Friday, June 11, 2021 AMANDALABelize Page 1

NO. 3467 BELIZE CITY, FRIDAY, JUNE 11, 2021 (44 PAGES) $1.50 Crique Sarco land dispute goes to Cabinet

BELMOPAN, Wed. June 9, 2021 While being questioned by local media, acting Prime Bondholders agree Minister, and Minister of Natural Resources, Hon. to extension Cordel Hyde, mentioned that Cabinet will be discussing the issues surrounding the implementation of communal land rights for the Maya. This is in the wake of the Forestry Department’s issuance of a cease and desist order to a logging operation on the outskirts of Crique Sarco BELIZE CITY, Wed. June 9, 2021 the country’s most recent bond village. Yesterday, reports surfaced that the payment that became due in May, Some residents of the creditor committee for the holders of 2021. The bondholders had initially village are claiming that Belize’s Superbond had given a stonewalled the government’s Crique Sarco’s alcalde failed favorable response to the government proposal — citing what they to carry out the Free, Prior of Belize’s amended Consent described as an earlier rejection by and Informed Consent Solicitation, through which GoB (FPIC) process properly before Please turn to„Page 39 sought to extend the grace period for Please turn to„Page 39 Hartin free on $30,000 bail BNTU files challenge Nurses’ Assn. calls (See story on page 37) to salary cuts out Chebat BELIZE CITY, Thurs. June 10, 2021 Today, the Nurses’ Association of Belize issued a statement in which it called the comments made by Health Minister, Hon. Michel Chebat, regarding the shortage of nurses within the country, “disrespectful.” Please turn to„Page 39 BELIZE CITY, Thurs. June 10, 2021 MoE ends school Reports are that the Belize National Teachers Union (BNTU) has filed a year early motion challenging the salary cuts which were implemented on June 1. The BELIZE CITY, Thurs. June 10, 2021 BNTU’s national president, Elena After making an abrupt Smith, had indicated when the union announcement that there would be a decided to end its strike that they phased return to classroom learning would be seeking other avenues — a little over two months ago, the including the legal route — to oppose Ministry of Education has indicated PM departs to attend the salary cuts if the Please turn to„Page 38 Please turn to„Page 38

regional events (See story on (See story on page 3) Salary cuts take effect page 4) Page 2 AMANDALABelize Friday, June 11, 2021 SSB inaugurates the David L. McKoy Building

by Kory Leslie (freelance writer)

BELMOPAN, Wed. June 9, 2021 The Social Security Board inaugurated a new business complex on their compound in Belmopan. The David L. McKoy Business Center is a state-of-the-art business complex that has been named after a former PUP Minister who pioneered the Social Security scheme in Belize. The building will now house the SSB offices in Belmopan and also the new Office of the Prime Minister, which has been located at the Sir Edney Cain Building for the past decade. The David L. McKoy Business the top of the building, and I said He also said that the SSB will Board is doing just that. With its new Center is four stories tall, and within ‘Wow that’s a beautiful building. receive an immediate return on this building, we are fulfilling its the center are commercial office That’s something that we will always investment, as the building will house mission to have a financially stable spaces that will be offered for rent remember Belmopan for.’ It boasts a number of Government offices, program to provide a lifetime of to various businesses in order to 45,500 rentable square feet, is fully NGOs and BPOs which presently coverage to many thousands of generate a return on the $8.2-million- equipped with business amenities and employ thousands of Belizeans. Belizeans ensured through the dollar investment. The director of the was constructed at a total of $8.2 In her remarks, SSB’s board scheme,” she said. SSB board, Wendy Castillo, and the million of the Social Security director, Wendy Castillo mentioned Deputy Prime Minister, Hon. Investment Chairman of the SSB, Investment Fund. Based on our the vision of the late Hon. George Cordel Hyde also spoke at the Reynaldo Magaña, both took the estimates, we will recover the Cadle Price for the SSB: “In his ceremony and paid tribute to the late podium at the ribbon-cutting investment in ten years at an eight- address delivered on June fifteenth David L. McKoy, who he said first ceremony to discuss the SSB’s point-two percent rate of return. This 1982, on the occasion of the first had the vision for a social security excitement in unveiling their new is a solid investment, in the annual report of the Social Security scheme fifty-two years ago. Hyde project. investment portfolio that will Fund, the Right Honorable George remarked that Minister McKoy “Today we inaugurate the David generate the necessary returns to keep Cadle Price, as Prime Minister of a could have never imagined that L. McKoy Business Center. It’s quite the fund fluid, to service short- term newly independent Belize, said twelve years later “his vision would a marvel of a building, which will and long-term benefits for the people Social Security is but the beginning impact so many Belizeans”. Mr. be iconic for the city of Belmopan. I of Belize for years to come,” Magaña of developing the proper attitudes McKoy’s daughter, Lottie McKoy must say, as I was driving in, I noticed said. of a responsibility for older or Gill, was invited as a special guest injured citizens so that we can to the ceremony. In speaking with the become conscious of the human and media, Mrs. McKoy Gill said that social obligations which we must the family was pleasantly surprised Caribbean teachers’ strive to meet. Today the Investment by the SSB’s decision to name the union writes PM Committee of your Social Security building after her father.

the issue,” the letter states. Family in Guatemala CUT is currently engaged with regional and international partners in an recovers stolen vehicle effort to bring attention to the imposed pay cuts. by Dayne Guy the thieves, and were able to regain It remarked in its letter to possession of the vehicle from the the Prime Minister that the BENQUE VIEJO DEL CARMEN, thieves. How they were able to take pay cuts will create added Cayo District, Fri. June 4, 2021 the vehicle away from armed men economic strife, “as a Around 11:00 a.m. on Friday, June remains unclear. Nonetheless, the decrease in salary will have 4, two armed men (one of a dark vehicle was returned to its rightful a multiplier effect on the complexion and the other believed to owners. economy.” be of Hispanic descent) stormed into Many are wondering whether the The release also states that the Pacheco household on Border individuals involved in this robbery the salary cuts are causing an Road in the Cayo District and held the were also involved in the incident that “insurmountable degree of family at gunpoint. They proceeded to claimed the life of BECOL employee distress of teachers at this steal the keys for the family’s vehicle, Wayne Cadle. Police have informed time.” It adds, “Teachers are in which they escaped and headed to the media that the two robberies, one BELIZE, Mon. June 7, 2021 currently under immense Guatemala. The robbers were of which ended in the victim’s death, In a letter dated June 5, the psychological pressure to maintain subsequently confronted, however, by are not believed to be related, and that Caribbean Union of Teachers (CUT) the classroom and sustain their family relatives of the Pacheco family the police are currently seeking wrote to Prime Minister Hon. John during this pandemic.” residing in Guatemala, who specific persons in connection with the Briceño, urging him to let “good sense The letter from CUT also describes successfully retrieved the automobile. Cadle murder. prevail” and to “withdraw the the salary reduction as The Pacheco family in Cayo The increase in vehicle thefts in the proposal of the 10% salary “unconscionable” and states that it explained to police that the 2 robbers area has raised concerns for the deduction.” will severely impact the lives of ransacked their home and stole a dark residents and the Police Department. The salary cuts had already been teachers and other individuals grey Toyota Hilux that was parked in The department has said that, although legislated and had gone into effect by connected to them. the family’s driveway, and police it has increased measures to apprehend the time the strongly worded letter The Caribbean Union of Teachers concluded, after carrying out an initial the car thieves who enter the country was sent, thus diminishing its consists of 23 member units from investigation, that the robbers had fled from Guatemala and it has made efforts effectiveness. CUT is advising the across the region, the majority of to Guatemala in the stolen vehicle. to block escape routes, the culprits government of Belize to rethink its whom are based in member states of Their suspicion was later confirmed often create new routes to bypass decision to impose the salary CARICOM. They are the umbrella when the Pacheco family’s relatives areas highly monitored by the police. reductions and to devise more organization for teachers unions in the in Guatemala encountered the stolen The police in Belize have since creative ways of addressing the region and are an affiliate of vehicle. increased communications with their economic fallout. Education International (EI) and other According to reports, those Guatemalan counterparts in an attempt “Placing teachers on the breadline international organizations, inclusive relatives in Guatemala spotted and to minimize motor vehicle thefts can never be the answer to resolve of the ILO and CCL. recognized the vehicle and confronted involving Guatemalans. Friday, June 11, 2021 AMANDALABelize Page 3 Shyne attempts overthrow of Faber

by Dayne Guy division, appeared to shy away from the leadership would be an internal the apparent endorsement. She matter and would be addressed BELMOPAN, Thurs. June 10, 2021 responded to Barrow’s Facebook accordingly.” Since the circulation of a video post by issuing a public statement in Other prominent members of the that shows the Leader of the which she asserted that the United Democratic Party have also Opposition, Hon. Patrick Faber, in Mesopotamia area representative, voiced their opinion on Faber’s an aggressive pursuit of the mother who has described himself as the position in the party. The former of his 2-year-old daughter, which “chief [UDP whip”, was “selective Attorney General, Senator Michael was followed by the sound of loud in which of [their] private Peyrefitte (UDP chairman) asserts off-screen bangs and shouts that conversations and messages he had that Faber remains the leader and suggested some type of abusive chosen to place in the public urges the public to be wary of behavior, the UDP leader has been domain.” Panton further remarked trouble- makers. On the other hand, in the crosshairs of some members that she remains firm that any other members of the party have of his party who feel he is no longer changes in the party’s structure must been vocal in their disillusionment fit to lead the party. be properly ventilated, and she with Faber. The former UDP leader- Yesterday, June 9, Hon. Moses further stated that she had formally elect, John Saldivar, has publicly “Shyne” Barrow, the area requested that an urgent meeting be called for Hon. Patrick Faber to step representative of the Mesopotamia held to address the ongoing issue. down as party leader. constituency, publicly stated in a In the face of ongoing tension and Facebook post that the UDP leader instability within the party, the has lost the confidence of the United Democratic Party issued a majority of the members of the release stating that Hon. Patrick Belizean artist shot Opposition in the House of Faber remains the substantive party Representatives (It is worth noting leader, despite the concerns BELIZE CITY, Thurs. June 10, 2021 that there are only 5 Opposition surrounding the recorded domestic A 27-year-old Belizean artist was members in the House.). Hon. incident. The release states, “There shot last night while socializing at a Barrow then proceeded to suggest is absolutely no indication that a house on Victoria Street, in Belize that the role of leader be assumed majority of elected UDP City. by Hon. Tracy Taegar Panton, whom parliamentarians would support any Initial reports are that Belizean he deems to be the most influential motion of no confidence against dancehall artist, John King was member of the Opposition. Honorable Patrick Faber. Any wounded when an armed man ran Hon. Panton, however, who is the expression of concern by an into a yard in the area and fired shots area representative for the Albert individual UDP parliamentarian with through the door of a house — one of which hit King. Before those shots were fired, the gunman had fired a first set of rounds, and this had PM departs to attend caused some men in the area to run for safety in the yard. The assailant regional events then followed the men and fired a Police are investigating this series of shots, one of which injured shooting, but a motive for the crime (From page 1) King. is not known at this time. He was rushed to the Karl Heusner King recently released a music Memorial Hospital (KHMH) for video and has produced several Castejón. treatment. Unconfirmed reports are singles that were previously President Pérez-Castejón that he underwent surgery last night, released. He is also a semi-pro will, together with the following the incident. football player. Heads of States that are a part of the Central American Integration System (SICA), analyze the region and its Teen faces 8 charges relationship with Spain. This meeting is scheduled to for hit-and-run take place on June 10. The meeting will also by Dayne Guy commemorate the 30th anniversary of SICA. BELIZE CITY, Wed. June 9, 2021 It must be noted that it is Last week, a body was found near in the immediate aftermath the Lemonal Road in rural Belize and of a historic diplomatic was later identified as 87-year-old meeting between the Thomas “Shugga” Sutherland. A governments of Belize and search of the area led to the discovery Guatemala that the Prime of a motorcycle that was believed to Minister will now be have been involved in a hit-and-run attending a regional meeting accident that claimed Sutherland’s reportedly organized by the life. This subsequently led to the Costa Rican Minister of apprehension of 18-year-old Leeron BELIZE CITY, Wed. June 9, 2021 Foreign Affairs and Worship in Muslar, who now faces 8 charges in The Prime Minister, Hon. John partnership with the governments of connection with the incident. Briceño, left the country today to Spain and Guatemala. Earlier this week, Muslar attend two high-level regional events The Heads of States will also appeared before the Magistrate’s being organized in San José, Costa participate in a Solidarity Event, Court in Belize City, where he was Rica: the Extraordinary Summit of where they will seek to obtain charged for manslaughter by the Heads of State and Government donations and contributions to negligence, failure to report an since the offenses for which he has of SICA-Spain, and also a Solidarity continue the work of the Regional accident, causing death by careless been charged are indictable. Event for Forcibly Displaced Integrated Framework for Protection conduct, failure to stop and render Muslar’s attorney, Orson “OJ” Persons and Host Communities in and Solutions (MIRPS) (created in aid, use of a motor vehicle without Elrington, says his client maintains Central America and Mexico. 2017), of which Belize is also a part. third-party insurance, driving an that he is innocent and he awaits the The Prime Minister also plans to The Prime Minister is expected to unlicensed motor vehicle, use of an next court date on August 10. Muslar hold bilateral meetings with return to the country on June 12. In unregistered vehicle, and driving a was offered bail of $4,000 plus one President Carlos Alvarado Quesada the interim, Deputy Prime Minister motorized vehicle without due care surety of the same value, which he of Costa Rica and the president of Hon. Cordel Hyde will act as Prime and attention. ultimately submitted to the court later Spain, Pedro Sánchez Pérez- Minister. No plea was taken from Muslar, in the evening. Page 4 AMANDALABelize Friday, June 11, 2021 Belize joins Global Salary cuts take effect Fishing Watch (From page 1)

by Dayne Guy research to improve or better BELIZE CITY, Wed. June 9, 2021 scale two the cuts will take effect at understand wildlife in the region. The salary reductions for all pay point 5, from $12,164 to the BELIZE CITY, Tues. June 8, 2021 Valarie Lanza, Director of High government-paid workers have been capped rate. A memorandum of understanding Seas Fisheries of the BHSFU, finalized and take retroactive effect as On pay scale 3 the cuts will start at (MOU) that allows for greater applauded the effort in conjunction of June 1, 2021. The bill that was pay point 3, with those workers losing transparency in the waters of Belize with Oceana. “Thanks to this joint passed in Parliament to reduce the $286 yearly; and those on pay scale 4 was signed by the Belize High Seas effort/partnership we will be able to salaries of public servants was the first will begin to see a reduction at pay Fisheries Unit (BHSFU). This MOU increase our vessel monitoring piece of legislation signed by the newly point 2 — a total of $657 off their puts into place measures to make transparency efforts to better detect installed Governor General, H.E. annual salary. vessel tracking data publicly available and prevent IUU fishing and explore Froyla Tzalam, and for weeks it has And at pay scale 5, the cuts begin through the Global Fishing Watch map. how the use of additional platforms been the cause of much apprehension for all other permanent workers, and This agreement would allow for the will contribute to the monitoring work for the Joint Unions. the data seems to suggest that the tracking of movements of commercial carried out by the BHSFU,” she said. A circular sent out by the Financial salaries of those who are at the initial fishing vessels, almost in real-time. Melissa Wright, Vibrant Oceans Secretary, Joseph Waight, informed the point on that pay scale will fall under In a press release, Oceana applauds Initiative Lead at Bloomberg heads of offices of all government the $12,000 threshold. Despite having Belize’s leaders for their actions to Philanthropies, remarked, “Belize has departments and institutions of the a previous salary (prior to the salary increase transparency in Belize’s become a leading nation in developing activation of the salary cuts and the cuts) of $13,152, those workers will waters. The release says, “The sustainable, more transparent fishing new pay scales for public workers. receive $11,837 annually. agreement signed by the Belize High practices. Their commitment to sharing These reductions will remain in In terms of salary ranges, official data Seas Fisheries Unit (BHSFU), vessel data will help revive fisheries, effect for the “relevant period” from shared with Amandala shows Oceana, and Global Fishing Watch, paying dividends for Belizeans, and June 1, 2021, to March 31, 2024, but government-paid workers, inclusive of demonstrates Belize’s commitment to sets an example for other countries to the legislation makes provision for the teachers and public officers, between greater transparency in fishing follow suit to protect marine resources cuts to be revisited and possibly pay scale 1 and 5, being one of the activities at sea and is the result of that billions depend on for food and reduced after yearly consultation with largest affected groups — almost 7,250 Oceana’s collaboration with the livelihood.” Chief Executive Officer of the social partners. workers. Salaries for these persons government to increase transparency Global Fishing Watch, Tony Long, In addition to the salary reductions, constitute about 30.7457% of the total of Belizean-flagged fishing vessels on further commented, “By bringing its there will be a 25% reduction of the wages paid out by government as of the high seas.” fishing fleet into the public realm, entertainment allowances that are given March 2021. These persons collect Global Fishing Watch (GFW) Belize is paving the way for Caribbean to the heads of government departments between $12,001 and $26,000 provides advanced and detailed cooperation and setting a global and senior public officers in the base annually. information on global fishing activity challenge for others to follow suit.” year. And, as previously reported, The president of the Public Service through the use of machine learning. It The efforts which led to this section 4(4) makes provision for the Union (PSU), Dean Flowers, has stated further allows for vessel tracking using agreement were prompted by the freezing of increments. that they did not expect to get new pay the automatic identification system issuance by the European Union’s Of note, section 5 of the legislation scales with the salary adjustments, and (AIS), as well as the vessel monitoring Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated outlines that public officers’ pensions he asserted that this will set workers system (VMS), which provides data (IUU) Regulation (the body that will be calculated “on the basis of back even more. His assertion is that for smaller, previously unaccounted penalizes countries which are not emoluments that would have been these new pay scales will be set in for, vessels. This allows for a clear addressing IUU fishing) of a yellow applicable if these Regulations had not stone going forward, even after the picture of fishing activity on our global and red card to Belize in the years been passed.” three-year period has passed. When ocean, and to a lesser extent, Belize’s 2012 and 2014 — which resulted in a The legislation also adds, questioned by local media, acting waters. ban on Belize’s seafood exports to the “Emoluments greater than twelve Prime Minister, Hon. Cordel Hyde, Janelle Chanona, the Vice President EU. Since then, Belize has made great thousand dollars per annum paid in the said that the government is committed of Oceana Belize, stated, “The use of strides towards monitoring and base year shall, during the relevant to looking over the numbers and making the Global Fishing Watch technology regulating vessels on the high seas as period, be and remain reduced by ten relevant adjustments, as was agreed on is cost-effective, efficient and a means of eliminating IUU fishing. In percent (10%).” and legislated. enhances vessel monitoring. The addition, the adoption of the revised This is reflected in the salary “The projection is for three years. expanded data sets generated in near High Seas Fishing Act of 2013 revision presented by the government. But the commitment to the Union is that real-time, also improve the quality of introduced an enhanced framework for This circular lists the new pay scales we would revisit this annually to see informed decision-making when it the monitoring of Belize’s fishing fleet. and compares them with the amounts whether we need continue with the cuts matters most.” It is believed that this action that were listed prior to the or whether we can pull back from that. Belize’s fishing fleet, which towards transparency in the Fisheries implementation of the reductions. Every six months, the union side and consists of over 40 vessels, will now Department has improved ocean- The salary cuts, which do not impact the government side will meet and look be viewable to anyone accessing the based food security and will help to workers who previously earned over the numbers to make sure that we public map. This gives governments, ensure healthy ecosystems. It provides $12,000 or less per annum, will affect are doing what we are supposed to do. fishery managers, seafood buyers, checks and balances for fisherfolk who public workers who are on on pay scale And if we are not doing what we are researchers and nonprofit are involved in illegal, unreported and 1 at pay point 9 or at any pay scale supposed to do, and being derailed, we organizations accessibility to unregulated fishing, and levels the above that base. The yearly salary of can get back on track and focus on what information that can greatly improve playing field for fisherfolk who care those government workers (on pay we need to do to meet our targets. So the preservation of populations of about the maintenance of the marine scale 1 at pay point 9) will fall by $307 it’s not permanent. It is for three years,” marine animals as well as enhance ecosystems and food security. from $12,307 to a flat $12,000. On pay Hon. Hyde said. Friday, June 11, 2021 AMANDALABelize Page 5

