Belize Times April 9, 2023 - Nuestra Casa, Su Casa

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The Belize Times

9 APR

THE BELIZE TIMES

2023

Established 1957

9 APRIL 2023 | ISSUE NO: 5346

The Truth Shall Make You Free

facebook/belizetimespress | $1.00

NUESTRA CASA SU CASA BELIZE AND TAIWAN STRENGTHEN TIES

“Together we have worked for the advancement of democracy at home and abroad because our people, Belizean and Taiwanese, desire to live in peace with our neighbours near and far.” Prime Minister John Briceño “What our two countries share, is the strength and courage to rise from our challenging past, and make our present and future free, bright, and prosperous.” President Tsai Ing-Wen

Resolution to Support Democratic Taiwan Motion, 2023

Pg. 2

KEY TAIWAN PROJECTS: Pg. 2

President Tsai Visits Sheep & Goat Breeding Enhancement project Belize & Taiwan sign Technical Cooperation Framework Agreement

Pg. 5

• San Pedro Hospital • Women Empowerment Project

Pg. 9

CONSULTATION: - With Chinese Merchants on Cost of Living - With NGO’s on NPO Bill

Pg. 9

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9 APR

THE BELIZE TIMES

President Tsai Visits Sheep & Goat Breeding Enhancement project

Resolution to Support Democratic Taiwan Motion, 2023

ROC (Taiwan) Technical Mission

On the afternoon of April 3 local time (early morning of April 4 Taipei time) President Tsai Ing-wen visited the Breeding Sheep and Goat Production and Guidance System Enhancement Project implemented under a Republic of China (Taiwan) technical mission.

After arriving at the Central Farm, President Tsai was first briefed by technical mission chief Pan Sheng-tsair, who explained the Taiwan-Belize cooperation project.

Minister of Agriculture, Food Security, and Enterprises Jose Mai of Belize and representatives from farm households that have benefitted from the project then delivered remarks before accompanying President Tsai to visit the sheep breeding operation. Two young people doing alternative national service, Wu You-qin and Xu Tian-han then explained the method for feeding young sheep, and President Tsai fed some lambs herself.

With support from the Taiwan-Belize bilateral cooperation project, the first facility at the Belize National Breeding Sheep & Goat Center has become the first modern high-bed sheep shed operation in Central America. The shed can accommodate nearly 400 breeding sheep and will gradually help Belize improve its overall productivity in the mutton industry. Through cooperation with the US-based Food for the Poor (FFTP) that began in 2021, the center is advising disadvantaged domestic households how to alleviate poverty through sheep husbandry. (president.gov. tw)

2023

WHEREAS, the year 2023 marks the 34th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between Belize and the Republic of China (Taiwan); AND WHEREAS, Belize and Taiwan enjoy a close relationship based on the common values of democracy, freedom, and human rights; AND WHEREAS, throughout the 34 years of friendship and alliance, Belize and Taiwan have continuously supported and helped each other and closely cooperated in numerous areas, ranging from diplomatic affairs, infrastructure, medical and public health, agriculture, environmental resilience, information and communication technology, to culture and education; AND WHEREAS, all bilateral cooperation projects between Belize and Taiwan, including road construction, motor vehicle registration and license system, breeding sheep and goat production, urban resilience and disaster prevention, medical imaging system, women empowerment, mandarin teaching and talent cultivation are currently proceeding smoothly; AND WHEREAS, the Honourable John Briceño, Prime Minister of Belize, and H.E. David Kuan-Chou Chien, former Ambassador of the Republic of China (Taiwan) to Belize, signed the Cooperation Agreement Regarding Construction of General Hospital for San Pedro Town, between the Government of Belize and the Government of the Republic of China (Taiwan), on 11 January 2023, for the health and wellness of the Belizean people; AND WHEREAS, Taiwan is a faithful ally and development partner to Belize, and the generosity and contribution Taiwan made to other countries has shown that Taiwan is an indispensable part of the global community, and Taiwan can play, and has played a critical role in the world; AND WHEREAS, Taiwan shows great courage and resilience in safeguarding its democracy and freedom in the face of provocative military activities from the People’s Republic of China (PRC), which pose a serious threat to global security; AND WHEREAS, Belize continuously extends unwavering support to Taiwan in safeguarding its democracy and freedom, as well as the self-determination for Taiwanese people, when Taiwan faces the military, political and economic coercion and the hegemonic threats from the People’s Republic of China (PRC); NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RE-

