District containing 650.571 S.M. held by Minister’s Fiat Grant Society Hall 24 3893 No. 347 of 2012 TOGETHER WITH ALL BUILIDNG AND ERECTIONS STANDING AND BEING THEREON. (Being vacant lot No. 51 situate in Bullet Tree Falls Village, (Being 59.481 acres of land used as a gravel pit situate 4.5 kilometers North of the Cayo District, the freehold property of Mr. William Garcia) George Price (Western) Highway at the Village of Teakettle, Cayo District, the freehold d.) ALL THAT PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND being Lot No. 52 situate in Bullet Tree property of Mr. Ephriam Usher) Falls Village, Cayo District containing 650.571 S.M. held by Deed of Conveyance dated 16th February 2012 TOGETHER WITH ALL BUILIDNG AND ERECTIONS 6. Santa Familia Village, Cayo District: STANDING AND BEING THEREON. (Being vacant lot No. 52 situate in Bullet Tree Falls Village, Cayo District, the freehold property of Mr. William Garcia & Ms. Carla Garcia) e.) ALL THAT PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND being Lot No. 53 situate in Bullet Tree Falls Village, Cayo District containing 645.923 S.M. held by Deed of Conveyance dated 16th February 2012 TOGETHER WITH ALL BUILIDNG AND ERECTIONS STANDING AND BEING THEREON. (Being vacant lot No. 53 situate in Bullet Tree ALL THAT LEASEHOLD lot piece or parcel of land situate in the Village of Santa Falls Village, Cayo District, the freehold property of Mr. William Garcia & Ms. Carla Familia in the Cayo District described as follows: On the Northeast for 30.340 metres Garcia) by a Street; On the Southeast for 41.775 metres by Lot No. 156; On the Southwest for f.) ALL THAT PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND being Lot No. 54 situate in Bullet Tree 27.437 metres by a Street and On the Northwest for 54.741 metres by Lot No. 158 Falls Village, Cayo District containing 650.571 S.M. held by Minister’s Fiat Grant containing 1323.802 Square Metres as shown on Plan No. 1897B at the Office of the No. 359 of 2012 TOGETHER WITH ALL BUILIDNG AND ERECTIONS STANDING Commissioner of Lands and Surveys TOGETHER with all buildings and erections AND BEING THEREON. (Being vacant lot No. 54 situate in Bullet Tree Falls Village, standing and being thereon. (Being a concrete bungalow dwelling house and lot situate Cayo District, the freehold property of Ms. Carlos Requena) in the Village of Santa Familia in the Cayo District, the leasehold property of Mr. g.) ALL THAT PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND being Lot No. 55 situate in Bullet Tree Millard Tun) Falls Village, Cayo District containing 650.571 S.M. held by Minister’s Fiat Grant No. 348 of 2012 TOGETHER WITH ALL BUILIDNG AND ERECTIONS STANDING TERMS: STRICTLY CASH AND BEING THEREON. (Being vacant lot No. 55 situate in Bullet Tree Falls Village, KEVIN A. CASTILLO Cayo District, the freehold property of Ms. Leily Baca) TELEPHONE: 223-4488 Website: belizepropertyauctions.com 3. 346.31 acres approx. 5 ½ Miles South of the George Price Highway, Frank’s Email: [email protected] Eddy Agricultural Layout, Cayo District: FACEBOOK: Belize Auctions Friday, May 21, 2021 AMANDALABelize Page 25 The greatest scam the GOB ever pulled

by Joseph Guerrero stretched from the Rio Hondo to its most signing of the 1859 border treaty the years ago, and be charged now, today, southern point, the Sibun River. The Maya had their human rights — that for lands that at the time of their In the classic movie, The Usual territory between Sibun River and their rights pre-existed the border treaty settlement were not a part of the nation Suspects, the antagonist Keyser Sosa Sarstoon River was not a part of the of 1859. This concept also applies to that would become Belize? What’s tells his interrogators at the police territory won in that famous battle. That the Garifuna, who were not a part of more, the GOB sells Garifuna land, in station, “the greatest trick the Devil ever territory, between the Sibun and the Maya land rights case. We in Belize an unabated manner, to Garifuna buyers pulled was to convince the world he Sarstoon, would not be officially have always respected the culture of and to others. Garifuna territories that didn’t exist.” recognized as a part of the Belize the Maya. Our history books tell us of have been settled on or acquired The Garifuna settled in Southern settlement until the 1859 Border Treaty. their great prehistory in what is today through the years include but are not Belize at a time when it was not a part Before the Treaty of 1859 between Belize. The Garifuna, on the other hand, limited to : Dangriga, Punta Gorda, of the settlement. Sue Noe, in her Guatemala and the British, two distinct who occupied their territories prior to Georgetown, Seine Bight, Hopkins and research article on the topic of Garifuna groups lived there. They were not the 1859 treaty, have been lied to and Barranco. The rights of any Garifuna land rights, said that she found indigenous. The Maya and the Garifuna. have been bamboozled out of their who lives in these territories and has documents that made her suspect The Maya of Belize are our first peoples rights in Belize. had to pay for land in those areas, were settlement of Garifuna in the territory today. The Garifuna were resettling as The Garifuna have been looked at violated. south of the Belize Settlement as early early as 1799, according to the Sue Noe erroneously as former slaves of Another result of the Maya Land as 1799. This is within the year document, within the territory south of colonial masters. That was never true. Rights Case was that the Maya, as a following the Battle of St. George’s the Sibun River. Neither group was Garifuna leaders have been convinced collective, as a part of their human Caye. indigenous until 1859, when the Border for the greater part of the last two rights, had a right to own their land While we celebrate that famous Treaty was signed between the hundred years that their legal rights as