Some want too much; too many have too little

A lesson we get from the simple adage, “Jack Sprat could Is it that many of us have interests that far outpace our eat no fat, his wife could eat no lean, and so between pursuit of material wealth? Is it that our country is unjust? them both they licked the platter clean”, and the saying, Is it that our leaders are corrupt, and/or lack vision? Why “Different strokes for different folks”, is that when it comes is it that the chance for a decent life for so many of our to tastes— things people like, we are not all the same. people is on par with their chances of winning the Boledo There are people in the fully developed world who hate or the local Lotto? the concrete jungle that surrounds them; they want to live On the matter of the acquisition of material wealth, some in a real one, one with pristine forests and animals and research will have to be done, but it does seem that roots birds, one with sparkling streams that empty into Belizeans — the Creoles, the Mestizos, the East Indians uncontaminated rivers that empty into a sea rich with reefs and Chinese that came as indentured servants in the and fishes and other marine life. There are people who 1800s, the Garinagu, and the Maya, — dream less of have everything the person living in the concrete jungle becoming mighty rich than many Belizeans who came in desires, and every morning they wake up wishing that this the last century — the Lebanese, the Mennonites, the was their day to get on a jet plane heading to a land where Indians, and the Chinese who became Belizean by way of there are skyscrapers and concrete all around them. We economic citizenship. cannot say which of these two people we think is misguided, If a poll were done, would we find that roots Belizeans because, to each their own — one likes fat, another likes are the backbone of the environmental organizations, that lean. these groups consistently and fervently put the protection However, when it comes to the basic needs, we are all of the environment over amassing huge bank accounts? the same. The reason that what a person earns, what their No group in Belize has stood up to environmental take-home pay can buy is important, is because in the degradation as strongly as the Maya in the Toledo district capitalist state (and we are very much that), for there to be have, and a testament to this fact is their majority decision happiness in the land, there are certain goods and services to communally control the lands where they were born and opportunities that persons should be able to access. and make their livelihoods. Generally, for a person to be happy, they must have access At the base of the capitalist system is private ownership to good food and fresh water, good shelter, good education, of land (property), and communal ownership does not fit good health care, and healthy recreation. In countries that mold. Individuals in the communal system will not where people have these things, there is much happiness. outpace the group, and the group will have the power to In countries where people prevent overexploitation of the resources of the land, by have these things, there persons within and without. isn’t much crime. Does our country favor different groups? Is our country Most Belizeans don’t have unjust? There is no question that skin color/hair texture these necessary goods, plays a role in the financial performance of individuals Amandala(estb. 1969) services, and opportunities, and groups in Belize, but since we are unable to completely Business and editorial offices: and as a consequence there overturn a system that has been in place for the past 500 3304 Partridge Street, Belize is much unhappiness and years, we must look to factors over which we have more City, Belize, Central America much crime in our country. control. is printed twice weekly by the Is it that some people just understand the economic Amandala Press. Belizeans desperately want Telephones: 501-280-4703/ these necessary things, and system better than others do? Successful people/groups 501-202-4477 to that end they have put in Belize know the value of cooperation. Many in the roots their faith in a new Belizean group, the Creoles, have adopted a saying: “The government to lead them. only ship that doesn’t sail is a partnership.” That may be a Publisher: Evan X Hyde Belizeans have been putting truth for partnerships, especially if all parties don’t Editor-in-chief: Marco Lopez their faith in governments understand the rules of such associations, but when that Business Manager: Jacinta Hyde for decades, and they are approach/attitude extends to condemnation of Make-up & Design forever disappointed. No cooperation, cooperatives (which it has), we see a part of Artist: Andrea Dennison government has been able the root of the group’s failure. The evidence is clear that Executive Secretary: Odessa to take us to the state where success lies in the whole working together. Robinson Smith all Belizeans have access to Our leaders — is their failure to deliver for us because Compositor: Tyra Welch the things that are necessary they are corrupt? If we look at the uprising in 2005, and the recent strike against a new government that is following Lithography: Clive Smith to make them happy. Belizeans are as blessed one that proved totally inadequate to address the problems Printers: Kent Brooks as any people anywhere in of governance in our country, there is a clear indication the world, because we are that the people in this country believe that our political Please email Correspondence: all made in the image and leaders are/have been very dishonest stewards of our assets. [email protected] likeness of God, so the As it stands today in Belize, there are people who have reason why some have much and are grabbing for more, but all that most Belizeans Advertisements to: plenty and some have very desire is a decent standard of living. Those grabbing for [email protected] little or don’t have anything more enjoy the best that two very different worlds have to has nothing to do with our offer. Largely because of roots Belizeans’ love for the Mailing Address: innate abilities. There has to environment, those persons grabbing for more still enjoy Amandala Press be something wrong in the the wonders of one of the world’s great jewels, Belize, 3304 Partridge Street way we go about carrying on and they also jet-set in Miami and other big cities with the c/o P.O. Box 15, our business, and we have rich and famous in the world. All that might be okay if Belize City, Belize to find out what that is, what their excesses didn’t deprive so many of access to the is holding us back, and do basic goods, services, and opportunities that are essential Amandala’s website: something about it. to happiness. amandala.com.bz Page 6 AMANDALABelize Friday, June 11, 2021 UN SECRETARY-GENERAL’S MESSAGE FOR WORLD OCEANS DAY

This year’s observance of World Overfishing is causing an annual Oceans Day falls as the world loss of almost $90 billion in net wrestles with the COVID-19 benefits – which also heightens the pandemic, a climate crisis and vulnerability of women, who are vital humankind’s continuing assault on to the survival of small-scale fishing oceans, seas and marine resources. businesses. The recently issued Second World Carbon emissions are driving Ocean Assessment confirmed that ocean warming and acidification, many of the benefits that the global destroying biodiversity and causing ocean provides to humankind are sea level rise that threatens heavily being undermined by our own inhabited coastlines. actions. The theme of this year’s Our seas are choking with plastic observance, “The Ocean: Life and waste, which can be found from the Livelihoods”, underscores the remotest atolls to the deepest ocean importance of oceans for the cultural trenches. life and economic survival of communities around the world. More than three billion people rely on the ocean for their livelihoods, the vast majority in developing countries. As we strive to recover from COVID-19, let’s end our war on nature. This will be critical to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, keeping within reach the 1.5-degree In loving memory of a loving mother, grandmother, sister, and beloved target of the Paris Agreement, and friend, Rest in Peace, until ensuring the health of our oceans for we meet again. today’s and future generations. LOUISE AGATHA PITTS – 2nd January, 1929 – 14th June, 2014

In loving memory of BRANDON ELLIS ARNOLD who departed his life on June 9, 2008

Time speeds on. 7 years have passed since the death of our family Matriarch. A shadow cast within our homes; Where, all seemed bright and took from us our shining light. A light we dearly miss, and ever will. We mourn, but not in vain; Deep in our hearts, you are fondly remembered. Sweet, happy memories cling around you, happy being. A true heart that loves you with In my distress, I cried deepest affection, Unto the Lord and He heard me. Will always love you, I will rise in glory. in death, just the same. Sadly missed by family and friends. Friday, June 11, 2021 AMANDALABelize Page 7 Southwest Airline resumes flights to Belize

in the afternoon. Flights from Belize to the US will leave at 2:10 each afternoon and arrive in Houston by 4:40 p.m. FOR RENT There will be a Southwest flight from Colorado to Belize on Saturdays FOR RENT: Furnished one-bedroom only. That flight will leave at 10:50 apartment with A/C Ladyville. Parking a.m. and arrive in Belize at 3:50 p.m. available - 610-3215, $800.00/month. FOR RENT: Single room with private The BTB release states that on that bathroom in Belize City. Single day the flight will leave Belize at occupancy, female only, utilities included. 2:10 p.m. and arrive in Denver at For further details call: 223-7012 or 628- 5:40 p.m. 1561 from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. “Southwest started flying to Belize FOR RENT: one/two/three-bedroom from Denver in early 2017. The unfurnished apartments, fully burglar- airline also offered a non-stop barred, secured parking, secured access, service from Hobby International and fully tiled; located in the Port Loyola Airport in Houston and later on added Area (Belize City) and DFC Area (San a direct flight from Ft. Lauderdale,” Pedro). Tenant to pay own electricity and BELIZE CITY, Thurs. June 10, 2021 2021. the BTB noted in its release. water bills. Interested call: 610-0422 OR Today, the Belize Tourism Board The airline will offer a non-stop The BTB release further states, 670-3540 OR 207-7461 OR 602-8004 announced that Southwest Airlines’ flight from Houston from Sundays to “Air connectivity is the bloodline of flights to Belize from Houston, Texas, Saturdays weekly. Those flights will the Belize tourism industry. The BTB, and Denver, Colorado, are set to depart from Houston at 10:55 each therefore, welcomes the resumption FOR SALE officially resume on November 7, morning and arrive in Belize at 1:15 of flights by Southwest Airlines.” FOR SALE: One 3-bedroom cement bungalow house with 2 bathrooms located at Belama Phase II, serious inquiries only, call: 620-4099 VACANCY

VACANCY: For AC technician. Must have: high school or Vocational school graduate, 3 years’ experience in the field, knows how to service AC units & repair, electrical work is a plus and valid driver’s license. Qualified persons send application to: email: [email protected] application letter, resume, 2 reference letters, copy of social security card and police record or receipt. Deadline: June 21, 2021 VACANCY: Job vacancy for messenger. Must have: 2 years’ experience, high school diploma, valid driver’s & motorcycle license, multi- tasking, good planning & decision- making, physically agile and ability to load and unload items from delivery vehicles. Qualified persons send application to: email: [email protected] application letters, resume, 2 reference letters, copy of social security card and police record or receipt. Deadline: June 21, 2021 VACANCY: Belcove Hotel - Office Clerk - 5:00 p.m. -12:00 p.m. Excel, Word, Math, English, 2 yrs. experience. Email - [email protected] phone: 227- 3054 NOTICE

NOTICE: Please be advised of the loss of boat registration certificate in the name of: Vince Waight, Corozal Town, Corozal District. Registration number: CZL-0030. Name of Boat: D’Real Toppa Toppa LIQUOR LICENSE NOTICE LIQUOR LICENCE NOTICE: Notice is hereby given that Trudy Vandy is applying for a Restaurant Liquor Licence, to be operated at Paradiso Café Ltd, Avenida Hicaco, Caye Caulker, under the Intoxicating Liquor Licence Ordinance Revised Edition 2000. Page 8 AMANDALABelize Friday, June 11, 2021

Algunos quieren demasiado; demasiados tienen muy poco

Una lección que obtenemos del simple adagio, “Jack libaneses, los menonitas, los indios y los chinos que se Sprat no podía comer carne grasa, su esposa no podía hicieron beliceños por medio de la ciudadanía comer carne magra, así que entre los dos dejaron limpio económica. el platón”, y el dicho, “Distintas caricias para distintas Si se hiciera una encuesta, ¿encontraríamos que los personas”, es que cuando se trata de gustos, cosas que le beliceños de la base son la columna vertebral de las gustan a la gente, no todos somos iguales. organizaciones ambientales, que estos grupos priorizan Hay personas en el mundo completamente desarrollado constante y fervientemente la protección del medio que odian la jungla de asfalto que los rodea; quieren vivir ambiente por encima de acumular enormes cuentas en una real, con bosques vírgenes y animales y pájaros, bancarias? Ningún grupo en Belize se ha enfrentado a la con arroyos brillantes que desembocan en ríos degradación ambiental con tanta fuerza como lo han incontaminados que desembocan en un mar rico en hecho los mayas en el distrito de Toledo, y un testimonio arrecifes y peces y otras especies marinas. Hay personas de este hecho es su decisión mayoritaria de controlar que tienen todo lo que desea la persona que vive en la comunalmente las tierras donde nacieron y se ganan la jungla de asfalto, y cada mañana se despiertan deseando vida. que este sea su día para subirse a un avión rumbo a una En la base del sistema capitalista está la propiedad tierra donde hay rascacielos y concreto a su alrededor. privada de la tierra, y la propiedad comunal no encaja No podemos decir cuál de estas dos personas creemos en ese molde. Los individuos en el sistema comunal no que está equivocada, porque, a cada quien lo suyo, a una superarán al grupo, y el grupo tendrá el poder de le gusta lo graso, a la otra le gusta lo magro. prevenir la sobreexplotación de los recursos de la tierra, Sin embargo, en lo que respecta a las necesidades por parte de personas dentro y fuera. básicas, todos somos iguales. La razón por la que lo que ¿Favorece nuestro país a diferentes grupos? ¿Es gana una persona, lo que puede comprar con su salario nuestro país injusto? No hay duda de que el color de la neto, es importante es porque en el estado capitalista (y piel/la textura del cabello juega un papel en el somos meramente eso), para que haya felicidad en la desempeño financiero de individuos y grupos en Belize, tierra, hay ciertos bienes y servicios y oportunidades que pero dado que no podemos revertir por completo un las personas deberían poder acceder. Generalmente, para sistema que ha estado en vigor durante los últimos 500 que una persona sea feliz, debe tener acceso a buena años, debemos considerar los factores sobre los cuales comida y agua fresca, buen refugio, buena educación, tenemos más control. buena atención médica y recreación saludable. En los ¿Es que algunas personas comprenden mejor que países donde la gente tiene estas cosas, hay mucha otras el sistema económico? Las personas/grupos felicidad. En los países donde la gente tiene estas cosas, exitosos en Belize conocen el valor de la cooperación. no hay mucha delincuencia. Muchos en el grupo de los beliceños de la base, los La mayoría de los beliceños no tienen estos bienes, criollos, han adoptado un dicho: “El único barco que servicios y oportunidades necesarios y, como no navega es una colaboración”. Eso puede ser una consecuencia, hay mucha infelicidad y mucha delincuencia verdad para las asociaciones, especialmente si todas en nuestro país. Los beliceños quieren desesperadamente las partes no entienden las reglas de tales asociaciones, estas cosas necesarias, y para ese fin han puesto su fe en pero cuando ese enfoque/actitud se extiende a la un nuevo gobierno que los dirija. Los beliceños han condena de la cooperación, de las cooperativas (cosa depositado su fe en los gobiernos durante décadas y que ha sucedido), vemos una parte de la raíz del fracaso siempre son decepcionados. Ningún gobierno ha podido del grupo. La evidencia es clara de que el éxito radica llevarnos al estado donde todos los beliceños tienen en el conjunto trabajando juntamente. acceso a las cosas que son necesarias para hacerlos felices. Nuestros líderes, ¿se debe su fracaso en cumplir con Los beliceños somos tan bendecidos como cualquier nosotros a que son corruptos? Si miramos el pueblo en cualquier parte del mundo, porque todos levantamiento de 2005 y el reciente paro contra un fuimos hechos a imagen y semejanza de Dios, por lo que nuevo gobierno que le sigue a uno que resultó la razón por la cual algunos tienen mucho y otros tienen totalmente inadecuado para abordar los problemas de muy poco o no tienen nada no tiene nada que ver con gobernabilidad en nuestro país, hay un claro indicio de nuestras habilidades innatas. Tiene que haber algo mal que la gente de este país cree que nuestros líderes en la forma en que llevamos a cabo nuestros negocios, y políticos son/han sido administradores muy deshonestos tenemos que averiguar qué es eso, qué nos detiene, y de nuestros activos. hacer algo al respecto. Tal como están hoy las cosas en Belize, hay personas ¿Tenemos muchos de nosotros intereses que superan que tienen mucho y están buscando más, pero todo lo con creces nuestra búsqueda de riqueza material? ¿Es que la mayoría de los beliceños desean es un nivel de nuestro país injusto? ¿Son nuestros líderes corruptos y/ vida decente. Aquellos que buscan más disfrutan de lo o carecen de visión? ¿Por qué la posibilidad de una vida mejor que dos mundos muy diferentes tienen para digna para tanta gente está a la par con sus posibilidades ofrecer. En gran parte debido al amor que los beliceños de ganar el Boledo o la lotería local? de la base tienene por el medio ambiente, las personas Sobre el tema de la adquisición de riquezas materiales, que buscan más aún disfrutan de las maravillas de una habrá que hacer algunas investigaciones, pero parece de las grandes joyas del mundo, Belize, y también viajan que los beliceños de la base: los criollos, los mestizos, con regularidad a Miami y otras grandes ciudades con los indios orientales y los chinos que llegaron como los ricos y famosos del mundo. Todo eso podría estar sirvientes contratados en el siglo XIX, los garinagu, y los bien si sus excesos no privaran a tantas personas del mayas - sueñan menos con volverse muy ricos que acceso a los bienes, servicios y oportunidades básicos muchos beliceños que llegaron en el siglo pasado - los que son esenciales para la felicidad. Friday, June 11, 2021 AMANDALABelize PagePage 37 A Akeem White killed senselessly in New York WUHAN LAB LEAK: IT’S NOT A “THEORY”

by Thomas Knapp

June 10, 2021 - Was SARS-COV- 2 — the virus responsible for the COVID-19 pandemic — created (or at least weaponized by being made before firing the shot that would transmissible to and between The younger brother of the Director claim his life. humans) in a Chinese research lab? of Days of Healing (Belize), Perry When police went to the scene of Was it then leaked, accidentally or “Sticks” Smith, was gunned down the shooting on East 26th, it was intentionally, from that lab into the senselessly in New York City while already too late, White had Usher, was our secretary during the human population? It’s impossible to walking on Kips Bay on Sunday. succumbed to his injury. New York 1970s and ’80s before moving to overstate the explosive potential of police have made no arrests as yet, New York. Akeem White, the 29-year-old a provable “yes” answer to those two victim, is said to have been minding and their investigation is ongoing. We send our deepest condolences questions. his own business when the gunman Akeem White’s death hits home for to the family and friends of Akeem asked, “What are you looking at?” us at Amandala. His mother, Cecilia White. Seventeen months into the news cycle surrounding those questions (they were first publicly hinted at in a tweet on January 5, 2020), they’re still putting off lots of heat and very little light. And that’s likely to remain the case, because the “Wuhan Lab Leak theory” is not a theory. A theory has to be objectively testable such that if it’s false it can be PROVEN false. Otherwise, it’s just a hypothesis. If my car keys go missing, I can hypothesize that little green faeries (who have the power to fool security cameras) took them in the middle of the night, then forgot to put them back after taking my car out for a joyride, filling the gas tank back up, parking it back where they found it, and rolling back the odometer. My hypothesis “explains” the missing car keys. But it can’t be falsified. If I find the keys in my jacket pocket, well, the faeries obviously put them there, dummy! Many “conspiracy theories” are just hypotheses which continuously change to accommodate any evidence that might disprove them. No, I’m not saying the “Wuhan Lab Leak” hypothesis is a wild-eyed “conspiracy theory.” But it’s also not likely testable or falsifiable. For one thing, the Chinese regime, while notable for many things, is not notable for its likely willingness to let western investigators poke around Wuhan at will, actively assisting those investigators in determining whether it accidentally or intentionally killed millions of human beings and cratered the global economy. For another, the regimes urging such an investigation have a long record of lying about pretty much everything (does “Saddam has WMD” ring any bells? How about “the NSA doesn’t spy on Americans?”), and have already Please turn to„Page D Page B38 AMANDALABelize Friday, June 11, 2021 FCD calls for action in Adjacency Zone

by Dayne Guy According to the FCD, over two- thirds of that portion of land is now SAN JOSE SUCCOTZ, Cayo being used for cultivation of crops and District, Tues. June 8, 2021 cattle ranching by Guatemalans, who The Friends for Conservation and have been setting fires to clear Development (FCD) calls on the portions of the forest for farming. This leaders of Belize and Guatemala to has raised concerns about act on the pillaging of resources deforestation. It is reported that nearly occurring in the Adjacency Zone. The 85% of the deforested areas in the zone is a strip of land that straddles Chiquibul and Caracol region are Belize and Guatemala and is managed located in the Adjacency Zone. by the OAS as a means to minimize Friends for Conservation and the border-related tensions between Development further noted that while Belize and Guatemala. It is 2 there have been Guatemalans coming kilometers in width -- a kilometer into the zone for logging purposes, within the border of each nation. what is more troubling is the presence According to the FCD, the 1 of cattle ranchers in the area. The FCD kilometer of territory that lies within has reported that in some cases, the Guatemalan cattle ranching in the Chiquibul area Belize is heavily compromised. While cattle ranchers are exceeding the 1- the area was initially demarcated to km territorial limit. of scheduled patrols, park rangers from indicated, however, that the peccary promote cooperation between the The FCD condemns all forms of the Chiquibul National Park found two has since been confiscated and is being neighboring countries, Guatemalan encroachment and calls for more Guatemalan poachers in the area who cared for in a wildlife clinic, while activity has been steadily building up patrols in the area. According to were in possession of game meat and the poachers have been handed over in the area. reports, on Saturday, June 5, as a result a white-lipped peccary. The FCD has to the San Ignacio police. Friday, June 11, 2021 AMANDALABelize PagePage 39 C PUBLIC AUCTION SALE: PROPERTIES San Pedro, Ambergris Caye, Belize District; Hopkins Village, Stann Creek District

BY ORDER of the Mortgagees, Licensed Auctioneers Kevin A. Castillo & Christiana R. Castillo are selling ONLINE via belizepropertyauctions.com the properties appearing below. Sales currently running and will expire on Friday 2nd July 2021 at the times shown on the website.

1. Strata H15 & H 16 of Parcel No. 4879, 1½ miles west San Pedro Town Centre, on the east coast of “Laguna De San Pedro”, Casa Linda Villas, Casa Corbu, Costa Del Sol, Ambergris Caye, Belize District:

REGISTRATION SECTION BLOCK PARCEL San Pedro 7 4879 (H15& H16)

(Being 2 two storey SEA FRONT single unit villa each 1510 sq. ft. + deck 291 sq. ft: Ground floor - living/dining/kitchen + open deck + porch; First floor - 2 bedrooms + 21/2 bathrooms being two units of the Casa Linda Villas situate 1½ miles west San Pedro Town Centre, on the east coast of “Laguna De San Pedro”, Costa Del Sol, Ambergris Caye, Belize District, the freehold property of Messrs. GRL Investment Ltd.)

2. Parcel No. 6100 Mahogany Bay Village, San Pedro, Ambergris Caye, Belize District:

REGISTRATION SECTION BLOCK PARCEL San Pedro 7 6100

(Being an incomplete concrete building and waterway lot [410.74 sq. yd.] situate within Mahogany Bay Village (formerly Grand Oasis Development), San Pedro, Ambergris Caye, Belize District, the freehold property of Messrs. Golf Victor Bravo Ltd.)

3. Parcel No. 1 - 15.21 Acres RIVER SIDE, north Hopkins Village, Stann Creek District:

REGISTRATION SECTION BLOCK PARCEL Hopkins Village 31 1

(Being 15.21 Acres of vacant river front land, suited for tourist development, situate approximately 300 yds. from the Caribbean Sea, north Hopkins Village, Stann Creek District, the freehold property of Messrs. Hopkins Harbour Limited.)