SOLVED that this Honourable House: Conveys its sincere welcome to H.E. Dr. Tsai Ing-wen, President of the Republic of China (Taiwan) and the delegation from Taiwan to visit Belize, to consolidate the diplomatic relations, partnership and friendship between the two countries; Extends its commitment to the strong and healthy diplomatic bond between Belize and Taiwan and the close bilateral cooperation in multiple areas; Reassure that the Governments of Belize and Taiwan will further deepen the diplomatic cooperation through the bilateral and multilateral channels of partnership, especially during Belize’s Presidency Pro-Tempore (PPT) of Central American Integration System (SICA) as Taiwan is an important extra-regional partner of SICA; Reaffirms to stand with the people and the Government of Taiwan in solidarity to secure Taiwan’s democracy, freedom, human rights and self-determination, so as to maintain peace, stability and prosperity across the Taiwan Strait and in the region; Calls on the international community to condemn any military threat, and other coercive actions that undermine Taiwan’s sovereign integrity, democracy, freedom, human rights and self-determination; and The House of Representatives and the Senate express their full support of Taiwan’s participation in ALL related international organizations, including the United Nations, the World Health Organization (WHO), the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), and the International Criminal Police Organization (INTERPOL); BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that a copy of this resolution be presented to President Tsai Ing-wen of the Republic of China (Taiwan) and to the office of the Prime Minister as a tangible token of the friendship expressed herein.

The Belize Times

Established 1957

14 APR 2013

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ISSUE NO: 4840

The Truth Shall Make You Free

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José Jiménez LAYOUT/GRAPHIC ARTIST

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Roberto Peyrefitte Printed and Published By TIMES NEWSPAPER LTD. Tel: 671-8385 #3 Queen Street P.O. BOX 506 Belize City, Belize Email: belizetimesadvertisement@yahoo.com

9 APR

THE BELIZE TIMES

2023

03 3

EDITORIAL

OPEN VS SECRET

O

ver the past two years, planBelize has been revitalizing Belize and ‘Open for Business’ became the clarion call from Belize to the world that Belize is a potent and growing investment hub. Belize speedily, in the usual turnaround time for economies, beat the odds and predictions set by most of the International Financing Institutions(IFIs). Belize overnight became the best practice extraordinaire for the world when it came to debt management and GDP growth. The world wanted to see Belize, the secret was out. The Tourist industry announced that Belize was back and more open than ever before. A quick search of ‘Belize Open for Business’ and ‘Mother Nature’s Best Kept Secret’ will yield hits galore. These two mantras were seemingly in cahoots and tandem for success.

The Belize Tourism Board has it that last year, 2022, Belize registered 370,524 overnight tourist arriv-als representing a 69.2% growth over the previous year. All indications with just the first two months in 2023 are that this will be eclipsed this year. As you peek over the economic horizon, Easter is here and to get a hotel room at the start of Holy Week will be met with apologies. If you tiptoe up, you will see Investment Summit 2023 on the 9-11th of August already chomping at the bits ready to showcase that 2023 is grander. Tourism measures itself in overnight stays and investment measures itself in For-eign Direct Investment. In 2022, FDI in millions of dollars went from approximately 256 to 261 and is projected to be higher in 2023. It is predicted to remain above 200 million each year up to 2027, more than a Billion in investment. Confidence in the Belizean product? The BTB has surely got the attention of Belize in every travel magazine available.

In the past month, the Music Concerts, Ruta Maya, Music Festival Pre-Fest Jam, Band Fest and other celebrations have confirmed the worse of UDP fears. PlanBelize has Belize overflowing with investor confidence, job opportunities, entrepreneurial growth, and MSME activity. Those at the helm of Tourism, and Investment surely are reading out of the same book as they are definitely in tandem with their success. Officially, the pandemic is lingering in the world yet also officially the bubbling economy of Belize is looking at that pandemic in the rearview mirror. What can Belizeans do to keep this success growing? Belizeans can keep getting themselves educated. They can keep upgrading their capacity to perform at a higher level. They can seek and keep employment. They can create a money-making venture.

Very crucial in this push to become an economic power in our own right is the advancement of women. Today, women's empowerment is highly visible everywhere in Belize in business, education, and, even, government. As politics is a bit different, women in politics have lots more ground to cover but it is only a matter of time. On the dais at the National Assembly for the Taiwanese Presidential visit there were three women at the fore in the lopsided male-dominated House. Speaker Valerie Woods noted to the packed building and the President that it was certainly the first time that three women had been in those three positions at one time. Specifically, women empowerment makes up the majority of registered MSMEs in Belize. The world is noticing.