collectively. The same, again, is true battle annually, which won the territory aforementioned Guatemala and the human beings did not exist. for the Garifuna’s land, which they by a force of arms from Spain, what British. How could the Garifuna for all these occupied before colonialism. The exactly was the territory won by the Judge Conteh, in his judgment, years be charged for land occupied by governments of neither the British nor famous Baymen in 1798? That territory would later say that at the time of the or acquired by their ancestors over 200 Belize today, were present at all when the Maya and Garifuna were occupying their territories. After signing an 1859 treaty with Guatemala, the British set out to charge the Garifuna for land they were using before that treaty was signed. Nonsense! A major part of the Garifuna’s dysfunctional practice of continuing to pay GOB for land they own is that many must not know they do not have to pay GOB for land they have inherited through generations for 200 years. Neither does GOB have any right to sell land already owned, nor does it have a right to title that land from its original owners — in this case, the Garifuna. In some places in Hopkins, the government puts a price of $40,000 for a lot on land owned by the Garifuna. No, this is a violation of our rights. We already own Hopkins. The Garifuna keep playing along with the Government of Belize and are competing for land they own with foreigners and wealthy Belizeans rather than simply asserting their rights, through a court of law, to their land. Thus, the greatest trick, these last 200 years, that the Government of Belize ever pulled, was to convince the Garifuna that their rights did not exist.

VACANCY

VACANCY: evanSale.com is seeking English-speaking reps to work from home, part or full time. evanSale is the fastest growing firm in the U.S. specializing in ‘virtual assistants’ and tele calling. Salary + Bonus are paid. Please email your resume to [email protected] NOTICE

NOTICE: If drinking is a problem and the problem is drinking. There is a solution. A group of us who have recovered from drugs and alcohol are here to help. Call 633-2849. Page 26 AMANDALABelize Friday, May 21, 2021

Debo señalar aquí que es un contrainterrogatorio del Sr. Michael beliceños no se dan cuenta de Said el ideólogo comprometido, se retiró motivo de pesar que el tribunal no Young, S. C., el abogado letrado del Musa es que perdió cuatro de las del Partido Unido del Pueblo (PUP) haya tenido el beneficio de ningún acusado, el Sr. Osborne, tuvo que primeras cinco elecciones en las que para trabajar, más o menos a tiempo testimonio del señor Said Musa, del admitir que el Sr. Musa era, en sus participó, entre 1974 y 1984 (estas completo, con la Sociedad para la bufete de abogados Musa y propias palabras, “el principal fueron tres elecciones generales, una Promoción de la Educación y la Balderamos. El demandante no se comunicador” del arreglo. elección del Concejo Municipal de Investigación (SPEAR en inglés) de basó en su declaración testimonial la Ciudad de Belize y una convención inclinación ideológica. Said comenzó que fue presentada. Sin embargo, de - del párrafo 21 de la sentencia del nacional del entonces gobernante a prestar más atención a su la declaración testimonial del Sr. Tribunal Supremo de Belize por el Partido Unido del Pueblo). Durante asociación legal de la Calle North Philip Osborne se desprende que el presidente del Tribuna Supremo este período, fue un compañero de Front con Randolph Balderamos, Sr. Musa y su bufete de abogados, Abdulai O. Conteh, en relación con Assad Shoman, y los dos fueron pero permaneció activo en su distrito Musa y Balderamos, desempeñaron el Reclamo No. 519 de 2007 entre considerados inseparables como electoral de Fort George y en el un papel crucial en la Sagis Investments Limited amigos. opositor PUP posterior a 1984. intermediación del arreglo entre el (Demandante) y Radio KREM Pero mi opinión es que Said no era Ralph Fonseca regresó a casa demandante y el acusado; véanse en Limited (Demandado) - 27 de mayo el ideólogo que era Assad, por lo que desde Canadá después de que su padre particular los párrs. 18 a 23 de la de 2008. cuando perdieron sus respectivos muriera en un trágico accidente de primera declaración de testigo de escaños en la Cámara en las tráfico en 1979. Ralph Fonseca se Osborne. De hecho, bajo el Lo que la gran mayoría de los elecciones generales de 1984, Assad, convirtió en el director ejecutivo de la compañía de cerveza Belikin de Barry Bowen. Luego, Barry lo despidió a principios de 1984. La disputa involucraba un préstamo bancario en Panamá que Ralph había negociado para el abortado plan de Barry de quema de madera para electricidad. Creo que Said se convirtió en el abogado de Ralph en ese momento. Si fue así o no, es seguro que Ralph se volvió activo en el PUP y se convirtió en su candidato para las elecciones generales de diciembre de 1984 en el distrito electoral de Queen’s Square. Es posible que Glenn Godfrey, en ese momento, todavía estuviera estudiando derecho en Barbados, donde dos de sus amigos más cercanos eran George Brown y Troadio Gonzales. Más tarde, el Sr. Brown se convirtió en Presidente del Tribunal Supremo de Belize y la Reina lo nombró caballero. Troadio se convirtió en juez de la Corte Suprema. Muchos beliceños pensaron que la derrota en las elecciones generales de 1984 ante el Partido Demócrata Unido (UDP en inglés) de Manuel Esquivel habría sido devastadora para el PUP, pero el carisma y la mística del Muy Honorable George Price siguieron siendo realidades en la nación de Belize, especialmente en los distritos del norte. Precisamente cuándo Glenn Godfrey regresó a casa de la facultad de derecho, no puedo decirlo, pero en 1987, cuando me mudé a una casa a medio terminar en Seashore Drive, él vivía un par de casas más abajo de mí con su primera esposa, Dolores. (Creo que Glenn tiene un primer título en inglés de una universidad en Nueva Orleans). Entre los tres, Said, Ralph y Glenn, reconstruyeron el PUP, tanto que en septiembre de 1989 el PUP derrotó al UDP por un estrecho margen. En mi opinión, fue la reputación histórica del Sr. Price la que fue más importante para permitir esa victoria algo sorprendente, pero el hecho de que el PUP, durante su campaña, prometiera darle a Amandala una licencia de Vea página „ 27 Friday, May 21, 2021 AMANDALABelize Page 27 From the Publisher en Español