TERMS: STRICTLY CASH KEVIN A. CASTILLO CHRISTIANA R. CASTILLO TELEPHONE 223-4488 Website: www.belizepropertyauctions.com E-mail: [email protected] Face Book: Belize Auctions Page D40 AMANDALABelize Friday, June 11, 2021 Ethiopia’s Tigray crisis: UN aid chief says there is famine

June 10, 2021- BBC news district in the west of Tigray, UN humanitarian chief Mark told the BBC this week they Lowcock has said there is famine in were on the verge of northern Ethiopia after the release of starvation.”We don’t have a UN-backed analysis of the anything to eat,” one man said situation.”There is famine now,” he by phone, explaining their said, adding: “This is going to get a crops and livestock had been lot worse.” looted during seven months of The analysis found that 350,000 war. They were being people were living in “severe crisis” prevented from seeking aid by in the war-torn Tigray region, as well a militia fighting with as neighbouring Amhara and government forces, he added. Afar.Tigray has been devastated by “We were eating small fighting between government forces remains of crops that we and rebels, with 1.7 million people managed to hide, but now we displaced. don’t have anything,” said a According to the analysis, the food farmer in his 40s. situation in the region has reached the “Nobody has given us any level of a “catastrophe”, which it aid. Almost everyone is on the defines as starvation and death verge of death - our eyes are affected is a measure of the severity of food humanitarian access, loss of harvest affecting small groups of people by the hunger, the situation is perilous. shortages, drawn up by multiple and livelihood assets, and spread over large areas. Death is knocking on our door. You organisations which include UN dysfunctional or non-existent The UN’s World Food Programme can see the hunger on the face of each agencies and non-governmental aid markets,” the analysis adds. (WFP), Food and Agriculture of us.” organisations. It says that as of May, 5.5 million Organization and children’s agency Residents said they had seen “An IPC analysis update conducted people were facing high levels of Unicef have all called for urgent action vehicles carrying aid pass by, but no- in Tigray and the neighbouring zones acute food insecurity in the region and to address the crisis. The analysis - one had bothered to inquire about of Amhara and Afar concludes that the situation was likely to worsen or Integrated Phase Classification their predicament. In 1984, Tigray over 350,000 people are in through to September. (IPC) as it is known - was not endorsed and the next-door province of Wollo Catastrophe (IPC Phase 5) between But the report stops short of by Ethiopia’s government, which were the epicentre of a famine caused May and June 2021,” the report says. officially declaring a famine, which insists that humanitarian access is by a combination of drought and war “This severe crisis results from the has a very specific definition. being expanded as it restores order that led to between 600,000 and one cascading effects of conflict, across the region. million deaths. including population displacements, This article was first published by People in Qafta Humera, an isolated The Integrated Phase Classification movement restrictions, limited BBC News. Left-Wing Trade Unionist Pedro Castillo WUHAN LAB LEAK: Will Be President of Peru IT’S NOT A Mendoza or the nationalist former president Ollanta Humala, actually “THEORY” only underline just how shocking it will be to see someone of Castillo’s Continued from Page A social and political background in the „ Government Palace. spent a good deal of time setting Fueling a general climate of China up as their latest “adversary.” uncertainty is the fact that Peru It’s hard to imagine any situation in currently has the world’s highest which those who WANT to believe official COVID-19 death toll, and has in — or stand to gain political power seen an 11 percent contraction of the from selling — the “Wuhan Lab economy and a 10 percent rise in poverty in just the last year. If the Leak” hypothesis would concede that country’s acute social and economic they were mistaken. crisis was a decisive factor in It’s a hypothesis, not a theory, and Castillo’s victory, it also will be it’s likely to stay that way. When posing questions about the incoming dealing with hypotheses, our best administration’s ability to govern — analytical tool is Occam’s Razor. a question compounded by uncertainty Simple version: The explanation over the composition of the future requiring the fewest assumptions is administration, Castillo’s uneasy the likeliest. by NICOLAS ALLEN repeated accusations of voter fraud, relationship with his own party, Perú there is little appetite in Peru to follow Libre, and how he will stand up to a Which explanation requires fewer Peru was the birthplace of her lead. The 7.7 percent drop on the majority opposition in Congress. assumptions? neoliberal populism under Alberto Lima Stock Exchange seems to With so many question marks That, like most human infectious Fujimori. Now Pedro Castillo, a confirm what everyone else knows: hanging over the future of Peru, there diseases (60% according to the US socialist trade unionist from an Pedro Castillo will be the Republic are still important takeaways from Centers for Disease Control), SARS- indigenous background, has won its of Peru’s next president. Castillo’s historic win that provide COV-2 jumped from animals to presidency. As the dust settles on an election some indication of where the country humans via random mutation? Even as the last votes are still being cycle marked by anti-communist may be headed, the battles that await Or that, unlike (almost — the 2001 tallied in Peru’s nail-biter elections, hysteria, questions are now turning to his administration, and the strategies anthrax attacks may be an exception) it looks like left-wing presidential what a future Castillo government Castillo should pursue to turn the contender Pedro Castillo will hold on might look like. Peru has never had a unprecedented left-wing triumph at the any other past disease, SARS-COV- to his narrow lead over right-wing president that remotely resembled ballot box into a popular victory for 2 was weaponized in a lab and opponent Keiko Fujimori. The Castillo — an indigenous, left-wing the Peruvian people. released into the human population? Organization of American States has trade unionist. The only immediate Occam tells us to choose Door already declared the elections clean comparisons, the policy-driven This article was first published Number One. And good sense tells and fair, and despite Fujimori’s progressive politician Verónika on Jacobinmag.com. us to stop obsessing Friday, June 11, 2021 AMANDALABelize Page 9

“One idiot is one idiot. Two attempt by a Cabinet element in the Chief Justice, and the only conclusion material will go down in history.) idiots are two idiots. Ten thousand PUP to right their financial ship of we in the streets could come to was I will offer this personal idiots are a political party.” state. At the time, the PUP was 54- that the ComPol was being supported perspective to you, however. On the years old, Belize had been by our Prime Minister at the time, Rt. Saturday afternoon of that weekend, —Franz Kafka (1883-1924) independent for 23 years, and the Hon. Dean Barrow. The executive Prime Minister Musa visited my PUP held 26 of the 31 seats in the was overruling the judiciary, or so it Seashore Drive home on his way to “CABINET CONFRONTATION House of Representatives. The PUP seemed. the San Joaquin Fiesta in Corozal. ENDS IN COMPROMISE” — had won a landslide victory (28-3) The reality was that the UDP, The relationship between Mr. headline story by Adele Ramos in over Dr. Manuel Esquivel’s UDP in which had won overwhelmingly in Musa and the caudillo of the North, AMANDALA No. 1887, of Sunday, August of 1998 and then won big February of 2008, only held a 17-14 Hon. Florencio Marin, Sr. (El August 15, 2004 again, over Dean Barrow’s UDP, in margin over the PUP in 2013, after Honorable), had been strained since March of 2003. the 2012 general election. So that, had Mr. Musa defeated Mr. Marin in a In my midweek column, I said that There are experts on the the UDP lost the Penner seat in Cayo PUP leadership convention in 1996 neither the People’s United Party Constitution of Belize and on the following a police investigation, their to succeed Rt. Hon. George Price. (PUP) or the United Democratic Party system of governance in our margin would have been a razor-thin (Again, Mr. Marin had led a (UDP), Belize’s two major political parliamentary democracy whom I 16-15. movement sometimes referred to as parties, want to talk about the G-7 respect, such as Senator Henry Mr. Barrow, one assumes, was not “May 15,” which, following the 1994 episode in August of 2004. Needless Gordon. I do not possess such about to risk losing power. We Town Board elections in which the to say, the two political parties have expertise, so all I offer in my column, Belizeans can all see that UDP PUP had been badly beaten by the different reasons for not wanting to from time to time, is carefully politicians and cronies did very, very UDP, was at odds with the discuss the historical episode. considered opinion. The UDP should well for themselves during Mr. mainstream PUP, wherein Musa, The UDP do not want to discuss have had a G-7 moment, I submit, Barrow’s three terms of office, from Ralph Fonseca and Glenn Godfrey the G-7 matter, because the UDP has when the Elvin Penner/Citizen Kim 2008 to 2020. Mr. Barrow ruled like had increased their power. The 1994 never shown the ability, in its 48-year passport scandal broke in late 2013, an absolute monarch within the UDP, fuss had been settled in a PUP history, to make an attempt to clean and the then Commissioner of Police because he allowed his minions to national convention later that year.) up itself in the face of overwhelming defied the Chief Justice when Justice be happy, to do whatever benefited But on that G-7 weekend, all evidence of financial irregularities. Benjamin ordered him to investigate them. My personal feeling is that the indications are that Musa and Marin G-7, on the other hand, represented the matter. The then Commissioner of Barrow reign was a corrupt one, but cut a deal when Said went to San an extraordinary and unprecedented Police did not so do, ignored the there was never even the hint of a Joaquin. Briceño was removed from challenge to that corruption from leadership of the Northern Caucus within. and replaced by Dave Burgos. And The evidence is there — it surfaced by the Monday morning, August 16, in the Social Security Board (SSB) the rhetoric coming out of the and Development Finance Northern Caucus had become almost Corporation (DFC) investigations violent in its hostility to G-7 and after G-7 — that there was corruption support for the Musa administration. inside the Said Musa administration There were people in the G-7, of 1998 to 2008. There are powerful specifically Eamon Courtenay and PUP personalities who still seriously Godfrey Smith, who have to be despise what the G-7 did, because considered as representing the the G-7 attempt to control Ralph interests of Lord Michael Ashcroft. Fonseca and Glenn Godfrey led to In other words, they may have been division inside the PUP, and its defeat more watchdogs than pit bulls. in the 2008 general election. (Check Servulo Baeza was a John Briceño the Franz Kafka quote at the top of loyalist. the page.) Until the UDP can find it Cordel Hyde and Mark Espat were/ within themselves to address felonies are brothers-in-law. inside their own party, however, the Joe Coye failed to stand with Espat PUP will go down in Belize’s history and Hyde when Prime Minister Musa as the only one of the two parties to counter-attacked on December 28, attempt the correction of corruption. 2004, firing Mark Espat from The members of G-7 were John Cabinet. So it was that Coye served Briceño, Deputy Prime Minister at out his term as a Cabinet Minister the time (who was in Chicago for until he lost his Caribbean Shores most of the four days of crisis); Joe seat in the February 2008 general Coye; Cordel Hyde; Mark Espat; election. Servulo Baeza; Eamon Courtenay; I think I have discussed enough of and Godfrey Smith. the G-7 episode to give you an idea These Cabinet Ministers (except of the situation in which the teachers for the absent Briceño) confronted and the public officers found Prime Minister Musa on the morning themselves recently. The two political of Thursday, August 12, 2004. There parties, if we are to judge by the state is nowhere you can go in Belize to of Belize’s public finances, are research all the intra-party details of crooked and corrupt. Clearly, there what followed from that Thursday is a systemic problem which has led until the following Monday, when Belize to the financial precipice on matters threatened to become violent. which we now find ourselves. (After I wrote the previous sentence, It should be noted, for the record, I went into Amandala’s archives, and that the two highest ranking leaders I realized that Adele Ramos was at of the new PUP administration, John her peak in those days, and wrote the Briceño and Cordel Hyde, were G-7 relevant headline stories on G-7. Her Cabinet Ministers in August of 2004. Page 10 AMANDALABelize Friday, June 11, 2021 Public Service Ministry launches job website

search website, which will now serve as the centralized hub for advertising vacancies, and for the submission, review and acceptance of job applications in the public sector, was launched by the Ministry of Public Service. The new website is an effort to optimize human resource management in the Ministry and provide an easier application process for potential future public servants. A release from the Government of Belize Press Office says, “It is the hope that ministries and departments will be able to attract a wider audience, which will increase the by Dayne Guy number of qualified applicants.” It further increases the reach of the BELMOPAN, Mon. June 7, 2021 ministry during times of COVID-19, Today, Monday, June 7, a new job making it possible to receive applications and minimize the risk of virus transmission. Job-seekers can create an account on the website, search for jobs in their relevant field or by title, create an e- resume and apply for a job, and ultimately view the status of their application on the same platform. This website is one component of the Government’s plan to digitize its services. The Public Service Ministry invites those seeking job opportunities to visit the website at https://jobs.publicservice.gov.bz/ and apply for available posts. The site can be visited directly, or prospective employees can access the link for the site via the ministry’s webpage. Coordinator of the Human Resource Management Information Systems (HRMIS) Unit, Rhodeisha Simpson, said, “As highlighted, one of the roles of the HRMIS unit is to support the efficient management of the human resource management function of the public service through the use of information systems. Early on within the new admin, each head of unit on the Ministry of Public Service, Constitutional and Political Reform was given a task… of identifying ways of improving service and improving the way things are done.” The Minister of Public Service, Constitutional and Political Reform, Hon. Henry Charles Usher, encourages interested persons to make suggestions to improve the ease of use of this new job-searching tool.

Moments of Inspiration Sundays - 6:00 a.m. - 8:30 a.m. Friday, June 11, 2021 AMANDALABelize Page 11

UDP looks like a shipwreck; Faber’s hard decision

by Colin Hyde Speaker and Mr. Henry as a mighty Bah, look at their mess. Reports UDP 1993-1998 did not have any Minister — to exalt the scourge are that Dean Lindo was involved creativity. The UDP won in 2008 The 1984-89 UDP – I won’t say weed to a state of semi-legal status. in some major hanky panky; a hero because the PUP imploded in an much bad about that UDP, because Of things that come up short of true reportedly got kicked out of the party ideological war, and the UDP won Brother Henry Young gives me beer glory, my dad always says, knocks he helped build because a paltry few again in 2012 and 2015 because the to drink when I go by his place, and nothing to hell. gallons of paint disappeared; they PUP remained divided. he sits me around a table with Oh how Brother Chiste refused Amandala a radio license, Much of the dirty, smelly dealings luminaries named Rhaburn, a disappointed when he put weed threatened to jail them if they dared of those UDP regimes was about to luminary of luminaries in the arts, behind him to become a favorite in to challenge the grip Radio Belize come to light at the “inquest”, but and Fairweather+, a luminary of Manuel’s Cabinet! Well, those two had on the airwaves; they were Cutty made a speech, and the luminaries in the fight to save our old bohga collaborators, Henry and unable to peacefully prevent Rufus Reporter allowed Rudon, the third country, and other bright lights with my dad, probably never smoked a X from declaring his candidacy in of the PUP’s Goebbels trio – Hall, names like Smiling, and Miller, and spliff in their lives, which just goes Belize Rural North; they burned all Reid, and Rudon – to fall back in Stuart, and of course the great Henry to show that the world is full of, and the weed fields, paying no mind to with the bad crowd. All the rumors Young himself. will never run out of, surprises. the killing of tomatoes and bees; say that it was Mike who pulled the It was there, while sitting around Ah, let me not forget that other their leader… plug. that table, that I saw OJ luminary who came by. It was there, …I was walking on the highway The UDP leaders stumbled badly, Elrington…wait, OJ, he’s no while sitting at Sir Henry’s Round that passes through my village – and and it is just incredible that an entire luminary. Brother, you have a heck Table, that I got to see, in person, I’m disrupted again because I’m party has ZERO talents within their of a nerve and a lot to do to restore the first and only time, the architect thinking pathway in my village, and ranks who have the credentials to your image after you used the punk of the UDP that let us down so badly. there was none then, and along came take over. My, this UDP crowd, they litigation law that was made to Before going on, let me put out there John and did a part, and now along are the closest thing to Humpty protect the Crown, to go after the that Mr. Vasquez cannot be blamed comes Julius and he is doing some Dumpty falling off a wall. most serious PUP, Vaughan. If you for the – insert appropriate local wonderful things out here. There has Of the gang in the House not named think I mean Vaughn Gill, you should expletive – that Manuel and Dean to be a full story for that, but until Faber, Tracy looked straight into our check yourself. did. then I want to tell Julius to make sure faces and told us the Brad’s contract Let’s be serious. OJ is too This UDP is a wreck. But, Mr. he doesn’t grow up to be like John. was on the up and up. For all that, I unelectable to get a seat at Mr. Young, he had a good run, and he He, John, fell from a position of was surprised that she ran so poorly Henry’s table, unless he’s buying the was not alone, because the great hero grace. in the party elections. We were drinks. He, OJ, he was parading with of heroes, PSWG, was also in that Yep, I’m walking on the side of shown how much Hugo adored a a pretty girl in the restaurant proper, first UDP Cabinet that was formed. the highway, and along comes this Tacoma. Shyne turned to the church, and a wandering eye saw the girl I’ll skip the other good heroes (there large white car racing at highball which was a good thing. Sista B in first, then OJ, and then I got to were a few) to tell you that the UDP speed, and I admire the Queen, but politics shows that Barrow learned thinking of the luck enjoyed by saved the economy by selling if it was she I would have cussed nothing from Esquivel. There’s the lawyers in Belize, and then I got to passports, selling shares in BTL, and the Crown, because if you’re not an Vasquez script. Some are born to be thinking we’ll have to do something winning the great favor of USAID. ambulance or a fire engine, don’t king. Some are born to be about them, the male ones, because Hurrah, they also sniffed that a drive crazy around me. Hn, I might kingmakers. none of them can tie the shoelaces British lord would be renewing ties amount to nothing in this life, but you Of the gang out of the House, of Fidel, Nelson, or the Mahatma. with the country after he saw the don’t know God’s plans. Give Price Saldivar can’t admit that at best he Pardon the distraction; it was possibilities, and they headed him the props for always treating has terrible judgment; Bradley can’t there, while seated at the table for off with a special share. villagers with total respect. Manuel understand that he did Wagner and the selects – okay, let me explain. Hmm, I’m about to say something should have told his driver to slow the PUP City Council a terrible My dad can’t move around anymore, bad about Dean Lindo, so let me down, give space to the peons wrong; and then there’s Pere, who and Mr. Henry uses me as a courier. state in a rush that sans proper walking on the road, because they gets his high from—kicking ass. You know, those two used the stature investigation and discussion I cannot are creations of God, and our My gudnis, the UDP pantry is so they gained from high office in say yay or nay to his Ministry Constitution says they have a right bare, and over there, the PUP, they Belize — my dad as a former privatizing banana. to life. are so loaded that they have talent that can’t find a division to run in. I’m for Belize, first, second, and third, so I am making suggestions to this weakling UDP to help them put some red in that flag that’s gone pale, luk like pastel pink to me. The UDP should welcome some blue to their party. They can also draw some talent from the third parties. And they can draw from the lawyer pool. My advice to the UDP is, if they want to go for unaffiliated lawyers, please, no males. All these things take time, and right now all they got, bah, is Faber. It looks bleak for that door stomper, but if the UDP could win three consecutive terms, anything is possible. What I recommend for him is daunting, but he can take consolation in the fact that there is precedent. Hey, Patrick, George did it, and you can, must too. I say, Braa, you got to swear off dem women. Visit our website www.amandala.com.bz Page 12 AMANDALABelize Friday, June 11, 2021 THE SORRY STATE OF BELIZEAN Institution: Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) NURSING Country: Belize Project: Solid Waste Management Project II (SWMPII) Symptoms of a Sector: Waste Management Longstanding Abstract: Consulting Contract for the Development of the Mid-Term Evaluation. Loan No.: 3684/OC-BL Malady Deadline: June 25, 2021 by Dr. Bernard Bulwer 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 for the Development When a nation frustrates and of the Mid-Term Evaluation. disrespects the nursing profession — the very people to whom the bulk of The Objective of the consultancy is is to conduct an independent mid-term evaluation of the Solid Waste Management Project II. patient care is entrusted, and who Utilizing the evaluation criteria of relevance, effectiveness, efficiency, impact and sustainability, a comprehensive analysis should make the real difference in patient be conducted based on the original design, objectives, targets and indicators while taking into consideration the various opportunities, care and outcomes…. issues and challenges experienced over the elapsed period of implementation and confronting the project for the future. The resulting report should include recommendations for improvements to the work plan and corrective actions for improved operational ... When, as I oftentimes saw efficiencies, and effectiveness for the remaining duration of the project. during my 2009-2011 tenure, there is often a single registered nurse The Belize Solid Waste Management Authority, the Executing Agency, now invites interested eligible individual consultant to manning an entire hospital ward submit Expressions of Interest indicating qualification and experience required to provide these consultancy services listed below. during night shifts at the KHMH— A) SCOPE OF SERVICE the national hospital… 1. As a first task, the Consultant will review all relevant technical and operational documentation related to the Project, including, ... When their Bliss School of but not limited to: i) Loan contract; ii) the Semester Reports and Annual Operating Plans prepared by the PMU; iii) and the Bank’s Nursing on the KHMH campus was Project Monitoring Report and Loan Results Report. hijacked in times past by government departments that had nothing to do 2. The Consultant will meet and collect data from all key stakeholders who are directly involved in the implementation of the with nursing, then allowed to fall into project in order to review project activities, results and challenges from their perspective.. disrepair… 3. The consultant should review project activities, results and challenges from the perspective of the project team members and ... When this very Bliss School of operational staff of the project. The Consultant will complete a thorough analysis of the technical aspects of each Component and Nursing which also emphasized each Activity planned and as completed with significant attention being paid to: Practical Nursing education that generated scores of nurses who were (i) the appropriateness and viability of the original design and scope of the project; (ii) the specific activities, outputs, results and impacts achieved since the beginning of the original loan program in September on the ground in the hospital from day 2016 particularly as related to the operational targets and indicators included in the and Results Matrix of 3684/OC-BL. one (who learned while working plus (iii) the cost-effectiveness of the various technical activities completed [i.e., were the results received from the various weren’t the targets of foreign contractors/consultants and procurements commensurate with the cost paid for the services and products delivered] recruiters)… (iv) For each Component and each Activity identify and describe major issues/challenges to achieving the operational targets ... When the above was replaced and indicators and recommend possible measures to avoid these issues/challenges impediments for the future in this operation. by 2-3 years of classroom-only (v) Analyse the operational aspects of the project execution including the effectiveness of the PEU . Present issues and lessons learned to instruct and guide the development and execution of future operations. education on the UB campus in Belmopan ... instead of occurring in 4. The consultant will analyse the institutional aspects of project execution including the overall awareness of the Project at the the hospital (Nursing and Medicine senior technical level of the key Government agencies, highlighting positive aspects and significant challenges and issues faced. In are and remain apprenticeships.)… this regard the Consultant will pay particular attention to recommending measures to improve inter-agency coordination and project ... When the medical authorities execution management. ignore the importance of scores of our Specifically with regards to the SWMP II the Consultant will analyse/review the following: retired senior nurses who can still make valuable inputs at the KHMH • Project administration and management (coordination with other Government agencies involved in the project, reporting, (and other hospitals) but are instead communication, and document management) put out to pasture, disrespected and • Project resources required versus existing. ignored, without an appreciation of • Project schedule/program to completion of works and challenges versus expected output/outcome. • Cost and program management the fact that a nurse is always a • Key project risks national asset that should not be ‘retired’… 5. The Consultant shall then recommend measures to improve on the above issues and project execution management. ... When the Faculty of Nursing leaders and non-visionary leadership B) QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE Consultant should have a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in Business and Development Studies or related field and has undertaken at the University of Belize (UB) don’t at least five (5) consultancies that involves the planning, development, management, analysis and evaluation of international take seriously that their core mandate development projects. and responsibility, that the primary purpose of UB, is to fill the national Experience working in the Caribbean and Belize and be fluent in English will be considered an asset. needs of the country — with no shortage of Belizeans to recruit and Interested individual Consultants must provide information demonstrating that they have the required qualification and relevant experience to perform the Services. In the assessment of submissions, consideration will be given to qualifications and experience train ... on similar assignments. ... And then having to resort to foreigners who often lack deep Consultants will be selected in accordance with the procedures set out in the Inter-American Development Bank: Policies for the understanding of the Belizean Selection and Contracting of Consultants financed by the Inter-American Development Bank - GN-2350-15, and is open to all language and culture — made worse eligible candidates as defined in the policies. by them getting more perks and benefits The individual consultant will be selected in accordance with the Selection of Individual Consultants method set out in the Consultants than our Belizean nurses…. Policies. ... When our nurses (I can speak volumes on this.) don’t feel the love 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. local and care from their authorities and time. country and naturally gravitate to those Expressions of interest must be emailed (one (1) complete PDF file) to the address below by 3:00 p.m. on Friday, June 25, 2021. who promise such…. ... We are then wittingly or Solid Waste Management Authority unwittingly blind. Attn: Mrs. Melanie Gladden, Procurement Officer If the Belizean nation and authorities 3013 Bougainvillea Street, Orchid Garden Area insist on remaining blind to these and City of Belmopan, Belize, C.A. Tel: (501) 802 1527 related issues, perhaps it’s worth PO Box 285 considering the likelihood that our E-mail: [email protected] nation is not just on the slippery slope, but standing on the precipice. Friday, June 11, 2021 AMANDALABelize Page 13 Page 14 AMANDALABelize Friday, June 11, 2021 From the Publisher