Any chance that Belize is still Mother Nature’s secret is an allure in a marketing strategy that is seemingly still working. This Easter will be a financial bonanza for hotels, airlines, restaurants, car rentals and all entertainment-type businesses. Belize is truly open for Business in the truest sense of the word.

With increasingly more visitors flocking to our shores, Belize becomes a magnet for investment dollars.

This confidence is one that only the magic and marvel of planBelize can allow. Come to Belize! We are open for Business and during your break visit some of Mother Nature’s Best Kept Secrets.

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THE BELIZE TIMES

EDITORIAL

9 APR

2023

en Español

ABIERTO FRENTE A SECRETO

D

urante los dos últimos años, planBelice ha revitalizado Belice y "Open for Business" se ha convertido en el toque de clarín de Belice al mundo para demostrar que Belice es un centro de inversión potente y en crecimiento. Belice superó rápidamente, en el plazo habitual para las economías, los pronósticos y las predicciones de la mayoría de las instituciones financieras internacionales (IFI). De la noche a la mañana, Belice se convirtió en la mejor práctica del mundo en cuanto a la gestión de la deuda y crecimiento del PIB. El secreto estaba a la vista, e incluso la madre naturaleza había hecho todo lo posible, pero el turismo declaró que Belice había resucitado a principios de este año. Una búsqueda rápida de "Belize Open for Business" (Belice abierto a los negocios) y "Mother Nature's Best Kept Secret" (El secreto mejor guardado de la madre naturaleza) arrojará multitud de resultados. Parece que estos dos mantras se aliaron para lograr el éxito.

Según la Oficina de Turismo de Belice, el año pasado, 2022, Belice registró 370.524 llegadas de turistas que pernoctaron, lo que representa un crecimiento del 69,2% con respecto al año anterior. Todo indica que en los dos primeros meses de 2023 se superará esta cifra. Mientras se asoma al horizonte económico, la Semana Santa ya está aquí y conseguir una habitación de hotel al comienzo de la Semana Santa será recibido con disculpas. Si se pone de puntillas, verá que la Cumbre de la Inversión 2023 que se celebrará del 9 al 11 de agosto, ya está lista para demostrar que 2023 es más grande. El turismo se mide en pernoctaciones y la inversión se mide en Inversión Extranjera Directa. En 2022, la IED en millones de dólares pasó de aproximadamente 256 a 261 y se prevé que sea mayor en 2023. Se prevé que se mantenga por encima de los 200 millones cada año hasta 2027, más de mil millones en inversión. ¿Confianza en el producto beliceño? Sin duda, el BTB ha conseguido llamar la atención sobre Belice en todas las revistas de viajes disponibles.

En el pasado mes, los Conciertos de Música, Ruta Maya, el Festival Musical Pre-Fest Jam, Band Fest y otras celebraciones han confirmado lo peor de los temores de la UDP. PlanBelize tiene a Belice rebosante de confianza de los inversores, oportunidades de empleo, crecimiento empresarial y actividad de las MIPYME. Los responsables de Turismo e Inversión seguramente están leyendo el mismo libro, ya que su éxito es rotundo. Oficialmente, la pandemia persiste en el mundo, pero también oficialmente la economía burbujeante de Belice mira la pandemia por el retrovisor. ¿Qué pueden hacer los beliceños para que este éxito siga creciendo? Pueden seguir formándose. Pueden seguir mejorando su capacidad para rendir a un nivel superior. Pueden buscar y mantener un empleo. Pueden crear una empresa que genere dinero.

La promoción de la mujer es crucial para convertirnos en una potencia económica por derecho propio.

Hoy en día, la emancipación de la mujer es muy visible en todas partes en Belice, en los negocios, la educación e, incluso, el gobierno. Como la política es un poco diferente, las mujeres en la política tienen mucho más terreno que cubrir, pero es sólo cuestión de tiempo. En el estrado de la Asamblea Nacional para la visita presidencial de Taiwán había tres mujeres al frente de una Cámara dominada por hombres. La Presidenta de la Cámara, Valerie Woods, señaló ante un edificio abarrotado y ante el Presidente que, sin duda, era la primera vez que tres mujeres ocupaban esos tres puestos a la vez. En concreto, las mujeres constituyen la mayoría de las MIPYME registradas en Belice. El mundo se está dando cuenta.