Continua de página 26 El PUP había jugado cuando me „ permitieron controlar Radio KREM estación de radio, una licencia que el después de las elecciones generales gobernante UDP había rechazado, de 1989, porque una estación de había encajado bien con los beliceños radio es algo peligroso “en las manos de la base, creo. equivocadas”, por así decirlo. A Permítanme decir en este punto que diferencia de un periódico, hay una ha habido varias ocasiones a lo largo inmediatez en la comunicación de una de los años en las que le di “un pase” estación de radio con la gente. Una a Said Musa, por así decirlo, porque estación de radio no es tan peligrosa este es un hombre que me apoyó hoy en día, porque hoy hay al menos cuando estaba prácticamente acabado. cuarenta o cincuenta estaciones de Said invirtió $ 20.000 en este radio en Belize. Pero en 1989, solo periódico en 1977, lo que nos existían la estación de radio del permitió adquirir tecnología offset gobierno (Radio Belize, Friends FM, moderna. Con tal tecnología, o lo que sea), la estación de radio de podíamos competir con Reporter de las Fuerzas Británicas en Ladyville Harry Lawrence, que era el periódico y KREM en la Calle Partridge. líder en Belize en 1977. Ya para El incipiente KREM demostró ser 1984, Amandala se había convertido tan poderoso en 1990 que lideramos en el no. 1, y comenzamos a pagar con éxito un boicot de bebidas contra nuestras facturas, luego a ganar algo el poderoso Sir Barry Bowen. Diría de dinero. ¿Cómo no estar agradecido que, al hacerlo, KREM estaba con un hombre que se hizo amigo mío haciendo realidad la peor pesadilla en los negocios cuando yo estaba del gabinete PUP de 1989-1993: la acabado? Calle Partridge se había vuelto Pero la vida es la vida y las cosas demasiado poderosa. cambian. Las cosas cambian todo el No era algo que el Gabinete PUP tiempo. Después de que Said Musa tuviera la intención de hacer. Nunca se volvió amigo cercano con Ralph se tuvo la intención de que Radio Fonseca y Glenn Godfrey, ganó KREM sobreviviera. Mi papá es un varias elecciones consecutivas. hombre absolutamente brillante, pero Estuvo invicto desde 1989 en sin experiencia política. Creía que adelante, hasta las elecciones Said Musa era amigo de KREM. Esto generales de 2008. Lo que renunció es cierto, pero Said tenía otros a cambio del éxito político, amigos, amigos más importantes. sospecho, fueron las cosas que él y Pasamos por el infierno, pero yo habíamos defendido en 1977. Said KREM sobrevivió. Entonces Lord se volvió neoliberal en su Ashcroft decidió que tenía que pensamiento, para todos los efectos adquirir ese apalancamiento antes y propósitos. Al menos eso parece. mencionado. Usó el nombre Esta columna trata sobre cómo inventado de “Sagis” e insistió en que Said Musa facilitó la entrada no Evan X Hyde tenía que vender el deseada e inoportuna de Lord 10% de la empresa si la estación Michael Ashcroft en Radio KREM habría de adquirir un préstamo de en 1994. Said usó a un abogado que 75.000 dólares del banco Ashcroft. es mi compadre para convencer a mi Cuando fui al Colegio padre, que dirigía Radio KREM en Universitario de Belize (UCB en 1994, de que le pidiera dinero inglés) como presidente en 1999, me prestado a Lord Ashcroft, con el cebo pregunté acerca de todos los títulos en el anzuelo siendo que Evan X de negocios que UCB estaba Hyde tenía que vender el 10 por otorgando a los jóvenes beliceños ciento de la estación de radio (yo era cada año. ¿Tenían estos jóvenes dueño del 40 por ciento de KREM beliceños alguna idea de lo en 1994) a una entidad misteriosa despiadado que es el mundo llamada Sagis Investments Limited. empresarial? ¿Se les enseñó a los Sentí intuitivamente que había algo jóvenes beliceños lo cruel que es sospechoso en el trato, pero estaba hacer negocios aquí afuera? en la cima de mi juego en el periódico Piensen en Lord Ashcroft. El juez y en el baloncesto semiprofesional. de la Corte Suprema Abdulai Conteh El periódico iba muy bien, y creo que dictaminó que KREM debería sentí que podía luchar contra el devolverle el dinero a Sagis para que mundo. “Esta cosa de Sagis”, me Ashcroft se mantuviera alejado de dije, “es Ralph o Ashcroft”. una estación de radio de la base a la Pero soy relativamente ignorante que no pertenecía. Lord Michael se en los negocios. No sabía que el 10 negó a aceptar el veredicto de Conteh. por ciento es una cantidad estratégica En su mente, por cualquier razón, en una empresa. Cuando se posee el tenía que tener ese 10 por ciento. 10 por ciento de un negocio, uno Entonces, usando su alocado dinero, puede interferir en ese negocio de llevó el caso a un tribunal superior y ciertas formas estratégicas. En 1994, ganó. En ese momento, me di cuenta Lord Ashcroft decidió que de que esto era un asunto serio. No necesitaba adquirir influencia sobre tenía los recursos para ir a la Corte Radio KREM y Evan X Hyde, y Said Caribeña de Justicia. Wilbert Musa, un hombre que había Miren, soy un hombre que pensó sido mi amigo desde 1968, lo facilitó que se estaba jubilando, pero la en el proceso. Aún así, puedo batalla entre el depredador y la gente, entender que la amistad de Lord en cierto sentido, recién está Ashcroft y su buena voluntad eran comenzando. importantes para Said en ese momento. Said es un ganador. ¡Poder al pueblo! Page 28 AMANDALABelize Friday, May 21, 2021