Reproduced from page 9 of the Tuesday, May June 8, 2021, #3466 issue of Amandala

We all know that Belize is a small alienated, or sometimes even personality, some politics, some a deal with Musa/Fonseca, because place. Personal friendships, as do hostile, is almost inexplicable to me, basketball, and the Good Lord when Mark Espat was dashed out of personal antagonisms, spring because while his older brother knows what else. Things began Cabinet and his Ministry of Tourism seemingly out of nowhere Francis, the orthopedic surgeon, was coming to a head when he held a in late December of 2004, Godfrey sometimes, and they don’t have to studying in Cuba in the early 1980s, powerful position in the Opposition inherited all his portfolios and have any particular logic to them. we held several cordial People’s United Party (PUP) general responsibilities. The Smith star kept In this column, I have to discuss conversations at my First Street election campaign of 1998, and sent shining brighter and brighter. the personal antagonism between the home (King’s Park) during Francis’ advertisements attacking the ruling It occurred to me at some point, attorney Godfrey Smith and myself, breaks from his medical studies. To United Democratic Party (UDP) and remember I am a member of the because I want to focus on the be truthful, I don’t think I knew who Deputy Prime Minister, Hon. Dean Otis Redding/Aretha Franklin 1960s general election campaign in Godfrey was until he became an Barrow, to our newspaper, generation (R-E-S-P-E-C-T), that Pickstock in February 2008, and I attorney and joined the Barrow & advertisements for which we were Godfrey Smith and I were on a want to question the consistency of Williams law firm, in the early sued by Hon. Dean’s younger collision course. So, it was in the the attorney Wilfred “Sedi” 1990s, if I remember correctly. brother, Denys. flow of things that I supported Sedi, Elrington, to put it mildly. The alienation between Godfrey I sent the lawsuit papers to the UDP Pickstock candidate who How Godfrey and I became and myself involved some Godfrey, because I felt no was running in 2008 against responsibility for the ad content. Godfrey, the incumbent whose Apparently, Godfrey did not defend massive financial support from the the suit, for whatever the reason(s), Lord was obvious. and one day a few months after the Sedi won, and almost immediately PUP won the August 1998 general accepted a $200,000 gift from Lord SUPPLY OF FISH to election, Denys Barrow wrote me Ashcroft, which he used to open the to say I owed him $10,000 for libel Samuel Haynes School of Karl Heusner Hospital Authority damages involved with the Excellence. I was frigging stunned! aforementioned Dean Barrow For the last few weeks Mr. lawsuit. Godfrey had thrown me to Elrington has been writing a Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital Authority now invites the wolves, so to speak. That was personal column in The Reporter. my impression. The sanctimonious and self– eligible bidders to submit a sealed quotation for the Basketball entered the picture righteous tone of the Sedi column is supply of the Scaled and Gutted Fish. The types of fish around the turn of the century when unbelievable, and the man Nuri are to include Snapper, Mackerel, Ocean Jack, Jew Fish Godfrey became a big man, probably Muhammad recently took him up on the biggest, in the BTL Nets semi- some of his column positions in a and Barrow. However, the Barrow fish is not to be pro organization. Remember, Lord personal letter to The Reporter. provided during the months of July to October. Michael Ashcroft owned BTL at that If you read Mr. Elrington’s time, and he and Godfrey had become column, you would have no idea he The Successful bidder will be provided with an official very good friends. It was important just spent 13 years as a high-ranking to Lord Ashcroft’s huge ego that the Cabinet Minister in the Dean KHMH Purchase Order one ( 1 ) month in advance Raiders be defeated, and the burden Barrow UDP government. For detailing the quantity of 250 Lbs per week and where of proof fell on Mr. Godfrey. instance, he brought up the national A few months before the March service corps idea a couple months the month have five ( 5 ) weeks , 125 Lbs in the fifth 2003 general election, Godfrey made ago, an idea which C. B. Hyde week. a big-time political move when he introduced from the early 1990s. contested the candidacy for the Sedi brought up the topic as if it The Interested bidders will obtain further information PUP’s Pickstock constituency. Rt. were his own idea and as if it were by contacting the address given below. Hon. George Price was bowing out, an original concept. I shook my head and his nephew, Bobby Usher, was in disbelief. running to replace him as PUP Last week in his column Sedi Ms. Virginia Gonsalez Pickstock boss. Remember now, wanted to know why Belize City Prime Minister Said Musa was very Southside youth cannot be peaceful Purchase Manager close to the Usher family, and in and productive like Mennonite support of Bobby. (As Said’s friend, youth. I am writing this column Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital Authority I supported Bobby.) This was a very because I just got tired of listening bold move by Godfrey. And, he won to this multimillionaire attorney, a Belize City big. He went on to win the Pickstock Belizean who made many of his first seat, and became a part of the PUP’s millions alienating Belizean lands Tel # 223 – 1548 . Ext 456 2003–2008 Cabinet. Godfrey into the control of people from Smith’s political future appeared Taiwan and Hong Kong in the first exceedingly bright. UDP administration (1984-1989). But, in the words of Gian Maria Belize and the world respect Volonte (from the Eastwood wealth. Therefore, Sedi Elrington All the written bids must be delivered to the above Western), “he ran into me.” This was must be respected, because he is address no later than 3.00 p.m. (Belize Time) on G-7 in August of 2004, and G-7 is a wealthy. But there is almost nothing Tuesday June 22, 2021. Electronic Submission will not subject neither the PUP nor the UDP coming out of his mind which has a want to talk about, for different positive relevance for the masses of be permitted. Late submission will be rejected. reasons. I will have to deal with this Belizean youth. This is as the power matter in detail sometime soon. But, structure designed it. The individual The bids will be opened at 4.00 p.m. (Belize Local time) surprise, surprise, this column is not native can become successful, but on Tuesday June 22,2021 at the Conference room of really about Godfrey Smith: it’s the bottom line is that his perspective about Sedi Elrington. on life must be 100 percent selfish. the KHMH hospital in the presence of the bidders Godfrey was one of the 7 PUP Such is Sedi’s perspective. And, I representatives who choose to attend. Ministers who rebelled against suppose you can throw in Godfrey’s Ralph Fonseca’s handling (or mis- as well. handling) of public funds in the Musa administration. But then, he cut Power to the people. Friday, June 11, 2021 AMANDALABelize Page 15

MINISTRY OF HEALTH AND WELLNESS INVITATION TO TENDER TO BID FOR SUPPLY AND DELIVERY OF EQUIPMENT TO SUPPORT THE INSTALLATION OF PICTURE ARCHIVING COMMUNICATION SYSTEM (PACS)

1. The Government of Belize (GOB) has received grant funding from the Republic of China (Taiwan) towards the cost of a Project titled “Project for Strengthening Medical Imaging Systems” and intends to apply proceeds of this grant funding towards the purchase of the below listed equipment.

2. The GOB, acting through the Ministry of Health and Wellness, now invites sealed Bids for Supply and Delivery of Computers and Communication Related Goods.

3. Procurement of the goods will be conducted through Open Tendering Procedure.

4. This invitation is opened to all eligible Bidders as described in the Bidding Documents.

5. Interested eligible Bidders may obtain further information and inspect the Bidding Documents. For this purpose, the original Bidding Documents are available for view during office hours from 8:30 am to 11:30 am and from 1:30pm to 4:30 pm, from Monday to Friday, except public holidays, at the address given below:

Ministry of Health and Wellness Policy Planning and Project Management Unit 2nd Floor, East Block Building City of Belmopan Cayo District, Belize, C.A. Tel : 501-822-0992 E-mail : [email protected]

6. Qualification requirements are as specified in Instructions to Bidders, Clause 14, Documents “Establishing the Eligibility and Qualifications of the Bidder”, and in the Bid Data Sheet.

7. A complete set of Bidding Documents in English may be picked up by interested Bidders on the submission of a written application to the address given in paragraph 11 below.

8. Bids must be delivered to the address given below in paragraph 11, on or before June 18, 2021 at 2:00 p.m., local time. Late bids will be rejected. Electronic bidding shall not be permitted. Interested public/NGO/Civil societies may also attend the bid opening.

9. All bids shall be accompanied by a Bid Securing Declaration as specified in the Instructions to Bidders.

10. The Government of Belize will declare a firm ineligible either indefinitely or for a stated period of time, to be awarded a contract financed by the Government of Belize, if it at any time determines that the firm has engaged in corrupt or fraudulent, coercive or collusive practices in competing for or in executing a contract.

11. The address referred to above is the address for the (i) collection of Bidding Documents;(ii) submission of Bid Documents; and (iii) opening of bids, as stated below:

Ministry of Health and Wellness 2nd Floor, East Block Building Tel: (office hours): 501-822-0992 E-mail:[email protected]

12. The Bidders are requested to submit as part of the bid the “Statement of Ethical Conduct and Fraud and Corruption”. In case of misleading information or non- adherence to the Fraud and Corruption provisions of the Bidding Documents, the Bidder shall be pursued by the GoB. Page 16 AMANDALABelize Friday, June 11, 2021

Land of the Free

Permit me to distract you for a easy in Cancun either — the fight for that what is happening with the moment, our dear readers of this column, the drug market; it seems that here it is crime issue does not escalate. At from so many beautiful issues that are the same. Anyway... the same time, the country has to taking place in Belize. Yes! Samuel Jerry: Yes, but those are the be very rigid with its sanitary Haynes, Belize’s great hero, had decisions that governments have to protocols precisely so that there is prophesied that these things would make, and it’s either they starve and not another outbreak of the virus. happen when he penned the words of start to have problems with the social Tom: Yes, I think that’s why they his poem, “Land of the Free…” — as fabric, forcing people to commit crimes don’t allow the people here to exit, if he knew: the more things change, the and nonsense in order to find money except for a medical emergency. And, more they stay the same. However, let to take home, or the other part is done, the theft is up to date. This is ugly; people the teachers union has decided to take me introduce to you a dialogue between the virus is taken care of. So, it is are organizing who are not criminals but a break to analyze the proceedings and a couple of youths from the “University complicated and it is a decision that need to eat. Prior to the pandemic, there give time to see if their demands are of Life”. governments have to make. But if they were approximately 50% of our people put into practice. Tom: Good morning, Jerry. The news are going to make the decision to take living in poverty. Thereafter, with the Tom: Oh, well, there’s enough time; here is saying that the beds of the on the subject of tourism, it will be Covid-19 more Belizeans became poor. we must also take into account that hospitals in Cancun are full of patients important that they take all possible On top of that, there are those who lost the government still has four and a half with COVID-19. Is it true? precautions, and implement all possible their homes and other valuable things due years left. Jerry: Yes, we are once again with protocols so that it can be safe. Now, to bank loans. In addition, the union of Jerry: You’re right. It may be that plenty of contagious cases. People keep we must remember that a lot of tourists, teachers and public service officers rose by then some kind of strategy may dying. from where they come, are already up demanding the government to do an have been put into practice to satisfy Tom: According to the news, the vaccinated. The people of the United audit of 40 years of corruption. Between the union’s demands. beds in Chetumal are full too. However, States who are already vaccinated no one and the other, there are about 18 Tom: I really don’t think there will Belize opened the borders for tourism longer use mouth covers (COVID-19 thousand personnel whose salary was cut be the changes that the people expect. and only approximately 20% of the masks), as well as people from many by 10%. Meanwhile, the government is The only way would be if they people here are vaccinated. There are parts of Europe. So that part is also giving work to family and friends with implement some adjustments to the those who disagree with the opening important — that as a country they are high salaries, and is not helping those who Constitution where the people have a of the borders because they fear that valued and seen in that sense of saying: are in hunger, but those close to them. more democratic participation in the the virus will re-enter. Also, we cannot “Hey, since they are already vaccinated, Who knows where this is going to end. decision-making of the nation’s affairs. leave; we are incarcerated. Of the we can open the borders.” In fact, those Jerry: That’s the big problem. And In time we will find out, and as the 420,000 inhabitants, 70,000 do not have who should worry are the ones who the socioeconomic problem that the saying goes: “only the people can save a job. Crime has risen; people are are not vaccinated, since the ones pandemic and the bad decisions of the the people.” desperate. Things that have never entering are already protected against government will cause. happened here are already common. the virus and only have to follow the Tom: They are continuing the same [email protected] Reports are that a Superintendent was protocols for the safety of others. It is way of doing business as if nothing is June 6, 2021 killed with his own weapon. Things are not bad, because little by little they have happening. Finca Solana really bad. I know that things are not to activate the economy, precisely so Jerry: Tom, I was just informed that Corozal Town Friday, June 11, 2021 AMANDALABelize Page 17

STRENGTHENING OF TAX ADMINISTRATION PROJECT

REQUEST FOR EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST

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) services (brochures, description of similar assignments specifying start and end Country: Belize dates of assignments, experience in similar conditions, availability of appropriate Project: Strengthening of Tax Administration (STA) skills, etc.). The term “consultant” means a legally-established professional Abstract: Consulting Services – Consulting Firm to Prepare and Implement a consulting firm or an entity that may provide the services. New Audit Model, making use of the wider range examination and risk-based techniques (to include analytic tools for audit). Expression of Interest package should contain:

Loan No.: 4839/OC-BL (i) Document explaining interest, experience, and competence of the consulting Deadline: June 25, 2021, Belize Local Time firm. (ii) Firms experience in the assignment of similar consultancy services during The Government of Belize (GOB) has received financing from the Inter-American the past five years. Description of similar assignments specifying start and Development Bank (IDB) for the execution of a five-year tax modernization end dates of assignments. project entitled “Strengthening of Tax Administration” (BL-L1031). The main (iii) Firms evidence of past jobs. beneficiaries of the Project are: (a) the Government, which will have more (iv) Two references revenues to implement its public policies; (b) taxpayers, who will have more (v) Proof of nationality: Copy of certificate of incorporation and information support and a digital environment to fulfil their tax obligations; and (c) the of shareholders of company specifying the shares owned by each respective population, from the government policies implemented. Through this project, shareholder of the company. the Belize Tax Service Department (BTSD) has procured a Modern Integrated Tax Administration System (the Revenue Management System (RMS)) and is Additional documentation required for National Consultants: presently in the implementation process. This new system will be used in the . management of the Belize Tax Administration (vi) Copy of Certificate of Good Standing from Belize Company Registry (vii) Copy of Certificate of Good Standing from the Social Security Board The BTSD management has identified the need for a modern audit approach (viii) Copy of Certificate of Good Standing from the Belize Tax Service based on risk analysis. The BTSD Strategic Plan states that: Department “BTSD will explore the introduction of a Risk Management Plan (RMP) to (ix) Current Trade License properly respond to the risks identified on a timely basis, to minimize overall compliance burden for both the taxpayers and the tax administration. As an Consultants will be selected in accordance with the procedures set out in the important aspect of the RMP, risk mitigating strategies will be proposed for Inter-American Development Bank: Policies for the Selection and Contracting application against potential and existing risks. The plan will highlight all of Consultants financed by the Inter-American Development Bank (GN-2350- areas of risks including risk-based assessments, risk-based audits, risk-based 15, May 2019 edition) and is open to all eligible consultants as defined in the IDB sector and taxpayer segmentation, compliance risks (registration, filing, policies. reporting and payments) and international risks. Risk mitigation reduces the extent of exposure and ensures that the strategic objectives are achieved.” Consultants may associate with other firms in the form of a joint venture or a sub-consultancy to enhance their qualifications. For the purpose of establishing The consulting services (“the services”) includes the contracting of a consulting the short list, the nationality of a firm is that of the country in which it is legally firm for a period of ten (10) months to Prepare and Implement a New Audit incorporated or constituted and in the case of Joint Venture, the nationality of the Model, making use of the range examination and risk-based techniques (to include firm appointed to represent it. analytic tools for audit). The main activities of the consultancy includes: A Consultant will be selected in accordance with the Selection based on the 1. To assess the status of BTSD taxpayer audit strategies and operations Consultants’ Qualification method set out in the IDB Consultant Policies. The for all tax type. selected consulting firm will be selected based on its experience and competence relevant to the assignment and most appropriate qualifications and references. 2. To review the Audit Division organization and resources, as well as Only the highest ranked consulting firm from the short-listed firms will be the staff skills notified and will be asked to submit a technical and price proposal. 3. To suggest the strategy for centralization/decentralization of the audit 4. To propose a new organization area (if required) Further information can be obtained at the address below during office hours 5. To propose the staff composition by area and by location Monday to Friday 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Expressions of interest must be delivered 6. To propose the different audit programs taking into consideration via direct mail or e-mail at the address indicated below by 4:00 p.m. (Belize local taxpayer segments and different audit locations (central, districts). time) on Friday June 25, 2021. 7. To propose a system of massive audit based on IT verification of returns against risk factors and third-party information. The selected Interested consulting firms are asked to submit their expression of interest via e-mail cases should be resolved very quickly (4 cases a day) as they are to [email protected] marked STAP- Consulting Firm to Prepare based on firm verification. and Implement a New Audit Model in the subject header, or submit on or before 8. To propose modern analytic tools suitable for Belize’s environment 4:00 p.m. (Belize local time) on Friday June 25, 2021 to the following address: by conducting a SWOT analysis to support the audit work. 9. Once the proposal on the modern analytic tool is approved, the Director General consulting firm will procure, implement, and train auditors in its Belize Tax Service Department utilization. Strengthening of Tax Administration Project 10. To conduct Pilot audit with the audit team to plan, execute and report Charles Bartlett Hyde Building on randomly selected taxpayers. Mahogany Street, Belize City Tel: 501-222-5114 The Consulting firm should have a minimum of five (5) years’ experience in Tax Administration Taxpayer Audit and Risk Analysis. As well as a strong expertise For clarifications kindly contact: in the use of modern analytic tools. The Consulting firm should prove its expertise in Tax Administration audit, risk analysis and Business Strategy (supporting Project Coordinator business and organization goals). Project Executing Unit The Ministry of Finance now invites eligible consulting firms (“Consultants”) to Strengthening of Tax Administration Project indicate their interest in providing the services. Interested eligible Consultants Charles Bartlett Hyde Building must submit an Expression of Interest providing information demonstrating that Mahogany Street, Belize City they have the required qualifications and relevant experience to perform the Tel: 501-222-5114/E-mail: [email protected] Page 18 AMANDALABelize Friday, June 11, 2021 World Environment Day 2021

by Kory Leslie world, for the benefit of people and (freelance writer) nature.” The aim is to stop the degradation PAKISTAN, South Asia, of all the world’s ecosystems and June 5, 2021 instead begin with the rehabilitation World Environment Day and restoration of those systems. The is being observed this year UN Decade on Ecosystem under the theme, Restoration (2021-2030) is set to “Ecosystem Restoration”, conclude on the date that is the and events in recognition of deadline for the achievement of the the day’s theme were UN’s Sustainable Development scheduled to take place in Goals. Scientists have claimed that Pakistan. The events and this timeline is the last window of activities, which were held opportunity to prevent catastrophic virtually, also provided the climate change. backdrop for the The project will be led by the introduction of the UN United Nations Environment Decade on Ecosystem Programme (UNEP) and the Food Restoration (2021-2030), a and Agriculture Organization of the “rallying call for the United Nations (FAO) with the aim protection and revival of of “building a strong, broad-based ecosystems all around the global movement to ramp up restoration and put the world on track for a sustainable future.” In preparation to begin the thousands of initiatives on the ground that they have planned, the UNEP Europe Office has designed a survey for youth which is available in twenty-two languages and targets mainly European and Central Asian destinations to get an understanding of their knowledge of, and expectations for, ecosystem restoration. Additionally, the UNEP has also published and shared an Ecosystem Restoration Playbook on the UN’s website. The twenty-page book, with its subtitle being “a practical guide to healing the planet,” outlines how the various types of ecosystems can be restored and advises individuals on how to join in on the efforts for restoration. To further drive the message home, the UN also posted a variety of sobering facts regarding the dwindling of resources and their effects on the world and all its inhabitants. The UN indicates on is website that over 4.7 million hectares of forests are lost annually; nearly 80% of the world’s wastewater is discharged in our oceans and rivers without treatment; PUBLIC AUCTION SALE: 87% of wetlands have been lost Matron Roberts Street, King’s Park, Belize City, Belize globally in the last three hundred years; as much as 50% of the world’s coral BY ORDER of the Estate of Victoria Olegaria Westby, Licensed Auctioneer Fitzgerald A. Joseph will sell the reefs have been lost with a projected following property on Tuesday, 15thJune, 2021 at 2:30 p.m.Please note that Social Distancing Protocol 90% expected to be lost by 2050; and will be in full effect and the wearing of mask will be mandatory. global greenhouse gas emissions have risen for three consecutive years, REGISTRATION SECTION BLOCK PARCEL Fort George/Pickstock 45 248 putting the planet on pace for catastrophic climate change. World Environment Day was first celebrated in 1974 and has “developed as a platform to raise awareness on the problems facing our environment such as air pollution, plastic pollution, illegal wildlife trade, sustainable consumption, sea- level increase, and food security, among others.” Being a Two storey concrete building having two bedrooms two baths, corridor, living room, dining room, kitchen on the ground floor and two bedrooms, two baths, living room, dining room, corridor, laundry room, office, lobby area, kitchen and verandah on the upper floor situated on Matron Roberts Street, King’s Park, Belize City, Belize together with a fully fenced yard and a lot containing 416.67 square yards. AMANDALA

TERMS: STRICTLY CASH is cream FITZGERALD JOSEPH TELEPHONE: 601-2039 Visit us at Email: [email protected] www.amandala.com.bz Friday, June 11, 2021 AMANDALABelize Page 19 The horror of the Congo under the Belgians

The beginnings of this story lie far employee of a Liverpool shipping line. for years without a second thought, back in time, and its reverberations still A subsidiary of the company has the Morel begins to notice things that unsettle sound today. But for me, a central monopoly on all transport of cargo to him. At the docks of the big port of incandescent moment, one that and from the Congo Free State, as it is Antwerp he sees his company’s ships Examples illuminates long decades before and then called, the huge territory in central arriving filled to the hatch covers with after, is a young man’s flash of moral Africa that is the world’s only colony valuable cargoes of rubber and ivory. from El recognition. claimed by one man. That man is King But when they cast off their hawsers and The year is 1897 or 1898. Try to Leopold II of Belgium, a ruler much steam back to the Congo, while military Salvador imagine him, briskly stepping off a admired throughout Europe as a bands play on the pier and eager young cross-Channel steamer, a forceful, burly “philanthropic” monarch. He has men in uniform line the ships’ rails, what Dear Mr. Editor, man, in his mid-twenties, with a welcomed Christian missionaries to his they carry is mostly army officers, Please continue the good work of handlebar mustache. He is confident new colony; his troops, it is said, have firearms, and ammunition. There is no keeping our nation informed in an and well-spoken, but his British speech fought and defeated local slave-traders trade going on here. Little or nothing is important and factual manner. I ask is without the polish of Eton or Oxford. who preyed on the population, and for being exchanged for the rubber and that you kindly publish this letter, He is well-dressed, but the clothes are more than a decade European ivory. As Morel watches these riches not to step on anyone’s toes, but to not from Bond Street. With an ailing newspapers have praised him for streaming to Europe with almost no provide some insight as to how as mother and a wife and growing family investing his personal fortune in public goods being sent to Africa to pay for a nation we could do better or to support, he is not the sort of person works to benefit the Africans. them, he realizes that there is only one similar to El Salvador. likely to get caught up in an idealistic Because Morel speaks fluent French, explanation for their source: slave labor. I humbly ask our political leaders cause. His ideas are thoroughly his company sends him to Belgium every in government to watch the news or conventional. He looks -- and is — few weeks to supervise the loading and - pgs. 1, 2 of the Introduction to go to YouTube and see all that the every inch the sober, respectable unloading of ships on the Congo run. KING LEOPOLD’S GHOST, by Salvadoran president, a young man businessman. Although the officials he works with Adam Hochschild, Houghton Mifflin, of Palestinian descent, Najib Edmund Dene Morel is a trusted have been handling the shipping traffic 1998. Bukele, is accomplishing for his country. He has only been in power for 2 years and, in a country like El Salvador with millions of people in its population, he has managed to accomplish things never before done in his country. Mr. Bukele, among other accomplishments, has managed to drastically lower the crime rate, has built a COVID-19 hospital which is considered one of the best in the region, has managed to control the propagation of the COVID-19 virus, has done various infrastructural projects around his country, and has created employment and housing for the poor. My point, Belizeans, is why can’t we, with a much smaller country and even smaller population, do the same things that El Salvador is doing, in a time of a global pandemic? Why can’t we control the COVID-19 rate? Why can’t we build houses for the poor? Why can’t we charge, convict and jail corrupt politicians who steal the nation’s money while simultaneously filling their pockets? My question is, do my Belizeans lack initiative and fortitude to do the right thing? Why can’t we ask the neighboring countries for assistance, not necessarily for money, but for better medication/ healthcare, crime control tips, training and building material for building schools/hospitals/houses, just to name a few? What is our problem? I know for a fact that where there is a will there is a way! A past politician once told me that we (Belizeans) are not a country of beggars, and my reply was that there is nothing wrong with begging the world as long as it’s not for the sole self-gain of politicians but for the betterment of the Belizean people. Thank you all. I hope our leader reads this letter and takes some similar action and tries to emulate the ways of El Salvador, which we are so close to.