Cualquier posibilidad de que Belice siga siendo el secreto de la Madre Naturaleza es un aliciente en una estrategia de marketing que parece seguir funcionando. Esta Semana Santa será una bonanza financiera para hoteles, aerolíneas, restaurantes, empresas de alquiler de coches y todo tipo de negocios de ocio. Belice está abierto a los negocios en el sentido más estricto de la palabra. Con cada vez más visitantes acudiendo a nuestras costas, Belice se convierte en un imán para los dólares de inversión. Una confianza que sólo la magia y la maravilla de planBelize pueden permitir. ¡Venga a Belice! Estamos abiertos a los negocios y durante su descanso visite algunos de los secretos mejor guardados de la madre naturaleza.

9 APR

2023

THE BELIZE TIMES

Governments of Belize and Taiwan Sign Technical Cooperation Framework Agreement

April 3, 2023 - Hon. Eamon H. Courtenay, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Trade and Immigration of Belize, and H.E. Jaushieh Joseph Wu, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of China (Taiwan), signed a Technical Cooperation Framework Agreement on April 3, which will serve to establish further cooperation programmes between Belize and Taiwan in areas such as agriculture, forestry, fisheries, technology, education, climate change, youth and women, health, tourism and other areas of mutual consent. The signing was witnessed by Hon. John Briceño, Prime Minister of Belize, and H.E. Dr. Tsai IngWen, President of the Republic of China (Taiwan).

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Taiwan Donates 5000 Laptops

During the ceremony, President Tsai presented Prime Minister Briceño with a donation of 5,000 laptops from Taiwanese manufacturers to assist Belize in improving learning resources for vulnerable groups such as children and women in rural areas.

Belize and Taiwan share long-standing bilateral relations spanning almost 34 years. The signing and handing-over ceremonies were part of activities organized during the State Visit of the President of the Republic of China (Taiwan) and her delegation.

This donation is in line with what the PUP calls social justice. People in the rural areas were named the most port in the multidimensional manner of assessing poverty. This donation will go a long way in lowering the percentage of Belizeans that are deemed poor. Education will be eased a bit.

Work is always there.

LIQUOR LICENSE NOTICES

Notice is hereby given that Leta S. Fuller is applying for a Malt & Cider Liquor License to be operated at “Westby Cool Spot” located in Hattieville Village, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Lester Young is applying for a Publican Special Liquor License to be operated at “Young’s Bar & Grill” located at Goff Caye, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

6 06

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9 APR

THE BELIZ 2023

9 APR

2023

07 7

THE BELIZE TIMES

Prime Minister of Belize

JOHN BRICEÑO REMARKS TO JOINT SESSION OF PARLIAMENT

State Visit April 3, 2023

Madam Speaker, Madam President of the Senate, Members of the House and Senate, Distinguished guests, Ladies and gentlemen, Good morning, It is truly my pleasure and honour on behalf of all Belizeans to welcome you, our dear friend, President Tsai Ing-wen, to the National Assembly, which is our people’s house. As we say in Spanish, mi casa es su casa, or in this case nuestra casa es tambien su casa -- our house is your house. At our last meeting, we approved the Resolution to Support Democratic Taiwan Motion, 2023, which called for our commitment to the strong and healthy diplomatic bond between Belize and Taiwan and the close bilateral cooperation in multiple areas.

Madam President for Belizeans this is a historic home. It was from the very steps you ascended that the Father of our Nation, George Price said on Independence Day in 1981 and I quote: “Belize is a people with all the attributes of nationhood having one flag, one government, one Constitution. Our mind imbues the democratic process. Our hand works the mixed economy. Our heart beats with social justice and our soul cherishes treasures of the spirit.”

Mr. Price also said on that historic day that “Belize will stand upright and will do its duty to help bring peace, stability, and prosperity to our region and the wider circles of our planet Earth.”

As a nation, we have lived by these principles, and we know you and the Taiwanese people believe and live these principles too. For the past 33 years, Belize and Taiwan have worked to improve the world and make it a better place to live.

Together we have worked for the advancement of democracy at home and abroad because our people, Belizean and Taiwanese, desire to live in peace with our neighbours near and far. We also share a deep appreciation for social, economic, and environmental justice and for this reason, no force or ocean will keep us from working together for the advancement of these just objectives. Taiwan and Belize are united in our desire to leave, for the next generation, a better world than the one we presently live in.

I know this because last October on Taiwan’s National Day, President Tsai told the Taiwanese people and I quote “the greatest duty for all of us living on this land is to do everything we can to give the next generation a better country, and to give the world a better Taiwan.” End of quote.