Dian Vasquez named new CTO PUBLIC AUCTION SALE: PROPERTY BY ORDER of the Chargees, Messrs. Alpha GammaFinancial Services Limited,Licensed Auctioneer, Fernando Molina, will sell the following properties, being the freehold property of Palmetto Holdings Ltd.,TOGETHER with all buildings and erections thereon in one lot by way of public auction on site on Saturday, the 5thof June, 2021 at 11:00 a.m.:

REGISTRATION SECTION BLOCK PARCEL Placencia North 36 662 (1.91 Acres), 663 (1.60 Acres), 664 (1.29 Acres), 665 (1.14 Acres), 678 (0.99 Acre), 679 (0.98 Acre)

by Dayne Guy Environmental Management and Consisting collectively of 800 ft of Lagoon Front(Parcels 662, 663, Development from Australian 664, 665) &400 ft of beach on the seaside(Parcels 678 & 679). BELMOPAN, Tues. May 18, 2021 National University and is The Ministry of Public Utilities, experienced in policy planning, Total Land Area: 7.91 acres Energy and Logistics has announced research and management. that Ms. Dian Vasquez, a Cayo In the press release issued by the Buildings & improvements: 3-Storey – 4,770 sq ft Concrete resident, was appointed to be the Ministry of Public Utilities, Energy Structure suitable for commercial use. Chief Transport Officer in the and Logistics, Hon. Rodwell Building under construction – piles Department of Transport. The position Ferguson and Chief Executive Officer driven was previously held by Tirsio Galvez, Marconi Leal, Jr., each expressed who retired earlier this year. their confidence in Vasquez’s ability Vasquez holds a Bachelor’s degree to carry out the critical functions that in Environmental Science and a are assigned to the country’s Chief Master’s degree in Diplomacy and Transport Officer. It’s not American “Aid” to Israel. It’s Tribute

by John Whitbeck public manifestations of American submission and subservience. In the wake of the recent Human The accurate and proper word for Rights Watch report on Israeli apartheid such payments is “tribute”, for which and persecution and the ongoing Israeli the dictionary definition is “a payment brutalities in Jerusalem, a slowly made periodically by one state or ruler growing handful of brave American to another, especially as a sign of politicians is daring to defy President dependence.” Biden’s publicly proclaimed assertion Ever since Israel attacked the aptly that it would be “absolutely named USS Liberty in 1967, killing 34 outrageous” to ever condition Americans, wounding another 171 and American “aid” to Israel on any Israeli inflicting 821 rocket and machine-gun behavior and to assert that such “aid” holes in the ship, and President Johnson should indeed be conditioned, at least ordered a cover-up which constituted to some degree, on Israeli violations a virtual surrender, the U.S. government of human rights, international law and has been taking orders from and paying America’s own laws with respect to tribute to Israel, with consequences for the use of American-provided America’s reputation and its role in the weapons. world vastly more costly than mere While this modest trend in money. principled support for human rights and Indeed, the American relationship international law by even a mere with Israel deprives the United States handful of American politicians must of any credibility when it accuses be viewed as encouraging, the tradition countries that it dislikes for other of characterizing the U.S. government’s reasons of violations of human rights payments to Israel — currently a or international law. baseline minimum of $3.8 Billion per If popular perceptions and discourse year, negotiated and agreed by a in the United States could be departing President Obama for the next transformed so as to recognize that the ten-year payment cycle, inevitably U.S. government’s payment supplemented by numerous add-ons — commitments to Israel constitute tribute as “aid” should also be questioned. to a dominant power rather than “aid” Israel is not a poor country. In the to a needy nation, there might be some latest UN rankings, its annual per capita hope for a long overdue American GDP of $46,376 ranked it 19th among declaration of independence and a more the UN’s 193 member states, ahead of constructive and honorable American TERMS: STRICTLY CASH Germany (20th), the United Kingdom role in the world. Bids may also be submitted via email by no later (24th), France (26th) and Saudi Arabia th (41st). John V. Whitbeck is an than 4 June, 2021 The guaranteed payments which U.S. international lawyer who as advised For further particulars on the properties, please governments negotiate with Israeli the Palestinian negotiating team in contact: governments and commit to pay to negotiations with Israel. Israel are not negotiated and paid Email: [email protected] because Israel needs the money. Article first published by Tel: 610-0919 They are negotiated and paid as counterpunch.org Friday, May 21, 2021 AMANDALABelize Page 29 Ongoing gang rivalry COVID-19 update claims life of Kirk Gordon BELIZE CITY, (From page 1) Thurs. May 20, 2021 multiple gunshot wounds around 6:30 In our midweek p.m. on Friday, May 14. edition, we When police arrived at the scene, reported on a Gordon was still clinging to life. He Covid-19 outbreak was rushed to the Karl Heusner detected at the Memorial Hospital, where he was Princess Casino. pronounced dead on arrival. On Tuesday, the An initial investigation by police Ministry of Health revealed that Gordon was sitting near and Wellness a skiff when an unknown man announced that that approached him and fired several outbreak had spread shots. Police currently believe that to two primary the shooting was spurred by an schools in Belize ongoing rivalry between Gordon and City — Queen’s someone who resides in the Square Anglican neighborhood. School, and both the Gordon also had a history of run- upper and lower ins with law enforcement. Two years sections of Wesley ago, Gordon was released from the Primary School. by Dayne Guy Belize Central Prison after he had The Health Ministry has stated that being men and 112 being women. As served a jail sentence for the killing its rigorous and ongoing contact of May 