Sincerely, Mario Lopez Page 20 AMANDALABelize Friday, June 11, 2021 Friday, June 11, 2021 AMANDALABelize Page 21

in regards to specifying a way fear. They can pass any law they wish forward for GOB to do such. They to and then not fund an office or have been fixated on the underfund the office for implementation of UNCAC in implementation of those laws. Look Belize. In 2015 the BNTU forced Rt. at Hon. Julius Espat’s frustration when Hon. Dean Barrow, then PM of the government, under Rt. Hon. Dean Belize, to sign UNCAC, and the then Barrow, refused to fund the Integrity PM acquiesced. Teachers then, under office headed in vain by then Luke Palacio’s presidency, may have opposition representative Hon. Julius Teachers one-upped by GOB believed that action was a victory and Espat who wanted desperately to would result in better hold UDP Ministers to account for BUT, teachers, what’s your end game? government. Still, here we are 7 years their finances. He never made it to later, and not a thing has changed in first base — Hon. Julius Espat, that Dear Editor, passed in little time. Secondly, that terms of good governance. Yet the is. As GOB begins to withhold or demand from the union is very broad teachers continue to now be fixated The problem is not that we don’t dock the pay of striking teachers, and thus, in this person’s eyes, a poor on implementing UNCAC. They may have adequate anti-corruption laws, hitting the teachers in the pocket is end game. misunderstand UNCAC’s function. but rather we don’t implement the sure to be an effective strategy for The Government seems to have the The function of the UNCAC is to laws we do have. The result is exactly the Government of Belize, headed by upper hand, in that all of us know we be a guide to principles. The United what we continue to see: corruption the Hon. John Briceño. must tighten our belts under the Nations Convention against and, even worse, impunity. When The teachers have been trying to COVID economy. The society seems Corruption, UNCAC, only shows a white-collar criminals are given soften the blow of the 10% pay cut to actually agree with GOB on that path to dealing with impunity from investigation and from by trying to get GOB to make point. corruption. Nigeria signed UNCAC prosecution, their anti-good- commitments to better The BNTU has been vague at best more than 25 years ago, and they are governance behavior will not cease. governance. GOB has the advantage, with their positions to hold GOB to still dealing with gross Corruption, unpunished, leads to as making a commitment is easy, and making a promise for better corruption. So, by passing laws, Hon. legislation can be quickly written and governance while offering very little Briceño’s government has nothing to Please turn to„Page 25

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: Extended to Monday, June 21, 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. Page 22 AMANDALABelize Friday, June 11, 2021

Call for proposals: Consultancy services for research and policy design Belize National Child Labour Policy

Purpose by all candidates). The International Labour Organization (ILO) Office for the Caribbean, in collaboration with the Ministry of Labour, Local Government and Rural Development of Belize, and Annex I: Terms of Reference the United Nations Children Fund (UNICEF) is launching a call for proposals from interested professionals to conduct background research and draft the forthcoming Technical Assistance for the development of a National Child national child labour policy. The full Terms of Reference for the undertaking are presented in Annex I. Labour Policy for Belize

Submission of proposals and selection process 1. Background Proposals must be submitted to the ILO by 7 July 2021, midnight ECT via email In 1990, Belize joined global counterparts in ratifying the UN Convention on the Rights address: [email protected] indicating in the subject field “Belize Child Labour Policy”. of the Child, which provides a broad framework of protections for children. In March 2000, Belize ratified ILO Conventions on Minimum Age (for entry into work), C138,and Each proposal should consist of: the Worst Forms of Child Labour, C182, signalling its commitment to take immediate 1. A short cover letter (2 pages maximum) with exact references to the consultant’s and effective measures to secure the prohibition and elimination of the worst forms experience with similar undertakings specifying -in detail – (i) experience with of child labour as a matter of urgency. Since then Belize also became a signatory to child labour policies, action plans or similar documents; (ii) experience with drafting the UN CRC Optional Protocol on Armed Conflict, UN CRC Optional Protocol on the other policy documents; (iii) knowledge of the Belizean child labour context; and Sale of Children, Child Prostitution and Child Pornography and Palermo Protocol on (iv)knowledge of the Belizean socio economic context. Trafficking in Persons.

2. Relevant samples of work and/or hyperlinks to published material. Based on the above-mentioned international commitments, a National Child Labour Policy for Belize was developed in 2009. The Policy, however, was not fully 3. Tentative calendar for carrying out the various phases of the process(see section implemented and consequently, many of the child labour issues that existed then, 3, paras i-iv of the Terms of Reference).With regards to the calendar of activities, and the circumstances that gave rise to them, persist today. please note: In the last four years (2015 onward), based on USDOS and USDOL reports, Belize has „ The consultant is expected to start working during the month of July 2021 achieved a moderate advancement in its efforts to eliminate the worst forms of child and conclude the exercise at latest, by November 2021. labour. These gains were a result of several programmes and initiatives, undertaken „ Due to the COVID-19 situation, online interviews/consultations will be with the technical and financial support and collaboration of local and international the preferred and recommended way forwardfor the initial consultations. agencies. Among them, one should mention: At the same time,some interviews, notably those with stakeholders in remote areas and/or weak access to internet connection, will have to „ The establishment of a National Child Labour Committee; take place in person consistently with national protocol, health regulations „ The Project Country Level Engagement and Assistance to Reduce Child Labour and social distancing requirements. The ILO will not be responsible for Project (CLEAR II Project); any health risk that may arise. „ A legislative review of existing child labour laws and the preparation of „ The full interview schedule and modality will be jointly determined after recommendations for amendments to the Labour Act and several other selection of the candidates in line with the stakeholders’ availability, health associated pieces of legislation which address child labour and child activity; situation/regulation and available resources. and „ The necessary will be put in place to ensure the final consultation(s) aimed „ The establishment of a National Child Labour Focal Point Person/ Desk at at validating the draft policy document will be conducted in person. the Department of Labour.

4. A detailed outline of the financial requirement reflecting the calendar sub 3 and Notwithstanding those progress, children in Belize continue to be victims of child a breakdown of the remunerationfor each set of activities (see section 3, i-iv of labour, including, the worst forms of child labour. In the Belize 2013 Report of the the Terms of Reference). The total amount available is USD14,000. Please note: National Child Activity Survey, the ILO and the Statistical Institute of Belize, included the following conclusions and recommendations: „ there will be no separate provisions for travel between/to Belmopan or Belize City. A. Prevalence of Children’s Employment (extract): „ Some travel within the country will be required(see point 3 above and „ “The children employment rate has declined by about a half since 2001, list of stakeholders in the Terms of Reference). In those cases: however, the employment rate for boys continue to be twice that of „ The consultant is expected to organize his/her own travel. girls.” „ Reimbursement of travel expenses will be provided. Such B. Characteristics of Working Children (extracts): reimbursement will -in principle- cover the cost of public „ “The Agriculture and Related Activities Industry was the largest employer transportation (bus) andif needed, hotel rate as per UN of children, especially boys, while the Tourism and Community, Social allowance calendar. N.B. the exact calendar of travel will be an and Personal Services Industries was by far, the biggest employer of girls.” object of consultation and further discussion. „ “Boys were more likely than girls and urban children were more likely „ For the purpose of answering this call for proposals, the cost than rural children to work long hours (in excess of 45 hours).” for internal travel shall not be included in the outline of the „ “A significant number of children worked at night and this was much financial requirements. more the case for girls than for boys.” „ The sum requested should not exceed USD14,000. Any „ “It follows, therefore, that the main reasons a significant portion of proposal which will require a lower amount will be given children worked were the need to supplement the household income, additional scoring. or to purchase things for themselves.” „ Should an international consultant wish to apply within C. Educational Characteristics (extracts): thepresented financial boundary, their proposal will be „ “The great majority of working children were not attending school, and considered. working boys were more likely than working girls to be out of school. The situation has worsened since 2001.” 5. Curriculum vitae and current affiliation of relevant consultants. „ “The main reasons children were not attending school were lack of funds and lack of interest, and to a lesser extent their involvement in 6. Incomplete proposals will not be considered. employment. Lack of funds was a bigger issue for children 14 years and older as opposed to younger children, suggesting that some parents/ Eligibility guardians did not see secondary schooling as important.” The present call for proposals is open to all individuals ages 18 and above. Institutions D. Child Labour (extracts) as such may also apply. „ “A greater proportion of working children are now involved in child labour than in 2001, and boys continue to comprise the vast majority of child Evaluation Criteria labourers.” Proposals will be evaluated according to the following criteria (100 points maximum): „ “Most child labourers were engaged in hazardous work, thus the rates for hazardous work were similar to the child labour rates.” „ 45 points: Previous relevant experience with child labour policy development „ E. Main Determinants of Employment (extracts): and/or policy development and coherence and consistency in the proposed „ “Children who were not attending school were many times more likely calendar for performing the activities than their in-school counterparts to be involved in economic activities.” „ 25 points: Knowledge of the socio economic context of Belize and working „ “Sex was a very strong determinant of employment, as boys were far experience in the country. more likely than girls to be employed.” „ 20 points: Qualifications of the consultants. „ 10 points: Financial requirements (any amount <14,000 USD will be awarded Having taken stock of the situation, the Ministry of Labour, Local Government and points reflecting the distribution of the financial requirements submitted Rural Development, has decided to address this urgent issue commencing with the Friday, June 11, 2021 AMANDALABelize Page 23

development of a comprehensive policy and strategy to address the prevention and realization of the policy goals over a given period including key elimination of child labour. indicators of performance for individual outputs and policy objectives. 2. Objectives of the consultancy The objective of the consultancy is to provide technical expertise for the research, 4. Reporting relationship analysis and preparation of key recommendations and documentation required for a The ILO Caribbean Office will conclude and manage the contract arrangements for this National Child Labour Policy (NCLP) for Belize. The envisaged policy document is to be consultancy and will carry out direct supervision of the consultant’s work in centred on the following major interlinked collaboration with the responsibility of the Ministry of Labour, Local Government and Rural Development, through the Chief Executive Officer (CEO), or the CEO’s designate. Policy objectives: Review and approval of all deliverables to be produced will be done by a supervisory i. prevention of child labour; group comprised of: ii. withdrawal and rehabilitation of victims of child labour; „ Representatives of the Ministry of Labour, Local Government and Rural iii. reintegration of former child labourers into school or non-hazardous work; Development and „ Representatives of ILO iv. child labour awareness and advocacy. „ Representatives of UNICEF „ Representatives of the National Child Labour Committee 3. Scope of work / deliverables: „ Representative of the National Committee for Families and Children The consultant work will be articulated along the following activities: „ Representatives from youth and young adults’ organizations

(i) Production of an updated work plan/ schedule: The selected consultant 5. Qualifications and competencies will prepare and submit for the agreement of the Parties, an updated work Candidates seeking to undertake this consultancy should possess the following: plan (schedule of tasks and detailed activities), based on the agreed date of commencement of the consultancy. The work plan will include: i. Post graduate degree in any of Social Sciences or Law; a) Detailed list of references for the situation analysis report (see below): i. Minimum of five years related experience; „ Relevant literature and available data sources. iii. Expert knowledge of child labour, legal framework and applicable legislation; „ Available indicators. iv. Practical knowledge of government processes; „ Detailed list of relevant policies and legislation i. Ability to conduct qualitative and quantitative research; „ Overview of key stakeholders vi. Strong computer skills; b) Timeline for completion of the exercise and relevant deliverables. vii. Fluent in reading, writing and speaking English (Spanish will be an advantage); c) Tentative list of stakeholders to be consulted (individual interviews, viii. Excellent communication and writing skills with experience in drafting policies; see for non-exhaustive reference point iii below and Annex I), location ix. Ability to work as a team and independently; and modality to conduct interviews. x. Sensitivity and adaptability as it relates to culture, gender, religion, ethnicity, morals and age; (ii) Production of Situational Analysis report: The consultant will prepare this xi. Sound judgement, strategic thinking and ability to manage competing project document based on a thorough desk review of the key documentation activities; provided by the Parties (see list at Annex A), national administrative records xii. Strong organizational skills; and any other relevant materials obtained through independent research xiii. Ability to produce high quality outputs within time and within budget; using quantitative and qualitative methodologies. The report will consist xiv. Previous work experience in Belize and adaptation of the Belizean culture; of four interlinked sections: and a) An updated overview of the statistical information available on child xv. Previous experience in the Caribbean will be considered an asset. labour in Belize; b) the major social, economic and other risk/vulnerability factors for child 10. Consultancy fee labour, including access to education, poverty, social norms and any The total cost for this consultancy shall not exceed USD$14,000. The schedule for other relevant dimension; disbursement of payments will be finalized in accordance with rules of the ILO. c) existing/applicable legislation or policies; and d) mapping of key institutions/ actors/stakeholders and relevant past or ANNEX II current interventions aligned to the aforementioned policy objectives. List of key documentation and National Stakeholders As a key input for consultations with stakeholders, the situational analysis to be consulted report will also identify any significant gaps/challenges and opportunities/ Key Documentation good practices on child labour prevention/eradication which could become The Consultant will be provided with access to/copies of the following documents for the object of the proposed policy/ strategy. review/consideration in the execution of the tasks. This is not intended to be an exhaustive list: (iii) Consultation with stakeholders: The consultant, in coordination with the „ Belize 2013 Report of The National Child Activity Survey, The Statistical Institute designated Ministry officials and representatives of UNICEF and ILO, will of Belize; conduct consultations with national stakeholders. Such consultations will „ 2015 Multiple Indicators Cluster Summary Survey), UNICEF; be sequential and cope with two broad themes: „ Belize Social Protection Expenditure and Performance Review – prepared by a) A first set of consultations (individual interviews), will aim at (1) UNICEF and ILO January 2020; validating the information in the situational analysis; and (2) obtaining „ World Bank Job Diagnostics 2019 Report; information and recommendations of stakeholders on the proposed „ World Bank Mapping of Active Labour Market Programs 2019 Reports; contents of the national policy. The latter will specifically include: priority „ Belize’s Growth and Sustainability Development Strategy; areas for the policy, main outputs to be included in the policy and „ The Children’s Agenda and Belize Child Labour Report – prepared by the United potential roles of the individual stakeholders. States Department of Labour; and As documentation of the consultations, the consultant will prepare: „ Belize Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey, 2011 and 2015-2016 report (if helpful „ Short summary reports of the various consultations; access to microdata can be discussed). „ Updated situational analysis report incorporating feedback and recommendations of the stakeholders; and National stakeholders „ A draft policy paper. The consultancy will take on a participatory and collaborative approach and meetings, interviews and consultations with the following stakeholders are anticipated. In situ b) A single event-validation workshop aimed at discussing the draft child labour interviews are expected (at least) with respect to the stakeholders marked with an policy and retrieve inputs of national stakeholders on the draft and its asterisk. components. i. Labour Department; ii. National Committee for Families and Children; (iv) Drafting of a White Paper- National Child LabourPolicy: In keeping with iii. Ministry of Education; the requirements of the national processes for formalization of policies, iv. Ministry of Health; the consultant will draft the working document or white paper setting out v. Youth for the Future; the proposed policy. This working document will be prepared in the format vi. Department of Human Development; required by the Ministry of Labour, Local Government and Rural vii. Statistic Institute of Belize; Development for submissions to Cabinet for consideration and approval. viii. Immigration Department; The contents of the white paper will include: ix. Attorney General’s Ministry; a) Key definitions and concepts on child labour; x. National Trade Union Congress of Belize; b) Goals/ objectives of a National Policy on Child Labour; xi. Belize Chamber of Commerce and Industry; c) Situation analysis as described in para (i) above (inclusive of mapping xii. Belize Citrus Industry; of institutions/ actors and existing programmes aligned to policy xiii. Belize Sugar Cane Farmers Association; objectives); xiv. Belize Tourism Industry Association; d) Strategy recommendations (based on consultant’s expertise and xv. The National Garifuna Council; consultations with stakeholders) for achievement of the policy xvi. The Mennonite Communities including Shipyard*, Spanish Lookout*,Little objectives in the shape of outcomes to be achieved; Belize*, Indian Creek* e) Outline of theoperational framework for implementation of xvii. The Yucatec Maya*, The Northern Maya Association of Belize*, Maya strategic plan, identifying the main interventions (outputs), Leaders Alliance (Southern Belize)* justifications/rationales about how those outputs will contribute xviii. Local Government and Rural Development; to the policy objectives (theory of change), constraints to xix. The Police Department; implementation and risk mitigation measures, tentative timelines xx. Selected NGO’s and Churches; and proposed implementing actors for each outputs and tentative xxi. Labour Advisory Board; budget estimates. The latter will be discussed during the second set xxii. Parents; of consultations (validation workshop). xxiii. Children; and f) Monitoring and Evaluation Framework to assess progress towards xxiv. Representatives from Corozal* and Free Zone area* Page 24 AMANDALABelize Friday, June 11, 2021

“Un idiota es un idiota. Dos por otro lado, representó un intento Presidente del Tribunal Supremo ministros del gabinete (excepto el idiotas son dos idiotas. Diez mil extraordinario y sin precedentes por cuando el juez Benjamin le ordenó ausente Briceño) se enfrentaron al idiotas son un partido político”. parte de un elemento del Gabinete investigar el asunto. El entonces primer ministro Musa en la mañana en el PUP para enderezar su barco Comisario de Policía no lo hizo, del jueves 12 de agosto de 2004. — Franz Kafka (1883-1924) financiero de estado. En ese ignoró al Presidente del Tribunal No hay ningún lugar al que se pueda momento, el PUP tenía 54 años, Supremo, y la única conclusión a ir en Belize para investigar todos “CONFRONTACIÓN DEL Belize había sido independiente la que pudimos llegar en las calles los detalles intrapartidistas de lo GABINETE TERMINA EN durante 23 años y el PUP tenía 26 fue que el ComPol estaba siendo que sucedió desde ese jueves hasta COMPROMISO”, artículo titular de los 31 escaños en la Cámara de apoyado por nuestro Primer el siguiente lunes, cuando las cosas de Adele Ramos en AMANDALA Representantes. El PUP había Ministro en ese momento, el Muy amenazaban con volverse violentas. No. 1887, del domingo 15 de ganado una victoria aplastante (28- Honorable Dean Barrow. El (Después de escribir la oración agosto de 2004 3) sobre el UDP del Dr. Manuel ejecutivo estaba dominando al anterior, entré en los archivos de Esquivel en agosto de 1998 y luego poder judicial, o eso parecía. Amandala y me di cuenta de que En mi columna de mediados de ganó a lo grande nuevamente, sobre La realidad era que el UDP, que Adele Ramos estaba en su apogeo semana, dije que ni el Partido Unido el UDP de Dean Barrow, en marzo había ganado abrumadoramente en en esos días y escribió los relevantes del Pueblo (PUP) ni el Partido de 2003. febrero de 2008, solo tenía un titulares sobre G-7. Su material Demócrata Unido (UDP en inglés), Hay expertos en la Constitución margen de 17-14 sobre el PUP en pasará a la historia). los dos principales partidos de Belize y en el sistema de 2013, después de las elecciones Sin embargo, les ofreceré esta políticos de Belize, quieren hablar gobierno en nuestra democracia generales de 2012. De modo que, perspectiva personal. El sábado por sobre el episodio del G-7 en agosto parlamentaria a quienes respeto, si el UDP hubiera perdido el escaño la tarde de ese fin de semana, el de 2004. No hace falta decir que como el senador Henry Gordon. No de Penner en Cayo luego de una Primer Ministro Musa visitó mi los dos partidos políticos tienen poseo tal experiencia, por lo que investigación policial, su margen casa en Seashore Drive de camino diferentes razones para no querer todo lo que ofrezco en mi columna, habría sido de un mínimo de 16 a a la Fiesta de San Joaquín en discutir el episodio histórico. de vez en cuando, es una opinión 15. Corozal. La relación entre el Sr. El UDP no quiere discutir el cuidadosamente considerada. El Se supone que Barrow no estaba Musa y el caudillo del Norte, el asunto del G-7, porque el UDP UDP debería haber tenido un dispuesto a correr el riesgo de Honorable Florencio Marin, Sr. (El nunca ha demostrado la capacidad, momento G-7, digo, cuando el perder el poder. Todos los beliceños Honorable), había estado tenso en sus 48 años de historia, de escándalo del pasaporte Elvin podemos ver que los políticos y desde que el Sr. Musa derrotó al Sr. intentar sanearse ante la Penner/Ciudadano Kim estalló a compinches del UDP hicieron muy, Marín en una convención de abrumadora evidencia de fines de 2013, y el entonces muy bien durante los tres mandatos liderazgo para el PUP en 1996 para irregularidades financieras. El G-7, Comisario de Policía desafió al del Sr. Barrow, de 2008 a 2020. El suceder al Muy Honorable George Sr. Barrow gobernó como un Price. (Una vez más, el Sr. Marin monarca absoluto dentro del UDP, había liderado un movimiento al porque permitió que sus secuaces que a veces se le refiere como “15 fueran felices, que hicieran lo que de mayo”, que, tras las elecciones sea que los beneficiara. Mi del Consejo Municipal de 1994 en sentimiento personal es que el las que el PUP había sido reinado de Barrow fue corrupto, malamente derrotado por el UDP, pero nunca hubo ni siquiera el estaba en desacuerdo con el PUP indicio de un desafío a esa convencional, en el que Musa, corrupción desde adentro. Ralph Fonseca y Glenn Godfrey La evidencia está ahí — surgió habían aumentado su poder. El en las investigaciones de la Junta alboroto de 1994 se resolvió en una de Seguridad Social (SSB en inglés) convención nacional del PUP más y la Corporación Financiera de tarde ese año.) Pero ese fin de Desarrollo (DFC en inglés) después semana del G-7, todo indica que del G-7 — de que hubo corrupción Musa y Marin llegaron a un acuerdo dentro de la administración de Said cuando Said fue a San Joaquín. Musa de 1998 a 2008. Hay Briceño fue removido del liderazgo personalidades poderosas del PUP del Caucus Norte y reemplazado por que todavía desprecian seriamente Dave Burgos. Y ya para el lunes 16 lo que hizo el G-7, porque el intento de agosto por la mañana, la retórica del G-7 de controlar a Ralph proveniente del Caucus del Norte Fonseca y Glenn Godfrey llevó a la se había vuelto casi violenta en su división dentro del PUP, y a su hostilidad hacia el G-7 y su apoyo derrota en las elecciones generales a la administración de Musa. de 2008. (Vean la cita de Franz Había personas en el G-7, Kafka en la parte superior de la específicamente Eamon Courtenay página). Sin embargo, hasta que el y Godfrey Smith, que deben ser UDP pueda encontrar dentro de sí considerados representantes de los mismo abordar los delitos graves intereses de Lord Michael Ashcroft. dentro de su propio partido, el PUP En otras palabras, pueden haber sido pasará a la historia de Belize como más perros guardianes que pit bulls. el único de los dos partidos en Servulo Baeza era partidario de intentar la corrección de la John Briceño. corrupción. Cordel Hyde y Mark Espat eran Los miembros del G-7 eran John cuñados. Briceño, entonces viceprimer Joe Coye no pudo respaldar a ministro (quien estuvo en Chicago Espat y Hyde cuando el primer la mayor parte de los cuatro días de ministro Musa contraatacó el 28 de crisis); Joe Coye; Cordel Hyde; diciembre de 2004, despidiendo a Mark Espat; Servulo Baeza; Eamon Courtenay; y Godfrey Smith. Estos Vea página „ 25 Friday, June 11, 2021 AMANDALABelize Page 25 From the Publisher en Español Institution: Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) Country: Belize Continua de página 25 Project: Solid Waste Management Project II (SWMPII) „ Sector: Waste Management Mark Espat del gabinete. Así fue que Abstract: Waste Management Technician for Solid Waste Management Project II Loan No.: 3684/OC-BL Coye cumplió su mandato como Deadline: June 25, 2021 ministro del gabinete hasta que perdió su escaño de Caribbean The Government of Belize (GOB) has received financing from the Inter- American Development Bank (IDB), towards the Shores en las elecciones generales cost of the Solid Waste Management Project II and intends to apply part of the proceeds for a Waste Management de febrero de 2008. Technician. Creo que he hablado lo suficiente del episodio del G-7 como para The Objective of the consultancy is to complement the Solid Waste Management Authority’s staff during project execution. darles una idea de la situación en la The Belize Solid Waste Management Authority, the Executing Agency, now invites interested eligible individual consultant que se encontraron los profesores to submit Expressions of Interest indicating qualification and experience required to provide these consultancy services y los funcionarios públicos listed below. recientemente. Los dos partidos políticos, a juzgar por el estado de A) SCOPE OF SERVICE The responsibilities of the Waste Management Technician include, but are not limited to: las finanzas públicas de Belize, son (a) Overseeing the infrastructure works component of the Solid Waste Management Project II on behalf of BSWaMA; torcidos y corruptos. Claramente, • Conduct field supervision of the infrastructure works (at the Mile 24 Regional Landfill, and any repair and existe un problema sistémico que maintenance work at the transfer stations. ha llevado a Belize al precipicio (b) Review and interpret architectural and engineering drawings, specifications and building codes, environmental financiero en el que nos codes and the ECP (Environmental Compliance Plan) to ensure that all work is done in accordance with acceptable encontramos ahora. standards, and in accordance with the approved plans and specifications; Cabe señalar, para que conste, que (c) attend site meetings related to construction and scheduling of the works, prepare and submit timely reports on these meetings to the Project Director. los dos líderes de más alto rango (d) Monitoring the progress of works preparing and submitting detailed weekly construction progress reports and de la nueva administración del PUP, other reports to the WME. John Briceño y Cordel Hyde, fueron (e) Reporting immediately to the WME any engineering/construction incidents, problems or defects that have arisen Ministros G-7 del Gabinete en on the work site. agosto de 2004. (f) Monitor Design and Construction Supervision Consultants’ staff to ensure that construction works are supervised in accordance with their terms of reference and construction norms. (g) In conjunction with Solid Waste Technician monitor and verify fuel consumption of pumps, generator against replenishing fuel. Teachers one- (h) Review of operations claims in respect of the operations of the Transfer Stations and the Mile 24 Regional Sanitary Landfill. • Reconcile loader hours, trips per trucks from transfer stations, number of barge trips, bulldozer, excavator upped by GOB and dump truck hours worked at the landfill. • Cross check weighbridge tickets against control logs Continued from Page 21 • Review contractors claims for payments against data reported above. „ • Generate statistical reports on the operations and efficiencies. impunity. Impunity is encouragement (i) Supervision and follow up on the maintenance/repairs to the Mile 24 Regional Sanitary Landfill and all transfer to continue corruption. The unions can stations. turn the tide on GOB by asking for an (j) General supervision at the landfill and transfer station sites once presents at the facilities. Any anomalies detected independent office, through an are to be reported to the WME. international treaty with either the UN (k) In conjunction with Solid Waste Technician monitor the amount of any leachate removed from the landfill cell and or the OAS, to be established in monitor the leachate being treated and discharged from the treatment ponds at the Mile 24 Landfill facility. Verify and compile logs that are to be submitted from landfill Manager. Belize. This, in this writer’s opinion, (l) Attend and participate in public meeting as the need arises, there may be a need to give presentations or answer will be supported by the masses — question on the landfill works. participating in and reporting on formal community participation in implementation thus placing the political pressure on of the Project, including discussions at public meetings. the GOB to clean up their act. This (m) Develop a professional working relationship with operations personnel particularly the Landfill Manager, Logistics is the endgame we should all be Manager, Health & Safety Coordinator and the site supervisors. seeking. Accountability for white- (n) Any other related duties which may be assigned by the Project Director and by the WME in consultation with the collar crimes is possible through an Director. internationally funded office in B) QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE Belize, usually headed by an The Waste Management Technician shall possess a minimum of an Associates Degree in Building and Civil Engineering or international person and staffed by related technical field. He/She shall have at least three (3) years demonstrated experience in earthworks and/ or construction locals. Such an office would not rely supervision or at least three (3) years of experience in supervision of industrial type buildings. Demonstrated experience in on the local police, who can also be solid waste management, quantity surveying, construction management/scheduling and AUTOCAD would be an asset. investigated, for Fluency in English is required. investigations. Instead, they hire their own investigators who are not paid The Ministry of Natural Resources, Petroleum and Mining now invites eligible individual consultants to indicate their by Government, but with international interest in providing the Services. Interested individual Consultants must provide information demonstrating that they have the required qualification and relevant experience to perform the Services. funding. Same holds true with prosecutors, as such an office could Consultants will be selected in accordance with the procedures set out in the Inter-American Development Bank: Policies be staffed by independent for the Selection and Contracting of Consultants financed by the Inter-American Development Bank - GN-2350-15, and prosecutors. Independent is open to all eligible candidates as defined in the policies. investigations, independent prosecutors to combat white-collar The individual consultant will be selected in accordance with the Selection of Individual Consultants method set out in the crimes. This office doesn’t have to Consultants Policies. be restricted to Government officials Further information can be obtained at the email address below during office hours: Monday to Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 but also business leaders and NGO p.m. local time. leaders and also the law enforcement and military officials. Expressions of interest must be emailed (one (1) complete PDF file) to the address below by 4:30 p.m. on Friday, June 25, In closing let’s urge the BNTU and 2021. all unions to re-strategize their end game. Make your protest result in Solid Waste Management Authority palpable change, unions. Right now, Attn: Mrs. Melanie Gladden, Procurement Officer on your current trajectory, it’s only 3013 Bougainvillea Street, Orchid Garden Area rabble-rousing. You are being rebels City of Belmopan, Belize, C.A. Tel: (501) 802 1527 without a true cause. Best to all of you. PO Box 285 E-mail: [email protected] Joseph Guerrero Page 26 AMANDALABelize Friday, June 11, 2021

Government of Belize Institution: Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) Belize Social Investment Fund (BNTF9) Country: Belize Project: Solid Waste Management Project II (SWMPII) SUPPLY AND DELIVERY OF DIGITAL DUPLICATORS AND ACCESSORIES Sector: Waste Management FOR BNTF9 SCHOOLS NATIONWIDE, BELIZE (BNTF9) Abstract: Individual Consulting Service to conduct activities (design, preparation of bid documents and construction supervision) INVITATION TO BID pertaining to the restoration and remediation of the main berm at the Mile 24 Regional Sanitary Landfill. The Government of Belize (GOB) has received financing from the Caribbean Loan No.: 3684/OC-BL Development Bank (CDB) in an amount equivalent to USD5.4mn towards the cost of Deadline: June 25, 2021 the Basic Needs Trust Fund Cycle 9 Project (BNTF 9) and intends to apply a part of the funds to cover eligible payments under the Agreement. The GOB has appointed the The Government of Belize (GOB) has received financing from the Inter- American Belize Social Investment Fund (BSIF) as the Implementing Agency (IA) for the project, Development Bank (IDB), towards the cost of the Solid Waste Management and intends to apply a portion of the proceeds to eligible payments under a contract for which this invitation is issued. Payments by CDB will be made only at the request Project II and intends to apply part of the proceeds for an Individual Consultant of GOB and upon approval by CDB, and will be subject in all respects to the terms and to conduct activities (design, preparation of bid documents and supervision of conditions of the Financing Agreement. The Financing Agreement prohibits withdrawal construction) pertaining to the restoration and remediation of the main berm at from the financing account for the purpose of any payment to persons or entities, or the Mile 24 regional Sanitary Landfill. for any import of goods, if such payment or import, to the knowledge of CDB, is prohibited by a decision of the United Nations Security Council taken under Chapter The Objective of the consultancy is to review the current designs prepared for VII of the Charter of the United Nations. No party other than GOB shall derive any the remediation works, update the designs, based on directions of Belize Solid rights from the Financing Agreement or have any claim to the proceeds of the Financing. Waste Management Authority (BSWaMA) develop bid documents for the works, assist in the bidding process and supervise the construction and contract The Belize Social Investment Fund (BSIF), the IA, now invites sealed bids from eligible administration process. and qualified Bidders for the Supply and Delivery of Digital Duplicators and Accessories for BNTF9 Schools Nationwide, Belize (BNTF9).

The Belize Solid Waste Management Authority, the Executing Agency, now The Firms whether bidding individually or in the form of a Joint Venture, shall: invites interested eligible individual consultant to submit Expressions of Interest (a) be legally incorporated or otherwise organised in, and have their principal place of indicating qualification and experience required to provide these consultancy business in an Eligible Country; services listed below. (b) be more than fifty (50) percent beneficially-owned by a citizen or citizens and/or a bona fide resident or residents of an Eligible Country, or by a body corporate or A) SCOPE OF SERVICE bodies meeting these requirements, as far as the ownership can be reasonably The Consultant is expected to perform the following responsibilities: determined; or (c) owned or controlled by the Government of an eligible country provided that it is Task N0. 1. Amend Designs and Develop Final Bid Document legally and financially autonomous and operated under the commercial law of an eligible Task No 2. Assistance in Bidding Process country and otherwise meets the eligibility requirements of the CDB Guidelines for Task No 3. Construction Supervision and Contract Administration Procurement (2006). Task No 4. Management of Defects Liability Period Eligible countries are member countries of CDB.

B) QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE Eligible bidders will be required to submit full qualification information with their The Consultant shall possess a minimum of a BSc in any of the following bids establishing their eligibility to bid and qualification to perform the contract if the disciplines: Civil Engineering, Environmental Engineering, or related technical bid is accepted. Tender and qualification information are to be submitted in the English field. At least 15 years of general work experience in areas relevant to the Language on the prescribed forms inserted in the Bid Documents. Submissions that consultancy. A Master’s degree under any of the disciplines above shall be a do not provide the information required or that do not demonstrate the prospective plus. contractor’s ability to perform satisfactorily, will not qualify and will not be considered for further evaluation. SPECIFIC EXPERIENCE A secured “sample” electronic Bid document can be shared with interested Bidders at • At least 5 years of experience relevant to the consultancy in supervision of the address below, starting June 14, 2021, on week days between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 lining ponds, earthworks, road and slope design and /or construction p.m. for viewing purpose only (has a time restriction for viewing). A complete set of Bidding documents (hard-copy or electronic version) can be purchased by interested supervision. bidder upon payment of a non-refundable fee of BZ$150.00. Requests may be made • At least 5 years of experience relevant to the consultancy in the area of by personal application or in writing to the address below. Written applications must be clearly marked: “Tender for Supply and Delivery of Digital Duplicators and slope stabilization analysis for sanitary landfills or other similar design. Accessories for BNTF9 Schools Nationwide, Belize (BNTF9)”. The method of • At least 5 years of experience in the preparation of bidding documents for payment will be by cash deposited to, or Bank transfer to BSIF’s Bank Account only. multilateral funding agencies. Banking details can be requested at the address below. Cash payment will not be accepted at the BSIF Office. • Consultant shall be register with the Association of Professional Engineers of Belize, APEB. A Virtual Pre-bid meeting with interested eligible bidders will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, June 29, 2021. The link is https://bit.ly/31ACuQU. Bidders can participate in the meeting to address any queries about the bidding document or the contract scope. Interested individual Consultants must provide information demonstrating that Firms that purchase packages are urged to attend. they have the required qualification and relevant experience to perform the Services. In the assessment of submissions, consideration will be given to Hard copies of Bids must be submitted in sealed envelopes, with the name and address qualifications and experience on similar assignments. of the bidder, and be clearly marked “Tender for Supply and Delivery of Digital Duplicators and Accessories for BNTF9 School Nationwide, Belize (BNTF9)” Consultants will be selected in accordance with the procedures set out in the and must be delivered to the first address below no later than July 12, 2021 at 10:00 Inter-American Development Bank: Policies for the Selection and Contracting a.m. (Belize Time). Bids will be opened virtually at 10:15 a.m., July 12, 2021 at the of Consultants financed by the Inter-American Development Bank - GN-2350- Social Investment Fund, 3rd Floor, #1902 Constitution Drive, Belmopan, Cayo District 15, and is open to all eligible candidates as defined in the policies. in the presence of the bidders’ representatives who choose to participate. The link is https://bit.ly/31ACuQU. Electronic bidding will not be permitted. Late bids will be rejected. All bids must be accompanied with a “Bid-Securing Declaration”. The individual consultant will be selected in accordance with the Selection of Individual Consultants method set out in the Consultants Policies. BSIF reserves the right to accept or reject any bid, and to annul the process and reject all bids, at any time prior to award of contract, without thereby incurring any liability Further information can be obtained at the email address below during office to the affected prospective bidder(s) or any obligation to inform the affected hours: Monday to Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. local time. prospective bidder(s) of the grounds for BSIF action. BSIF will not defray any costs incurred by any bidder in the preparation of bids. Expressions of interest must be emailed (one (1) complete PDF file) to the address below by 3:00 p.m. on Friday, June 25, 2021. 1. Address for Inspection, Collection and Clarification of Bidding Documents, Bid Submission and Bid Opening Solid Waste Management Authority Attn: Mrs. Melanie Gladden, Procurement Officer Contact: Mrs. Therese Arzu Procurement Officer 3013 Bougainvillea Street, Orchid Garden Area Social Investment Fund City of Belmopan, Belize, C.A. 3rd Floor, #1902 Constitution Drive Tel: (501) 802 1527 Belmopan Cayo District PO Box 285 Tel: 822-0239/822-0508 E-mail: [email protected] E-mail: [email protected] Friday, June 11, 2021 AMANDALABelize Page 27

FFB calls U15 National Team boys to camp

BELMOPAN, Mon. June 7, 2021 Belmopan; scr – Stann Creek; bze – Quijano (snp); and forwards – “Consistency is key for quality The Football Federation of Belize Belize District; cyo – Cayo; czl – Kenrick Gordon (bze), Ahmad work” - Technical Director, Philip (FFB) is calling the following U-15 Corozal; owk – Orange Walk; tol – Augustine (cyo), Amid Flores (czl), Marin. Male players to camp on Friday, June Toledo; snp – San Pedro): Enrique Gill (owk) and Jalen Flores 11, at 9:00 a.m. goalkeepers – Aldane Moore (bmp), (tol). - press release - The Belize National U15 Boys Alexander Lopez (bmp) and Tyrone team is starting its preparations for Alvarez (bze); defenders – Warren the UNCAF U15 Boys Qualifiers to Dyck (bmp), Lucas Caal (bmp), FFB calls U17 Women’s be held in Nicaragua at the Estadio Jahiem Mena (scr), Brandon Rogers, Nacional de Nicaragua in Managua, Jr. (bze), Alexis Mendez (czl) and Nicaragua from August 22 to 28, Diego Chan (owk); midfielders – National Team to camp 2021. Tyrese Moody (bmp), Zyvaughn Ara The FFB takes this opportunity to (bmp), Corey Hynes (scr), Harrison BELMOPAN, Mon. June 7, 2021 (bze); defenders – Zulma Aguilar wish the National U15 Boys team all Roches, Jr. (scr), Aaron Estero, Jr. The Belize National U17 Women’s (bmp), Anika Ramos (scr), Jessie the best as they prepare for the (scr), Flayden Carter (bze), Kevaun team is starting its training McLaughlin (scr), Tamera Garbutt tournament. Sampson (bze), Ronan Cano (cyo), preparations for the CONCACAF (mds), Gabriela Mendoza (mds), Players called to camp (bmp – Micah Roches (tol) and Brandon U17 Women’s Qualifiers to be played Xhania Dubon (cyo), Nigelee Myers from the 21st to 29th August, 2021. (cyo) and Vatrany Perez (snp); Venue to be determined by Concacaf. midfielders – Alicia Coc (bmp), The Football Federation of Belize Roshanny Narvaez (bmp), Khalydia (FFB) wishes the National U17 Velasquez (scr), Liala Waight (cyo), Women’s team all the best as they Presilla Alamilla (czl) and Rebekah report to camp on June 11 at 9:00 a.m. Pettingale (owk); and forwards – U17 Women players called to Cenia Apolonio (scr), Shendra camp (bmp – Belmopan, scr – Stann Casimiro (scr), Allyishia Bowman Creek, mds – Mid-South, cyo – Cayo, (cyo), Nyeisha Obando (cyo), czl – Corozal, bze – Belize District, Vanelley Santoya (czl), Ailani Job vacancy tol – Toledo, owk – Orange Walk, Gonzalez (bze) and Zeaunn Alvarez snp – San Pedro): goalkeepers – (tol). NURSE: The essential duties and responsibilities of the Nurse will be to provide Belinda Linarez (bmp), Jaleeny medical services to all guests and staff members. The nurse shall assist the Belisle (bmp) and Destinee Lopez - press release - ship’s medical team during call days. The nurse will be involved with all health- related matters, including outbreak prevention, illness reporting, and emergency procedures.

RESPONSIBILITIES: • Administer safe nursing care to all patients in accordance with island medical plan and pursuant to the NCL nursing objectives and policies. • Conduct patient assessment by observation, reporting and recording patient condition and changes, as well as physical, emotional and social needs of the patient. • Maintain staff illness and injury logs. Completes all paperwork associated with various medical situations. • Maintain team member illness logs and medical files. • Execute medical emergency procedures in accordance with emergency action plan • Order medical supplies and equipment • Performs weekly checks of emergency equipment and maintenance of all Medical Center equipment. • Properly dispose of hazardous waste and used sharps • Actively participate in staff member education and training programs • Executes and has a good working knowledge of all paperwork associated with the operations of the Medical Center. • Ensure a clean, safe environment for patient, visitors and staff. • Ability to relocate to a vicinity in Southern Belize, nearby Harvest Caye • Must always be available during operating hours on Harvest Caye • Performs other related duties as assigned or as directed. The omission of specific duties does not preclude the supervisor from assigning duties that are logically related to the position.

QUALIFICATION AND EXPERIENCE: • Bachelor of Science in Nursing or foreign equivalent is required • Minimum of one (1) year practical experience in Advanced Cardiac Life Support is required. • Minimum of three (3) years’ experience working in the Emergency Departmentis required. • Minimum of one (1) year experience performing Basic Life support until the physician arrives is required. • Current certification in Advanced Cardiac Life Support within one year of application, with renewal of Advanced Cardiac Life Support certification every two years from a recognized educational institution, is required. • Valid Belize nursing license • Active member in the Nursing Association of Belize. • Valid Belize Social Security Card

WE OFFER COMPETITIVE SALARIES BASED ON EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS. If interested, please send resume and other documentsto [email protected] June 18, 2021. Page 28 AMANDALABelize Friday, June 11, 2021

Job vacancy

ISLAND AQUATIC MANAGER: The essential duties and responsibilities of the Aquatic Safety Manager includes maintaining Aquatic safety on Harvest Caye (HC) for all guests and staff. Also responsible for promoting and selling the various Island activities to guests; coordinating tour dispatches and assisting in various clerical duties when required.