19, a total of 56,719 persons BELIZE CITY, Wed. May 19, 2021 of Arthur Ellis. This sentence was tracing resulted in the early in the country have received at least Police are investigating the fatal reduced to a period of fifteen years detection and isolation of these one dose of the vaccine, with 9,668 shooting of 43-year-old Kirk Gordon after his murder conviction was cases — which, it is hoped, being fully immunized. of Kraal Road, Belize City, who, downgraded to a manslaughter restricted the further spread of the On May 20, a total of 9 new cases according to preliminary reports, charge. outbreak. The Minister of were found from a batch of 650 tests was found on Peter Seco Street with Police continue to investigate. Education, Hon. Francis Fonseca, processed. The Ministry reported 4 stated, in reference to the emergence additional recoveries and 2 of cases in two primary schools, that hospitalizations. No new deaths were while the outbreaks are alarming, recorded. Man killed in drive-by shooting his Ministry is not overly worried On Wednesday, May 19, a total of at this time. 8 new cases were identified from a (From page 1) Following the recent outbreak, an batch of 592 tests processed. Four informal call was issued to casino new recoveries were found and no BELIZE CITY, Thurs. May 20, 2021 workers to get vaccinated by a new hospitalizations were recorded. A man identified as 28-year-old Ministry official, Dr. Natalia Beer, The Ministry recorded no new death Marquin Drury was killed in a drive- who is the ministry’s Maternal and on that day. On May 18, 3 new cases by shooting that took place on Child Health Technical Advisor. Dr. were found from 645 tests processed. Wednesday night on Santa Barbara Beer stated that those persons are At that time 3 active hospitalizations Street in Belize City. classified as tourism workers and were recorded, but none of the Police reports state that a little thus are currently eligible to receive hospitalized persons needed before 9:00 p.m. on Wednesday, shots the vaccine. intensive care. No new deaths or were fired in Drury’s direction from As the Ministry continues to urge recoveries were recorded on that day. a small dark car that drove past the persons in the country to reach out to Over the weekend, from May 15 portion of the street on which he had health facilities to start the to 17, a total of 1,458 tests were been standing with some immunization process, teams from processed and 28 new cases were associates. Those men with whom he MOHW have traveled to the deep found. Five additional recoveries had been socializing when the car south, as far as Graham Creek, in were recorded during that time, and approached, escaped unscathed. friends on the street-side on Santa order to administer vaccines. two persons were actively When interviewed by reporters Barbara Street when a vehicle The MOHW has also rolled out the hospitalized. Neither of the two today, Sr. Superintendent approached them, and apparently 10,000 Sinopharm vaccines donated needed intensive care. No deaths Alejandro Cowo, Head of the Police someone from inside of the vehicle by the United Arab Emirates (UAE) were recorded during that period. Department’s Crimes Investigation fired shots at their direction, causing last month. The World Health And on Friday, May 14th, a total of Branch, stated, “What we know is the fatal shots to Mr. Drury.” Organization (WHO) gave the jab 5 new cases were found in a batch of that Mr. Drury was along with other Police suspect this recent incident emergency approval recently. Those 766 tests processed. Six recoveries to be gang-related and have ramped vaccines will be available for were recorded and no hospitalizations up efforts in the area to prevent any persons who have not yet started the or deaths were logged. possible retaliation. inoculation process, with members of Internationally, as the Covid-19 Gruesome “We know who are the two groups the Belize Chinese Association being pandemic continues to wreak havoc that are involved, and police are among the first to get the Sinopharm in India, healthcare workers are now already there from last night, and also jab. faced with yet another complication daylight city this morning there are several foot This week the Government of believed to be linked to the virus. patrols and vehicle patrols in that Belize also released updated Covid- Some patients with Covid-19 and murder immediate area, where we suspect 19 regulations — with the curfew some who have recovered have that something might flare up.” Sr. period on Thursday being reduced. contracted a fungal infection known Superintendent Cowo said. On that day, the curfew starts at as mucormycosis. Continued from „Page 1 He added, “We know that there is midnight and continues until 5:00 a.m. This fungus affects the lungs, nose, In an uncensored video shot by an still an ongoing dispute among The curfew hours on the other days and sinuses and can spread to the observer who was present at the different elements within the city, and of the week remain the same. eyes, causing blindness, or to the scene, Castillo’s body could be seen as someone has an opportunity to The most recent infographic brain — thus triggering headaches wedged between two vehicles, with strike, most of the time that is what released by the MOHW on May 20, and seizures. a pool of blood on the ground beneath happens.” 2021, shows a total of 77 active According to the WHO, as of May him. Multiple puncture wounds could Police are seeking the assistance cases across the country. Since the 20, 2021, a total of 164,523,894 also be seen on his body. of those persons who were with the start of the pandemic in Belize, a total confirmed cases of COVID-19 have Police have not yet given any victim at the time of his murder to of 12,761 persons have been infected been recorded, with 3,412,032 deaths official report on this recent murder, proceed further with this with 12,349 having recovered. To being reported to WHO. A total of but the nature of the crime suggests investigation. No one has yet been date, a total of 323 deaths have been 1,407,945,776 vaccine doses have that it was gang-related. charged. recorded across the country, with 211 been administered globally. Page 30 AMANDALABelize Friday, May 21, 2021 Constituency funds for area reps not audited, says PSU prez