RESPONSIBILITIES: • The primary function will be to maintain Aquatic Safety on Harvest Caye such as but not limited to Pool, Beach, Splash Pad, Baby Pool, and Lagoon. • Enforce all aquatic/island company policies. • Recognize and respond appropriately and calmly to emergencies. • Have knowledge of proper use of communication systems such as VHF, UHF radios, whistles and flags in accordance to international standards. • Ability to use rescue equipment such as rescue wave runner, kayak etc. • Ability to repair, maintain and/or order and replace Beach & Pool island equipment such as but not limited to mats, floats, snorkeling gear, wave runner dock, lifeguard stands. • Communicating to all other departments in the event of inclement weather (i.e. lighting) when all activities are being suspended and subsequently reopened. • Maintain enough inventory of lifesaving equipment and Lifeguard safety equipment (i.e. Pocket Masks, Ponchos, Sunscreen, Whistles, Sunglasses, etc.) • Participate in the daily upkeep of the island and grounds. • Conduct inventories of all island Beach & Pool items on a regular basis. • Follow proper procedures for cleaning and disinfecting snorkeling equipment. • Participate in regular trainings/drills. • Enforce all aquatic/island company policies • Schedule staff for daily duties and responsibilities on the island. • Prepare accident reports. • Schedule and conduct emergency and in-service training drills on weekly basis • Prepare and conduct evaluations for staff. • Perform other related duties as assigned or as directed. The omission of specific duties does not preclude the supervisor from assigning duties that are logically related to the position. • Ability to relocate to a vicinity in Southern Belize, nearby Harvest Caye

QUALIFICATION AND EXPERIENCE: • Resort hospitality experience and shipboard experience. • Min of 2 years in Cruise Line Industry or land-based Resort as a Lifeguard • Bachelor’s degree in Tourism and/or Management or related field • Minimum of five (5) years resort hospitality experience or similar. • Minimum of two (2) years in Cruise Line Industry or land- based Resort as a Lifeguard • Minimum of two (2) years in Management/Lead position • Intermediate-level skills using Microsoft Word and Excel • Valid Driver’s License • Intermediate to advance verbal and written level of English is required.

WE OFFER COMPETITIVE SALARY BASED ON EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS. If interested, please send resume and other documentsto [email protected] June 18, 2021. Friday, June 11, 2021 AMANDALABelize Page 29 Blue Economy Ministry observes World Oceans Day

by Kory Leslie (freelance writer) energy, carbon sequestration and innovative community products.” BELIZE CITY, Tues. June 8, 2021 Following the ceremony, which On Tuesday, in recognition of World featured the unveiling of the new Oceans Day 2021, global stakeholders “Barrier Reef brand”, CEO Carrillo conducted virtual ceremonies under spoke more about her Ministry’s the theme, “The Ocean: Life and mandate in this multi-trillion-dollar Livelihoods”. economic sector. On that day, the Ministry of the Blue “The Ministry of the Blue Economy Economy and Civil Aviation hosted has a very important mandate. Our its own ceremony in recognition of the mandate is to be economists, but day. The Director of Fisheries, environmentalists at the same time. So, Beverly Wade, and the CEO in the it requires a very fine balancing act Blue Economy Ministry, Kennedy between being able to take advantage Carrillo, were both invited to speak. of our aquatic resources and spaces, Carrillo delivered the keynote address, but doing it in a manner that is we have that we have to invest. This CEO Carrillo also thanked the in which she highlighted Belize’s responsible and sustainable. I always is our blue capital. So, if we want to Belize City Council for allowing the privilege of being the “epitome of think of it as, we’re not utilize this to move our economy, then Ministry of the Blue Economy to adopt oceanic beauty”. She also discussed environmentalists, we’re economists. we have to be smart [like] any other the Seashore Park. The Ministry has the Blue Economy Ministry’s novelty Every economist and every investor investor and ensure that we are doing apparently been working with the and its mandate to provide economic is very, very careful and very savvy it in a manner that is smart, it is very private sector and NGOs to create a success through “sustainable fisheries, in terms of how they invest their strategic and it is very carefully design to beautify the park. marine transportation, renewable resources. This is our resource that planned out,” remarked Carrillo. Additionally, the new design will illustrate the Ministry’s brand and is also intended to be more welcoming to persons visiting the area. My perspective...

by Patrick Rodgers

Actually, the 39 villages having communal land rights absolutely should not have a village chairperson with councilors. However, the system continues to operate with both in place: The Alcalde’s role has been diminished to a sort of Judicial one, while the village council is allowed to act as the Executive, with the backing of the national government. Until the proper demarcation of all almost 200 villages is conducted, the national government will continue to dictate what happens in all of them — whether they use the Alcalde or village council to get it done. I have always felt that they were only able to manipulate the village councils. However, these younger Alcaldes seem to have their prices as well. We need to get our own Indigenous Peoples Act and Indigenous Peoples Land Act in place ASAP to conform with the CCJ rulings and stop confusing BELIZEANS — or remove Belize’s signature from the Convention(s) that mandates it and ties any independent judge’s hands in their rulings. Belize wants to look good internationally by signing these UN/OAS Conventions to say we value and respect our indigenous peoples’ right to autonomy! The REALITY on the ground is that they RESIST the required LOCAL legal framework (putting in place the NEW LAWS required) to fulfill Belize’s obligations under these Conventions. On another note — in a similar way, there has been a need for the RECONDEV law to be repealed since 1999 when the The City of Belmopan Act became law and a new authority was legislated to do EVERYTHING RECONDEV does plus everything else the Belmopan City Council continues to do. Page 30 AMANDALABelize Friday, June 11, 2021 DigiCell down in PG for almost 12 hours

by Dayne Guy overtime at work when the service Job vacancy just vanished. I didn’t save anything, PUNTA GORDA, Toledo District, so I had to go back to pen and paper Provision Master: The essential duties and responsibilities of the Tues. June 8, 2021 to jot down what I remembered. It was Provision Master includes the management of all incoming food, Last week, DigiCell users in the truly terrible. I couldn’t get any work beverage, Consumables, chinaware, glassware, hollowware/flatware, to Toledo district were left totally off- done,” he said. ensure that standard inventory practices and USPH standards are grid, with no telephone or internet A teacher at one of Toledo’s rural maintained within budgeted guidelines, managing the Provisions connection to anyone outside their schools also commented on the department while utilizing modern management principles as well as district, after communications incident. He said, “As a teacher here incorporating technological innovations where practical, in order to services were disrupted due to a in the Toledo district, we have had to ensure proper inventory management and support to the Food and damaged fiber optic cable. deal with adverse conditions ever Beverage department. On Thursday, June 3, sometime since I have known. As I recall, there around 4:30 p.m., residents of was an extended interruption in the RESPONSIBILITIES: southern Belize lost their ability to telecommunication services. This • Ensure that orders are placed according to the Provisioning send or receive calls and texts and to interruption inhibited my ability to schedule for the Island, based off consumption history and par browse the web. A damaged fiber levels keep in touch with some of my students optic cable in the Santa Cruz Village • Regularly communicate with the F&B Director, Executive Chef, Bar and update additional grades in the Manager and Restaurant Manager regarding stock rotation, par caused this phone outage, which online system.” It is to be noted that levels, depletion plans and inventory discrepancies. persisted for just short of 12 hours. schools are nearing the end of the • Schedule weekly walk-through of the food stores with the F&B DigiCell, the leading semester and teachers have strict Director, Maintenance Manager and Executive Chef. telecommunications provider in deadlines that need to be met. • Ensure that all areas are maintained in accordance with Company Belize, dispatched technicians to the Our source, who wishes to remain policy, USPH, SEMS and safety and environmental regulations. area shortly after, and they worked for anonymous, further questioned • Ensure that the company’s standards are maintained in the almost 13 hours to restore services and whether this event would occur in any following areas: fully repair the damage. The cause of other district for such a long period o Proper storeroom management the damaged cable remains unknown. and he remarked that it possibly might o Par level accuracy It is believed that someone may have reflect the country’s historical neglect o Inventory Management System tampered with the cables in an attempt of southern communities. “I wonder o Incoming ordering schedules to remove and sell them. why we were affected for such a long o Inter-Departmental ordering schedules/internal A resident of Punta Gorda, Kevin time and the issue wasn’t resolved any requisitions Avilez, described the impact of the faster, and if we were in any other o Public Health outage on his activities: “Personally, district would the issue have lasted • Ensure that inventories are conducted for all stores on a weekly I was concerned. I was working that long,” he said. basis and that inventories are conducted in accordance with company policy. • Conduct daily spot checks in all the stores to verify inventory accuracy. 3 steps against COVID-19 • Ensure that all food products are stored in the appropriate storage according to product type and temperature in accordance with BIHL’s loading procedures • Maintains all food and beverage related inventories, storerooms and ensures accurate inventory counts and levels, while identifying cost and expense reductions • Ensures that all inventory transactions are accurately documented and approved by appropriate management. • Continuous monitoring to ensure accuracy of inventory received, issued, spoilage, breakage and transfers. • Responsible for reconciling inventory levels with the inventory management system and investigating discrepancies as per by Dayne Guy which is experiencing surges in cases company policy. and remains one of the few countries • Responsible for monitoring and reporting invoice price Washington DC, U.S.A., Wed. June that have not begun its vaccination discrepancies to the F&B Director, Executive Chef, Beverage 9, 2021 programme. Manager, Restaurant Manager and Procurement officer. The Director of the Pan American Director Etienne further thanked • Responsible for reporting any cost, quantity or unit of measure Health Organization, Dr. Carissa the US and Spain, who have pledged variances within the Inventory Management System. Etienne, outlined at PAHO’s last to donate a cumulative 11 million • Performs other related duties as assigned or as directed. The weekly media briefing, a three-step vaccines initially to the Latin omission of specific duties does not preclude the supervisor process that must be followed to American and Caribbean region. from assigning duties that are logically related to the position. control and eradicate the SARS- Etienne also thanked Canada for • Ability to relocate to a vicinity in Southern Belize, nearby CoV-2 virus. In order to keep pledging to contribute $50 million Harvest Caye COVID-19 infections at bay, vaccines Canadian dollars to increase the need to be more accessible, health region’s accessibility to vaccines. QUALIFICATION AND EXPERIENCE: measures must be followed and The last pillar in addressing • Associates Degreeor foreign equivalent in a related technology-backed science must pave COVID-19 is a willingness to let discipline is required. the way for coronavirus immunity. science lead the way, said Dr. • Prior restaurant management experience may substitute for In her address, Director Carissa Etienne. “It’s worth mentioning that this educational requirement at an equivalent rate. • Etienne said, “We urgently need to we must let science lead the way. Minimum of five years’ experience as a Storeroom or ramp up access to vaccines in the This virus has been extensively Procurement Manager is required. Americas. While we need more researched; treatments and vaccines • Minimum of five years’ experience with high volume food and beverage purchasing along with shipboard experience is required. doses everywhere, the countries at have undergone rigorous testing, and • Intermediate to Advanced level English verbal and writing skills, greatest risk, where vaccines have global institutions like the WHO and including the proper use of English grammar. been slowest to arrive and even PAHO are continuing to update • Intermediate to Advanced skills in typing and computer software where vulnerable populations have guidance based on the latest available skills (Microsoft Word, Excel, Fidelio Cruise, Micros), including yet to be protected, these countries evidence,” said Dr. Etienne. an Inventory Control Management system (e.g.: Fidelio, Stratton urgently need more vaccines.” PAHO Countries are encouraged to stay up Warren, AS400, MXP, People Soft) is required. has noted that if one country is left to date with the latest best practices behind in the immunization progress, for handling COVID-19. Unproven WE OFFER COMPETITIVE SALARY BASED ON EXPERIENCE AND all populations are at risk of treatments must be thoroughly studied QUALIFICATIONS. If interested, please send resume and other reinfection and new outbreaks. PAHO in clinical trials, minimizing the risk documentsto [email protected] June 18, 2021. notes that added interest should be of embracing strategies that are shown to countries like Haiti — ineffective or harmful, she said. Friday, June 11, 2021 AMANDALABelize Page 31

Belize’s basketball future

BELIZE CITY, Thurs. May 27, 2021 few years. Elementary and then With no current basketball “Many are called” but not all are SJC high school, where competition in Belize due to Covid- chosen; and Pulu himself has he was the regional 19 restrictions, the recent visit of admitted that he has on occasion MVP in his senior year. Tony Wright’s grandson, Marques had to cut a few players from his Alexander is a Business “Ques” Warrick to Belize did not Future Shock camp due to their Administration major, ignite a whole lot of interest despite refusal to accept the discipline and has already secured his stellar achievements on the required to compete at the highest a scholarship to college basketball scene in the U.S.; level in a team environment. But Briercrest College in but his participation in scrimmages those who stuck it out and Saskatchewan, Canada, with some of coach Clinton “Pulu” maintained their grades in school where he is headed to Lightburn’s Future Shock players has have grown in their skill and this “summer.” at least served to validate what Pulu knowledge of basketball, what Just turned 16 years has been saying for some time, that Ques referred to as their basketball old, Nisani Mendez is we do have some outstanding young “I.Q.”, and that spells good news already 6 feet 2 inches talents here in Belize, that if given for the future Belize National tall, and attends the opportunity can go much farther Basketball Team. Quality School International of 17-year-old Jaheim Ciego stands in the sport and thereby access Among the young men in Pulu’s Belize in Belmopan. 6 feet 5 inches and is a 2020 educational opportunities abroad, camp at Bird’s Isle on Tuesday, May 17-year-old Kentrell Marshall is graduate of Ecumenical High even if they don’t make it to the top 18, were 19-year-old SJC Sixth a 6 feet 1 inch 3rd Form student at School in Dangriga. He is in his echlons of the highly competitive Form student, Alexander Ariola, Nazarene High School, who has first year with Future Shock. sport in the U.S. Ques was who is 6 feet 5 inches tall. been with Future Shock for two And 17-year-old Brandon impressed by the youngsters that Alexander is in his first year with years now. He attended St. Martin’s Vasquez, who is 5 feet 10 inches Pulu has been working with for a Future Shock. He attended Belize Primary, where he holds the tall, is a 4th Form student at SJC, primary school record of 56 points and is now in his sixth year as a in a competition game. member of Future Shock. 16-year-old Kyle Castillo stands In his occasional Facebook posts, 5 feet 11 inches and is a 3rd Form Pulu Lightburn has highlighted the student at SJC, now in his fourth spectacular accomplishments on the year with Future Shock. Mexican basketball scene of his 16-year-old Evan Welch is 6 feet young Future Shock basketball 2 inches tall. He is a 3rd Form teams, much like the legendary student at Gwen Lizarraga High Harlem Globetrotters. We no longer School, and is a 7-year veteran of have to take Pulu’s word for it, Pulu’s Future Shock program. since we have now received the 16-year-old Shane Pratt is 6 feet acknowledgement and thumbs-up 3 inches, a 3rd Form ACC student, from a young man who has already and he has been a Future Shock experienced basketball at the member for three years now. highest collegiate levels in the U.S. 16-year-old Jahzani Lightburn Who knows? Time flies, and it (Pulu’s grandson) is 6 feet 1 inch may not be too long before Ques is tall, a 3rd Form SJC student, and reunited on a Belize National has been with Future Shock for five Basketball Team with a few of these years. same youngsters featured here. Page 32 AMANDALABelize Friday, June 11, 2021 Friday, June 11, 2021 AMANDALABelize Page 33 Page 34 AMANDALABelize Friday, June 11, 2021

Nurses leave KHMH for PUBLIC AUCTION SALE: PROPERTIES Placencia Pensinsula, Stann Creek District better opportunities BY ORDER of the Mortgagees Messrs. The Belize Bank International Limited, Licensed Auctioneers Kevin A. Castillo and Christiana R. Castillo are selling ONLINE via belizepropertyauctions.com those properties appearing below. Sales BELIZE CITY, Tues. June 8, 2021 currently running and will expire on Thursday 17th June 2021 at the times shown This morning the Minister of on the website. Health and Wellness, Hon. Michel Chebat, confirmed reports that nurses 1. No. 2123 West Wind Drive, The Placencia Residences, Placencia Peninsula, Stann Creek District: employed at the Karl Heuser Memorial Hospital (KHMH) have been leaving their posts at that Institution to take up opportunities overseas. During a local morning show, Chebat said that about twenty- REGISTRATION SECTION BLOCK PARCEL five to thirty nurses will be leaving Placencia North 36 2123 the KHMH, Belize’s national referral hospital, which has already been (Being a reinforced masonry block building frame [60 ft. X 60 ft. + carport 20 ft. X experiencing a shortage of nurses 20 ft.] and lot [768.690 S.M.] situate on West Wind Drive, The Placencia since the start of the COVID-19 Residences, Placencia Peninsula, Stann Creek District, the freehold property of Messrs. Mayan Lagoon Estates Limited.) pandemic. *******NB. Restrictions on use of Property is available upon request******* Minister Chebat says that they are currently making an effort to recruit 2. No. 1486 West Wind Drive, The Placencia Residences, Placencia Peninsula, nurses and are working with the Stann Creek District: Ministry of Immigration to better facilitate work permits for nurses Early this year the Nurses from overseas as well. He said that Association of Belize (NAB) made previously the country had secured a series of public statements in which the services of nurses from Nigeria the association complained that and had also recruited a large number nurses were not being paid overtime. of nurses from the Philippines. The association also stressed that Some nurses also came to the nurses have been making great country through the Cuban Brigade, sacrifices since the start of the REGISTRATION SECTION BLOCK PARCEL Chebat additionally noted. He pandemic. Placencia North 36 1486 commented that the Health Ministry It has been over one year since the is challenged with matching the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in (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/kitchen + compensation packages offered by the country, and the country has so far laundry + utility room + storage under staircase; First Floor: 22 ft. X 43 ft. + porch other countries. While nurses at the experienced two waves of the 5 ft. X 22 ft. containing master bedroom + bathroom + walk-in closet; Second Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital coronavirus. At this time, the Ministry Floor: 10 ft. X 10 ft. viewing attic (access to all three floors via internal concrete have not been directly impacted by is addressing an added shortfall in staircase with timber steps) and lot [919.702 square meters (1099.95 square yards)] the government’s recent 10% salary healthcare staffing which will result situate on West Wind Drive, The Placencia Residences, Placencia Peninsula, Stann cut, the union to which those nurses from the departure of these nurses. Creek District, the freehold property of Mr. Ron Oczkowski and Ms. Barbara Bell.) *******NB. Restrictions on use of Property is available upon request******* belong stood with the Joint Unions Reports are that some nurses may be in the call for good governance and heading to the United Kingdom to take 3. No. 2108 West Wind Drive, The Placencia Residences, Placencia Peninsula, against the 10 percent pay cuts. up positions in that healthcare system. Stann Creek District:

Sunday Review REGISTRATION SECTION BLOCK PARCEL News Review Talk Show Placencia North 36 2108

On Krem TV & Krem Radio (Being a two-storey concrete building [32 ft. X 32 inclusive of a porch 5 ft. X 16 ft. Live-streaming on Krem Television Face Book Page + back porch 5 ft. wide containing Ground Floor: master bedroom + walk-in closet + bathroom + living/dining/kitchen + half bathroom + laundry room; Second Floor: Host: YaYa Marin Coleman Co-Host: Alba 1 bedroom + closet + bathroom (access via internal concrete & tiled staircase)] and lot [937.060 S.M.] situate on West Wind Drive, The Placencia Residences, Date: Sunday, June 13, 2021 Time: 10:30 a.m. to noon Placencia Peninsula, Stann Creek District.) Guest: Breda David Massiah/General Secretary of the Antigua *******NB. Restrictions on use of Property is available upon request******* and Barbuda Workers Union, (A.B.W.U.) 4. Parcel No. 2159 Placencia Residences, Placencia Peninsula, Stann Creek: Sunday Review will be repeated at 5:30 p.m. on Sunday, June 13, 2021

REGISTRATION SECTION BLOCK PARCEL Placencia North 36 2159

(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 District, the freehold property of Mr. Ryan Pott). *******NB. Restrictions on use of Property is available upon request*******

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION - www.belizebank.com (foreclosure listing) TERMS: STRICTLY CASH KEVIN A. CASTILLO TELEPHONE 223-4488 Website: belizepropertyauctions.com E-mail: [email protected] Face Book: Belize Auctions Friday, June 11, 2021 AMANDALABelize Page 35 Page 36 AMANDALABelize Friday, June 11, 2021

BELIZE TAX SERVICE DEPARTMENT REQUEST FOR EXPRESSION OF INTEREST FOR CLEANING & MAINTENANCE SERVICES AT CHARLES BARTLETT HYDE BUILDING, BELIZE CITY