who claim that they have offices, and letters that they sent to the unions. He six percent! While we to pay 25%, when you go there it’s a little room, then emphasized that a balance must and they get to choose when they pay and you might find a desk, but they be struck in regards to tax reforms in it. So they actually go in and they pay are saying that they are paying order to create a more equitable tax it when they want to, and when they whatever the amount of money they environment. don’t want to, they don’t pay it. So give them for the rental, that is going “We all know the problems that we that’s where we are with taxes, and toward this little room,” Henry have with the huge amount of taxes that’s why we have so many persons pointed out. as public officers. We pay 25% that owing millions of dollars in taxes. He went on to highlight the fact that comes directly out of our pockets. In There has to be tax reform in this Cabinet ministers receive $3,350 in fact, we don’t even see it. We don’t country to help balance the load. It allowances each month. He then noted even smell it. It comes out can’t be that the working class only BELIZE CITY, Wed. May 19, 2021 that the unions had recommended that immediately,” Henry said. He then is taking the brunt of carrying this During a press conference held by the motor vehicle maintenance made a comparison between the taxes country by way of these taxes” he the unions on Tuesday afternoon, the allowance, which is currently imposed on public workers and the insisted. president of the Public Service $1,350, be cut to $675, which, said lenient tax collection arrangement for Henry said that there must be some Union, Gerald Henry, further Henry, is a more than reasonable lawyers, who only pay 6% of what equity in the tax rates. questioned the manner in which amount. they earn in professional taxes. “The more you make, the more you public funds are currently being used Henry also stated that the issue of “We all know this, that lawyers contribute, because the more you are by government officials, and drew tax reform was not mentioned at all make huge amounts of money, but they taking out of the economy, you are attention to specific areas of by the government in the most recent pay guess how much? Six percent, putting it back,” he said. government that are lacking oversight. He first focused on the use of the Community Vote Fund that is given on a monthly basis to elected PM replies to unions officials. He revealed that approximately $7,000 is paid each Continued from Page 1 their careers. This offer, she said, was month to area representatives so that „ pulled back as well. they can set up and maintain a Joint Unions on Tuesday, May 18, in And again, said Smith, the latest constituency office and assist their a purported attempt to respond to letter from the PM made no mention community. In his capacity as an some queries that had been made by of this matter. The BNTU president auditor for the past 27 years in the the union leaders after they reviewed also mentioned that an agreement had government of Belize, however, the Prime Minister’s May 11th letter. been made with the government to Henry stated that those funds have However, that letter, which is the finally hash out a Collective never been audited. perceived last offer from the Bargaining Agreement for teachers, “So when they cut their salary by government to the unions to end the and that a first meeting was to be 15%, they have access to $7,000, and impasse, came under fire during a held on May 15. She then pointed we don’t have the slightest idea what press conference held by the BNTU out that the letter containing the they use it for. There are some of them and PSU on Wednesday afternoon. government’s “last” proposal again The union leaders pointed out at made no mention of this arrangement. that press conference that several What the Prime Minister’s letter portions of the offer that the did address, however, was an government had previously made to observation by the president of the mortgages. In the recent letter from Borders them were omitted in the letter which PSU, Gerald Henry, that a change the government, the PM addresses contained the “last” offer from the had been made in the government’s this perceived removal of a part of opened for Prime Minister. In their press offer to reduce the workweek of the leniency provision by saying, conference, they noted that they had public servants. They had initially “The forbearance period up to the agreed on details of a promissory agreed to reduce the workweek by end of December 2021 allowing tourists only note offer which had been 5 hours, but the May 11th letter only borrowers further relief in respect subsequently presented to, and made provision for a 4-hour of which the Central Bank of Belize accepted by, their members. reduction. In his most recent issued guidance to the banks and Continued from Page 1 According to the union leaders, correspondence to the unions, credit unions applies to the entire „ however, no mention was made of however, the Prime Minister portfolio including but not limited the country’s land and sea borders the promissory note in the most recent reaffirmed the government’s to residential mortgages.” would be reopened — but only correspondence from the PM. commitment to stick to the 5-hour The government also called on the foreign tourists (those visiting the National president of the BNTU, workweek reduction. unions to choose a representative country for recreational purposes) Elena Smith stated that what was The letter states, “Ministers will from the National Trade Union will be allowed entry into the country presented in the May 11th letter was be given the flexibility to enable such Congress of Belize to sit on the at these border points. new, and had not been discussed in adjusted work week without National Bank of Belize board. The This reopening will officially take any prior meeting. sacrificing public service. government stated that the person place at the end of this month, on May Another area of contention was the Notwithstanding the foregoing, who is selected must have banking 31 — a little over a week from now. details surrounding how the overtime when applicable, will experience and be “fit and proper” The entry points that will be increment freeze would affect continue to apply on the basis of the by the standards of the Central Bank. reopened are the Santa Elena government workers over the statutory workweek.” Lastly, the Prime Minister sent a Northern Border, the Benque Viejo timeline of their careers. Smith said BNTU national president Elena stark warning to those public del Carmen Western Border, and the that they had agreed that at the end of Smith had stated that the government officers and teachers still engaged San Pedro and Punta Gorda borders. the increment freeze, public workers also pulled back an offer to ensure in protest action. It is to be noted as well that only would be placed on the same pay- that banks and financial institutions He cautioned, at the end of the tourists who are pre-booked at gold scale which would have been provide leniency for public servants letter, “Finally, as stated in the subject standard certified accommodations assigned to them if the increment and teachers in the repayment letter, kindly be reminded that any will be allowed entry into Belize. freeze had not been implemented. In arrangements for their personal public officer continuing to strike During an interview last week, the other words, the increment freeze loans and mortgages. She felt that in beyond May 14th, 2021 will not be Prime Minister, Hon. John Briceño, would have no effect ultimately on the last offer the government only paid any salary for any period on said that his government would only their pay scale over the course of mentioned leniency provisions for strike thereafter.” reopen borders if Covid-19 tests could be administered to those persons entering the country — in a Our email address for business & advertising is manner similar to what is currently done at the PGIA. While there is no [email protected] indication whether these measures were put in place, the border Our email address for news, letters and articles is reopening is set to take place in less [email protected] than two weeks. Friday, May 21, 2021 AMANDALABelize Page 31 Unions stage funeral procession for corruption

Continued from Page 1 we left the table with that offer. We „ took that offer to our members, and to mark the death of corruption. Many our members accepted that offer, and of them, as they walked along the that was one of the offers that our roads in the country’s municipalities, members were willing to accept and chanted and wailed in an effort to would have helped us to reach a simulate public grief. It is the unions’ conclusion at the last meeting. latest attempt to send their message However, that was pulled back, and of discontent to the Government of so our members are saying, ‘well, Belize, there is nothing that we are getting.’ While the PSU’s 1st vice You are talking about the government president, Dean Flowers, giving the unions so many things, but acknowledged that corruption is still the one that is most important to us very much “alive”, he explained that you have removed off the table,” the purpose of the display was to Smith said. show the union’s desire to finally put She also mentioned at the press an end to it. conference that during talks with the The symbolic burial was carried government, promissory notes had out in the midst of an impasse between been discussed, and the union leaders the Joint Unions and the government were to have gotten feedback from that a Collective Bargaining discussions. Again, we must of Belize, which continues with no their members so that a final decision Agreement for teachers would understand that as we go through these apparent end in sight. The unions could be reached in the last meeting. finally be agreed upon. The first meetings, we end up with some hosted a press conference following The details of the promissory note, meeting was to have taken place on verbal agreements, and at the end it the demonstration to present their however, were altered in the Prime Saturday, May 15, but Smith noted was expected that at the last meeting views on why the strike action is Minister’s televised public address that the meeting did not occur and that we would have had, we would unending. and his letter to the unions, in which that the government has given them have put those agreements in writing, “We know that at the beginning of a new offer was presented. no indication of when it would take and we would have signed off. Both the discussion we were in “As you are all aware, before we place. She said that the signing of sides would have signed off on them, consultations and we had asked for even got a chance to get to that table the CBA after 13 years was and that document would have had us to move from consultations to again to share with the government discussed, but was not included in all of the things that we would have negotiations, because we were then side our members’ position on that the last offer that was made in the agreed to in those meetings from the looking at other areas. However, we offer, we got a new offer of letter they received. beginning until the last meeting. could not get the government to compensation — one that we had She also indicated that the Joint However, as we shared with you, all [engage] in negotiations. At some no opportunity to take