The Belize Tax Service Departmentseeks expressions of interest from SECURITY companies wishing to tender their services for cleaning and 1. The Contractor shall ensure that there is no pilferage on the maintenance at our headquarters in Belize City. Sanitization and part of his/her employees. cleaning of theoffice is essential to provide a safe and healthy 2. Most of the work to be done by the personnel in the building environment for the BTSD personnel and the public. is highly sensitive and confidential, the Contractor and his personnel must ensure that they do not interfere with, read, Scope of work: make copies of, or remove any such papers from the building. To maintain a clean and healthy working environment at the BTSD at 3. No such documents shall be removed from the building under Charles Bartlett Hyde building and compound on Mahogany Street in the guise of being garbage or litter. Belize City, Belize, the contractor must undertake the following cleaning 4. A police record shall be providedfor all personnel. and maintenance services: 5. The Contractor and all personnel must sign and adhere to the Confidentiality Oath. Deliverables The scope of the contract shall include the following: PROVISION OF LABOUR AND EQUIPMENT 1. Cleaning of office spaces, cafeteria, kitchenette, office furniture, 1. It is hereby understood and agreed that by the Contractor equipment and conference facilities along with respective that this is a “fixed price”contract, and the Contractor shall fixtures. provide all labour, equipment and cleaning supplies to perform 2. Cleaning of all bathrooms and their fixtures. his/her duties under this contract includingOne (1) supervisor, 3. Cleaning of the stairways, corridors and foyer area, railings and five janitors and one yard attendant. doors. • There is a dedicated storage room on the premises for keeping 4. Cleaning of windows – internally and externally. supplies and equipment. 5. Compoundmaintenance. 6. Garbage disposal. RESPONSIBILITY 1. The contractor shall ensure that the building has been properly Main Activities: cleaned in accordance with the terms and conditions of this a. Office space, furniture and equipment: contract. Daily: 2. The contractor is responsible for all fees, taxes and other cost 1. Sweep and mop offices spaces properly. related to worker’s compensation, GST, Social Security 2. Empty office paper/wastebins. contributions, etc. 3. Change garbage bags for office paper/waste bins. 3. The Contractor shall attend quarterly meetings or as requested with the representative of the employers for monitoring and Weekly: evaluation of cleaning and maintenance services performed 1. Cleaning/dusting/polishing/sanitizing of office by the contractor, as set out in the terms and conditions of furniture and equipment such as: the contract. ü Filing cabinets 4. The Contractor must invoice the Government of Belize monthly ü Cupboards, shelves, desks and desk equipment for services rendered. ü Printers, photocopiers, computer stations 5. The Government of Belize assumes no liability, expenses or ü Telephones and fax machines cost for the conduct andwork of the contractor or its employees. 2. Dust ceilings and walls for cobwebs (how often)– internal 6. All work must be done between the hours agreed upon. and external b. Conference room COMENCEMENT AND DURATION After every use – cleaning/dusting/mopping and washing of The duration of the contract is for two (2) years for the period July 1, utensils 2021, to June 20, 2023, and is subject to satisfactory performance of 1. Dust and wipe frames, clocks and other fixtures. the contractor. 2. Dust and polish all furniture. 3. Sweep and mop floors. QUALIFICATION FOR THE CLEANING COMPANY 4. Weekly dusting of ceiling and wall to remove cobwebs. The selected consultant should have the following characteristics: c. Bathrooms 1. Have a minimum of three (3) years working experience in Daily: Government offices. 1. Properly sweep and mop floors. 2. Cleaning and maintenance or similar type work experience of 2. Clean and disinfect toilets (9:00 am, 2:00 pm & 5:00 at least five (5) years is required. pm). 3. Experience working in the public and private sector in similar 3. Clean basin, mirrors and other fixtures. assignment. 4. Empty garbage bin and change garbage bags. 4. Skills, Abilities and Knowledge 5. Replenish toiletries as required - toilet paper, hand The team will need to have or demonstrate the following: towel and handwashing liquid soap etc. ü Excellent written and communication skills in English and Weekly: Spanish. 1. Disinfect garbage bins weekly. ü The ability to solve problems in a timely fashion. d. Kitchenettes ü Organizing a work team with hands-on experience. Daily: ü Good public relations, organizational, coordination and 1. Properly sweep and mop floors. networking skills required. 2. Clean microwave, coffee maker, table and sinks. ü Honesty, integrity, and respect. 3. Empty garbage bin and change garbage bags. ü Demonstrate daily monitoring of on-site workers. 4. Replenished as seen necessary washing liquid, kitchen paper towels Weekly: APPLICATION PROCEDURES: 1. Disinfect garbage bins. Bidding package should contain: 2. Clean refrigerators. e. Corridors, foyerarea, stairway, railing and doors 1. Comprehensive proposal that includes the company’s Daily: profile, interests, experience, and expertise. 1. Sweep corridors, foyer area and stairway. 2. Certificate of Good Standing from Belize Company Registry. 2. Disinfecting of doors including knobs. 3. Certificate of Good Standing from the Social Security As required Board. 1. Mop corridors, foyer area stairway (Monday’s, 4. Certificate of Good Standing from the Belize Tax Service Wednesday and Friday’s). “For Bidding Purposes”. 2. Clean and disinfect railings on both stairways 5. Current Trade License. (Wednesday and Fridays). 6. Two (2) recommendation letters. f. Internal and external window cleaning 1. Clean windows and windowsills (monthly or asrequired) The lowest or any tender will not necessarily be accepted. Late bids 2. Clean (power wash) exterior windows and doors. will be disqualified and returned to the sender unopened. 3. Dust/clean ceiling fans monthly or as required. g. Maintain cleanliness of the grounds/building. Deadline date for submission of proposals is before or on June 18, h. Maintain the compound and building litter free. 2021, and should be addressed to i. Clean drains surrounding the building. Mrs. Michelle Longsworth IDENTIFICATION Director General During the time, the services are being performed, all employees Belize Tax Service Department for the contractors shall wear identifiable clothes showing that they Charles Bartlett Hyde Building are contractors’ workers. Mahogany Street Extension, Belize City The contractor shall send a list of personnel and their hours of Ref: “TENDER FOR THE PROVISION OF CLEANING AND work for the week to the Employer’s representative at the beginning MAINTENANCE SERVICES FOR THE BELIZE TAX SERVICE of each week. DEPARTMENTIN BELIZE CITY” Friday, June 11, 2021 AMANDALABelize Page 37 Covid-19 Update BELIZE CITY, Thurs. June 10, 2021 primary school’s staff. cases have been The Covid-19 pandemic continues The Ministry of Health and Wellness identified since the to rage on globally, with no end in is, as a result, continuing to call all start of the pandemic, sight. The disparity in vaccination teachers to get vaccinated. Recent data with 12,460 of those efforts across countries can now suggests that only about 50% of infected person having clearly be seen just 15 months into teachers have received at least their already recovered. Out the pandemic. first jab already. This puts students fatality count stands at In Belize, we are engaged in an and communities at large at an added 325 — a case fatality ongoing immunization program, but risk of infection. The Health Ministry rate of 2.51 %. at an extremely slow pace. The thus advised schools to close their Currently, 62 Ministry of Health and Wellness doors and commence their summer women and 64 men created a rollout plan for the break early, as they seek to increase across the country are inoculation of various segments of the the percentage of teachers vaccinated infected with the population, but is now calling all before the new school year. virus. citizens to get vaccinated at The Minister of Health and Wellness On Wednesday, June authorized vaccination centers. The told local media that they are currently 9, a total of 7 new country is expecting to receive looking to acquire some Pfizer cases were found from another allocation of vaccines from vaccines that could be administered a batch of 718 tests the COVAX facility shortly. to children ages 12 and older. He said processed. Seven new We have also seen the Health that the next step in our recovery recoveries were also processed and area during those days. A total of 38 Ministry’s efforts to go into rural would be to start to vaccinate those four hospitalizations were logged. new cases were identified from the parts of the country to offer younger populations. Two of those hospitalized persons batch of 1705 tests processed. Four vaccination and testing as a part of Today, June 10, 2021, the data from needed intensive care. hospitalizations were recorded, with its surveillance and response plan. the Health Ministry shows a total of 8 On June 8, 10 new cases were one person needing intensive care. Also, today, June 10, a mobile clinic new cases from a batch of 668 tests identified from 630 samples Three persons were logged as was set up in Santa Cruz, on the processed. A total of 4 additional processed. No additional deaths were recovered on that day. compound of the primary school of recoveries were recorded and 3 recorded, and 7 persons were marked And on Friday, June 4, a total of that village, and villagers were persons were hospitalized today, with as recovered. 21 new cases were found from a set offered free testing and 2 needing intensive care. No Over the last weekend, from June 5 of 926 tests. Five additional vaccination. Earlier this week we additional deaths were recorded. to June 7, officials from the Ministry recoveries were recorded and 6 reported on a Covid-19 cluster that At this time a total of 126 actives of Health and Wellness closed in on persons were hospitalized — one of was identified in that village, with cases of COVID-19 are within the the COVID-19 cluster in Santa Cruz whom needed intensive care. the index case being a member of the country. A total of 12,928 confirmed village and isolated 13 cases in that Globally, the Biden administration has announced that it will be buying half a billion Covid-19 vaccine doses to distribute across the globe. The Hartin free on $30,000 bail United States is one of the most (From page 1) vaccinated countries in the world, after being hit hard by the pandemic BELIZE CITY. Wed. June 9, 2021 that Hartin’s bail application had been bail should be granted to the accused, in the latter part of last year. Dr. Vivek This afternoon, in the Supreme Court, approved. Despite the emotionally who had been behind bars at the Belize Murthy, the US surgeon general, bail was granted to Jasmine Hartin, the charged nature of the manslaughter Central Prison for a little over a week. warns that unvaccinated persons may common-law wife of Lord Ashcroft’s case, however, the bail decision hinged He told the court that Hartin has no be at a higher risk of severe sickness youngest son, after her attorney, Senior on arguments submitted by the Crown criminal record and that the prosecution from the new, more deadly variants. Counsel Godfrey Smith, argued Counsel and Hartin’s attorney did not provide any evidence to One such variant is the Delta successfully that Hartin, who is respectively, and it appears that Justice discredit her morals or conduct, despite variant, first appearing in India in charged for manslaughter in connection Lord was not convinced, after the fact that Hartin was found with a February 2021, and also known as with the death of Superintendent of reviewing the submission of Crown small quantity of cocaine on the night the double-variant. This strain of the Police, Henry Jemmott, is not a flight Counsel Shanice Lovell, who of her arrest. virus is said to be more risk. The Director of Public represented the DPP’s office, that He also pointed out that the accused transmissible. Reports are that the Prosecution’s Crown Counsel had Hartin’s alleged flight risk status was lives in Belize and has economic ties Delta variant accounts for 6% of the asserted in the DPP’s submissions to sufficient reason to deny her bail. SC to the country, since she manages the new cases of the virus across the the court that there is a high possibility Smith, on the other hand, successfully Alaia resort on San Pedro Caye with world. that Hartin will leave the country if asserted that enough evidence had not her common-law husband, Andrew India continues to lag behind in granted bail. been provided by the Crown Counsel Ashcroft. vaccination as a 2nd wave of the In the end, Justice Herbert Lord, who to support the DPP’s claims. He added that she did not flee the virus leaves catastrophic loss of life presided over the bail application, Smith pointed out that the scene of the incident, which, he in its wake. That South Asian country ruled that the risk of Hartin leaving the prosecution had not called into question insisted, will likely be proven to have has reportedly experienced the country would be minimal, with the Hartin’s character, morals or conduct, been an accident. world’s worst outbreak, with appropriate requirements and and he posited that her Canadian Smith also highlighted the minimal 400,000 cases being recorded each conditions in place. citizenship and the fact that she lives in severity of the punishment that is meted day. In that country, volunteers are Attorney Godfrey Smith specified Belize via a monthly extension to her out in manslaughter-by-negligence forced to set up makeshift clinics and some of those requirements and visitor’s permit were not a good cases, which is typically a fine and a crematoriums in order to support conditions when he spoke to local enough reason to deny the application. short sentence, and argued that such a thousands of ailing victims and their media after the hearing. “The bail was SC Smith also told the court that sentence is not substantial enough to families. set at the sum of $30,000 Belize dollars Hartin wishes to return to the care of justify becoming an international In the UK, around two-thirds of all plus a surety of the same amount. her four-year-old twins, and at one fugitive. adults have received at least one dose Reportage to the police station once per point he even proposed that the court “For us, it made little sense to argue of a Covid-19 vaccine. At the start day, a request has to be made of the order travel restrictions on the children flight risk if she is under an of the year, that country was hit hard court if there is a wish to if necessary. He commented that no international media microscope for an by the Alpha or UK variant. Strict travel….Surrender of passport, all father would want his children to travel offense, for which the likely sentence protocols have led to a steady other documents and all forms of with an international fugitive, given the may be a fine or a short term in prison decrease of infection across the identification and a number of other global coverage of this story — thus and it makes no sense to flee in such British Isles, with no new death being things...,” he said. suggesting that Hartin’s common-law circumstances.” SC Godfrey Smith recorded since May 9. Copies of a document that outlines husband, the son of Lord Michael said. In Belize, the Ministry of Health those conditions were sent to the Ashcroft, would not facilitate, or Hartin was subsequently processed, and Wellness continues to urge all Commissioner of Police and the approve of, her departure from the and it appears that she easily submitted persons in the country to keep their Director of Immigration, who will then country if she took her children with that allotted bail sum and surety in guards up and adhere to all the be expected to share such information her. order to be released from the Belize protocols outlined in the COVID-19 with their units. At the end of the morning session, Central Prison. She was reportedly regulations. The Ministry calls all In some quarters there was probably Smith left the bench to review a escorted out of the facility this eligible persons to start the disappointment when it was announced checklist consisting of ten reasons that evening. vaccination process. Page 38 AMANDALABelize Friday, June 11, 2021 A new exhibit at the Museum of Belize

question-and-answer segment with hopeful that our partnership will be the media, Budhrani explained that able to gather that funding,” she said. this was a project that has been on Smiling expressed her excitement the table for a while: and anticipation when she spoke “This M.O.U has been on the about the project: “We are very table, I think, for almost a year and excited here at the museum; it gives a half. This MOU came out from the us the chance to showcase our talents. Mexican Institute when we But what I am really interested in is partnered with Dr. Ford and her team in ensuring that we are being with that display. It is important to extremely open to our community so us. We are going to start working on that their voices are at the head of the content. Creating the content, the narrative of whatever story we developing the content, does not to choose to put forward at the museum. cost us more than what we’ve So we are hoping that with this by Kory Leslie (freelance writer) to the history of the Maya of El Pilar. already been spending, but it is more exhibit, we are going to create more The exhibition will reportedly when we’re going to launch the partnerships and to include those who BELIZE CITY, Tues. June 8, 2021 showcase past indigenous methods content that we will need the need to be included within this The Museum of Belize will now for handling climate change elements financial resources. So, we’re exhibit,” she said. be featuring a new exhibit that is a and their responses to natural result of a collaboration between the phenomena, as well as their methods National Institute of Culture and to reduce soil erosion, increase History (NICH), and Exploring biodiversity and more. Although the MoE ends school year early Solutions Past — the Maya Forest exhibit will be stationed in Belize, Alliance. Both parties signed a it will be transported to all Houses memorandum of understanding on of Culture throughout the country. Continued from Page 1 attempting to ensure a smooth Tuesday at the Belize City House of Present at the signing of the „ educational transition for students. Culture as part of an agreement to memorandum of understanding were in a memo dated June 9, 2021, that it Primary school teachers have thus introduce the new exhibit that will the president of NICH, Sapna will be ending this school year’s been asked to develop special highlight the Forest Gardens Maya Budhrani; Dr. Anabel Ford of face-to-face classroom sessions a assistance programs for students who Site of El Pilar. These displays will Exploring Solutions Past — the little earlier than had been scheduled. do not meet some requirements for be designed to highlight climate Maya Forest Alliance; and the The Education Ministry (which promotion to a higher class. change responses and forest Acting Director of the Museum of apparently has been monitoring the Secondary schools are left to make gardening food solutions, in addition Belize, Ilona Smiling. During their emergence of COVID-19 cases at a promotion and graduation decisions few local schools) explained in its based on their academic policies. memo that out of an abundance of “Therefore, the Ministry is caution, and in light of the low levels appealing to Managing Authorities of Unitedville resident of vaccination seen amongst teachers, all schools to be reasonable and they have decided to end classes on compassionate, to adjust school Friday, June 18, for all pre-primary, policies and practices as necessary dies in RTA primary, secondary schools and also to afford the students every ITVETS countrywide. opportunity to be promoted, and to from Unitedville to Sibun River, and The memo states, “The option for provide the necessary support in the the accident occurred when the person testing every teacher before returning new school year to address who was driving, who has since been to the classroom is not feasible at this weaknesses,” the Ministry of identified as Sean Guzman, 32-year- time because of the large number of Education’s release stated old, apparently lost control of the teachers, the waiting time for the test Graduations will be allowed to vehicle and overturned. results if PCR tests are needed, and continue under the current protocols. Benjamin was rushed to the Western the uncertainty of which teachers have The MOE noted that its decisions Regional Hospital but was already been exposed when there are were guided by public health experts pronounced dead on arrival. The only three weeks remaining for the in an effort to reduce the spread of driver and a third passenger, identified academic year. The MoHW will, Covid-19 within the country. as Greg Garcia, were admitted for the however, continue to visit schools to treatment of varying injuries. carry out random testing and to offer In an interview with the father of vaccination for teachers at each the victim, Prince Charles Benjamin institution as a part of their efforts to BNTU files Sr. he shared he got a call from his combat the number of COVID-19 neighbor that informing him of what cases.” challenge to CAYO DISTRICT, Thurs. June 10, had happened and rushed to the Since the start of the resumption 2021 Western Regional Hospital. He said, of face-to-face schooling, the country A resident of Unitedville died last “The doctor said he got a slight cut on has seen the emergence of Covid-19 salary cuts night in a road traffic accident on the the rib side but he bleed out to death.” infections at a number of schools, Hummingbird Highway between They shared that he was a very mainly primary-level institutions. Continued from Page 1 miles 38 and 39. The victim, 30-year- helpful son, who loved socializing Recently, the index case for a „ old Prince Charles Benjamin, a with friends. The family is waiting for COVID-19 cluster in Santa Cruz was government clung to its position. Belizean construction worker both of the completion of the autopsy and discovered to be someone on school Smith has stuck to her word, and Unitedville Villag, suffered a small but making preparation to put their loved staff. Reports are that the principal has initiated an action to have the fatal gash succumbed to that injury. one to rest. and students at that Santa Cruz school Supreme Court review certain clauses Benjamin had been a passenger in Further details about the incident have been infected. in teachers’ employment contracts, a vehicle that was reportedly heading are pending at this time. The Ministry of Health and aside from the new Public Sector Wellness continues to urge teachers Emolument (Reduction) Regulations, to begin the inoculation process. So 2021. far, 352 schools have been approved At this time, teachers will begin to for reopening under strict protocols. see salary reductions reflected in their KREM PHONES: While no vaccine is available for monthly paychecks. The unions have OFFICE: 280-4469 students under the age of 18 at this said that they will engage in time, teachers were amongst the first fundraising activities to buffer the IN STUDIO: 280-4299 priority groups in the country to be impacts of the salary cuts and the declared eligible to receive a docked salaries of teachers who ON LINE LIVE: www.krembz.com vaccine. participated in the 5-week strike. Despite the early closure of We will continue to follow this case schools, the Ministry of Education is as it makes its way through the courts. Friday, June 11, 2021 AMANDALABelize Page 39 Crique Sarco land dispute goes to Cabinet Bondholders

Continued from „Page 1 agree to granting logging rights to Gary Seawell, who started work in the extension area but was subsequently stopped by the Forest Department order. Continued from Page 1 On Monday, June 7, the Sarstoon „ Temash Institute for Indigenous GOB of their request for a private Management (SATIIM) released a discussion. They had also indicated statement in support of the cease and that the committee was not in a desist order sent out by the Forest position to support the original Department. Consent Solicitation (now expired) After having met with villagers, without further talks. The acceptance the organization also agreed that the of this amended Consent Solicitation FPIC process was “not adhere[d] to should open the door for renewed during the 21st May 2021 meeting” negotiations. — the meeting at which developer Belize amended the Consent Gary Seawell was granted Solicitation before it expired on May permission to carry out logging 31 and extended the deadline by operations on private property. Fifty- which the committee could indicate eight persons signed the consent at their approval of the request to the time, along with the village’s themselves in an uncertain position, will have to be sorted out, but we’ll Friday, June 11. The revised proposal alcalde, but they still did not have one the Ministry of Lands is tasked have a discussion on it next week was reportedly accepted by the the consent of the majority, according with addressing. for sure, because another big bondholders, who are now expecting to other villagers. During an interview with local question that looms is how do you to move forward with negotiations SATIIM also noted irregularities media, Hon. Hyde said, “We’re on get [free], prior and informed with the government’s team. in the Private Forest Permit granted the uncharted territory where the consent from the Mayans as it relates According to Reuters, a statement to the developers. whole implementation of the whole to land usage and interaction down from the creditor committee said, Crique Sarco is one of the 39 communal lands victory is there? These are difficult questions, “The Committee hopes that the new villages that have been granted concerned. Big questions remain. but the times require that we grapple (non-disclosure agreement) will customary land rights by virtue of the How do you work the whole private with them and we deal with them, facilitate good faith negotiations based Supreme Court’s ruling and the land, private rights situation inside and so we’ll have discussions as we on supportable data and inter-creditor consent order from the Caribbean of communal lands, and there are lots go along to try to make sure that equity and that the process will Court of Justice. of people who have private nobody is aggrieved and that ultimately lead to a durable solution While the lands now fall under the properties in these communal lands? everybody wins in that situation as to the economic problems that underlie legal protection of the judgments laid How do you, you have people who best as we can.” Belize’s debt-servicing challenges.” down by the high courts, many private have leases who’ve not been able The release from SATIIM noted This acceptance of the lands in those villages were to renew their leases. Their leases that they intend to work with the government’s proposal by the distributed before the issuance of the have expired and we have a standing Forest Department to sensitize them bondholders came on the heels of consent order by the CCJ. Those moratorium on that kind of activity on the Consent Order and the FPIC public statements by Prime Minister persons who own private estate with the Lands Department in the process necessary before rights to Briceño regarding the approach within communal land now find communal areas, and those things communal lands can be granted. being taken by the bondholders to the negotiations. Hon. Briceño commented that the seemingly “hardball” tactics being deployed by Nurses’ Assn. calls out Chebat the bondholders would be to their disadvantage, since the trade value Continued from Page 1 creating a better environment for the of the bond would steadily nosedive „ nurses currently in Belize. The until an agreement is reached. The release states, “The Nurses’ minister needs to be reminded that According to data from Refinitive, Association of Belize, being the no foreigner will be more caring to the $550 million bonds traded as low voice of nurses throughout the length a country’s citizens than the local as 32.5 cents in the second half of and breadth of our nation, hereby professionals.” April. The bonds last traded at 38.5 expresses our extreme disgust The NAB then posited that instead cents. towards the disrespectful comments of engaging in a knee-jerk effort to The restructuring of this bond is a made by the Minister of Health and find nurses overseas, the major part of Belize’s homegrown Wellness in his address of the nursing government and the Ministry of plan of economic recovery, according shortage condition in which the Health will need to devise multi- to the Prime Minister and his Minister profession finds itself in.” faceted solutions to address the hiring of nurses across the country,” of State in the Minister of Finance, The association referred to insufficient number of nurses in the the release further noted. Hon. Chris Coye. Hon. Briceñ Chebat’s statement that the Health country, and the underlying issues The NAB additionally stated in explained that the 2021/2021 Ministry is “looking to outsource to that have to some extent caused the the release that government needs to austerity budget was drafted with the foreign nationals and are working shortage, must be considered. create a retention program instead anticipation of a haircut to the overall on a way to better facilitate work The release then mentions some of continuing to issue short-term Superbond debt. permits” and noted that Chebat said of these underlying issues that have contracts to nurses. that they are finding it difficult to contributed to the decline in the “Nursing cannot continue relevant stakeholders and compete with the compensation number of nurses available to professionally if the government discourage any lowering of the packages being offered to nurses by provide healthcare services to the continues to issue short-term standards for the admission of other countries. It then asserted that country. These issues, the release contracts instead of creating a foreign nurses. the recruitment of nurses from said, include lack of proper retention program and creating “We have qualified Belizean overseas to fill vacant spots will not compensation packages for nurses. established positions so that new nurses who are caring and are solve the issues our healthcare It also stated that the government nurses do not have to be roaming making themselves available to system faces in regard to a shortage must ensure adequate working across the world looking for secure assist the various institutions over of qualified nurses. The association, conditions and material, and promote employment,” the release said. the past years and most recently in fact, pointed out in the release that an overall healthier work The NAB reiterated that there is during the pandemic, despite there is a shortage of nurses environment. no quick fix to address the issues inadequate assistance from the worldwide. “The ministry insists on dragging that affect the profession of nursing ministry,” the release states. The release further remarked that, its feet on the amendment of the in the country. The NAB indicated in the release “It is disrespectful of the minister Nursing Care Act, and both political The association strongly urges the that they stand ready to dialogue to have suggested outsourcing nurses parties have refused to increase the Health Minister to engage in a with the government on a proper way at the first instance rather than first number of available posts for the thorough discussion with the forward. Page 40 AMANDALABelize Friday, June 11, 2021