to our Unions will be responding to the of them weren’t included, and so now point, we had asked, and they said members to share with them, to even government’s last offer. we would have to write back to them ‘yes, we are negotiating’, and other digest ourselves as leaders to be “We should be responding to that and point out those areas that need times they said ‘we are consulting and able to explain to our members what document, the last offer, the last adjusting to ensure that they are collaborating’,” Elena Smith, the offer would look like,” Smith supper. We will be responding to that captured correctly as per our national president of the BNTU, said. as joint unions and we would be agreements in those meetings,” Smith stated at the press conference. She also referred to some other pointing out those errors based on our said. She added, “I think one of the offers which were placed on the bigger reasons we still are where we table, and which they thought they are right now is for the simple fact had reached an agreement on. that there was some backpedaling of However, a number of those were Belize seeks extension for the discussion of our negotiations or omitted from the government’s last consultations with the government offer, Smith noted. “The final side and one of the things that we have document that we received saw a lot bond payment placed on the table was the matter of of those offers missing, or they were the increment freeze and how can not the same as the previous offer,” Continued from Page 1 in an amount equal to the U.S $0.50 rectify that increment freeze, and we she said. „ for each U.S $1,000 principal amount had asked the government side for, at She also stated that the last set of until September 19, 2021 — the end of Securities held by such Eligible the end of the freeze, for our members proposals that they received from of the grace period for the next Holder; provided that Belize receives to be placed on the correct scale at the government made no mention of scheduled coupon payment, which is the Requisite Consents and the the end of that freeze, because you whether or not pensioners will be due on August 2021. Thus, states the Proposed Amendment becomes would understand that if it is that my affected by the forthcoming cuts. GoB press release, if the request is effective. Holders of Bonds for which increment is frozen and I am not put “We have been told that granted, “the amended grace period no consent is delivered will not on that correct scale after that, it pensioners would not be affected by will expire on the same date as the receive such consent fee.” means that for the rest of my career I this salary cut, but in the last grace period applicable to the next What is noteworthy in the press would be losing, and so telling me document that was received that they scheduled coupon, payable on August release is the particular reason that that at the end or at the time of are claiming to be the last document, 20, 2021.” GoB outlined for the extension of the retirement that you would then use the last offer in that document, During a recent interview with the grace period. The release stated, “… those calculations, those would be nothing is mentioned about Minister of State in the Ministry of the Government has implemented based on my scale that I should be on pensioners not being affected, so is Finance, Chris Coye, he had clearly aggressive fiscal adjustments is really and truly not fixing the it that they will be or they will not stated that the country was not in a measures and commenced issues.” be? Because if that is your last offer position to make the $7 million consultations and discussions with She then went on to state that and your final document and that payment — particularly since advisors, bondholders and other initially the government had agreed document should have everything in provisions had not been made in the parties regarding possible alternative verbally to ensure that public workers it, then that should be in it as well,” budget for the payment of this amount. terms for meeting its contractual would be placed on the correct scale said Smith. He anticipated a “soft default,” since obligations under the Bonds. The following the end of the increment Smith also said that the offer of the negotiations were expected to go Government is seeking consent from freeze, as opposed to at retirement. forbearance on the mortgages and well beyond the date set for the coupon Eligible Holders (as defined in the She pointed out, however, that GOB personal loans of teachers and public payment. Consent Solicitation Statement) to the backtracked from that promise in the servants was also altered in the set The government delivered a consent Proposed Amendment in order to give most recent, and reportedly final, of proposals presented by the solicitation to the bondholders the Government the necessary time to offer presented by the Prime Minister. government. The offer outlined by outlining the repayment commitment discuss these alternatives with “When we got the last letter from the government prior to the most the country will take. representatives of the Holders and the government that they are referring recent proposal included leniency on The release stated, “Belize will pay execute an appropriate transaction.” to as the ‘last’ letter, that matter was both personal loans and mortgages. to each Eligible Holder that delivers The Consent Solicitation expires on not included, and when we queried The last offer only mentions a consent in accordance with the June 1, 2021 at 5:00 New York Time it, we were told that, based on advice, mortgages, according to Smith. procedures described in the Consent unless extended or terminated by they could no longer do that, and so She said that they had also agreed Solicitation Statement a consent fee Belize, the release stated. Page 32 AMANDALABelize Friday, May 21, 2021

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