All the evidence shows that the Taiwanese people are benefiting from a strong and growing Taiwanese economy, an expanded social safety net, and greater opportunities for the marginalized people of Taiwan. The evidence shows that you are a nation of people who respect the rule of law and desire to live in peace on a cleaner and greener planet.

We have also seen that the Government and people of Taiwan have not just kept their prosperity for themselves, in fact, they have shared this prosperity with others, including us here in Belize. At present we enjoy strong and growing trade relations. Taiwan’s humanitarian and economic assistance has assisted in the advancement of our development agenda and Taiwan continues to invest in our future. Today, hundreds of Belizean students are in Taiwan studying and receiving a first-class tertiary and professional education. Among these are many talented young Belizean women who will surely return to Belize with a renewed and enriched spirit, believing that women should and can become maximum leaders of their country.

Your visit, Madam President, comes on the heels of the celebration of international women’s month highlighting the potential of women in leadership roles. As you have shared with us, so too you have shared with other nations. This is why we so desire to have Taiwan represented in world organisations like the United Nations, not only because the 23 million people who live in Taiwan deserve to be represented, but also so that together we can promote our shared values like democracy, the right of people’s to self-determination and respect for international law. Together, we can be a force in the fight against climate change, against all forms of inequality and discrimination, and promote greater peace and security.

This is a historic day because you Madam President have crossed oceans to come to our shore to celebrate these values, strengthen this partnership, and reaffirm our commitment to prosperity for our people. For this Belize welcomes you into our home with open arms.

Ladies and Gentlemen, it is my pleasure to invite Her Excellency the President of Taiwan, Tsai Ing-wen, to address us.

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9 APR

THE BELIZE TIMES

2023

President

Tsai Ing-wen

REMARKS TO JOINT SESSION OF PARLIAMENT

State Visit April 3, 2023

It is so wonderful to be in Belmopan again. I cannot believe it's been five years since we last saw one another. This is too long, in my opinion.

I want to begin my talk by thanking Prime Minister Briceño, Speaker Valerie Woods of the House of Representatives, and President Trench-Sandiford of the Senate for inviting me to speak at your National Assembly.

I have very fond memories of my last trip to Belize. I visited Taiwan Street, where our embassy stands. I also remember meeting aspiring young Belizeans, and was very happy to offer scholarships for their studies in Taiwan. I remember thinking, these bright minds would eventually serve as bridges for our friendship in our shared future. I also remember visiting the Museum of Belize, seeing the drawings of slave ships and hearing dreadful stories of the slave trade.

What our two countries share, is the strength and courage to rise from our challenging past, and make our present and future free, bright, and prosperous.

Therefore, I must tell you again, I am delighted to be back in your beautiful country.

I would really have loved to come to Belize earlier, however, most of us were grounded by the COVID-19 pandemic. And, as we work diligently to move toward the post-pandemic era, more challenges await us. For example, climate change, economic downturn, inflation, and most challenging of all, expansionist threats from authoritarian regimes.

The people of Taiwan face constant threats and pressure from the neighbor on the other side of the Taiwan Strait. While Taiwan's relationships with democracies around the world have grown stronger in recent years, we continue to be excluded from participating in international organizations, and serving as a productive member of the international community.

From international forums to meetings held by international organizations, such as the United Nations, WHO, ICAO, and under the UNFCCC, Belize has helped give voice to the 23 million people of Taiwan. I want to say thank you.

Not only that, Belize continues to be Taiwan's strongest and most powerful advocate for our international participation.

Moreover, last May, in this very chamber, your National Assembly members unanimously passed a motion to support Taiwan's participation in international organizations. And, a motion supporting democratic Taiwan was also passed a few days ago.

On behalf of the people of Taiwan, I want to take this opportunity to express our sincere gratitude to the government of Belize, and all the members of the House and the Senate. Your unwavering friendship and support mean so much to us.

Belize has accomplished quite a lot over its history. And as a grateful friend, Taiwan is honored to play a role in assisting Belize's national development, through projects on infrastructure, healthcare, agriculture, disaster management and prevention, information and communications technology, and education.

In fact, I am very pleased to note that, over the past two years, Taiwan and Belize have been able to step up our bilateral cooperation to help make everyday life here even more convenient.

For example, road upgrades will connect people from one region to another. We are also working together to bring clean water to rural areas. More importantly, in order to better the learning environment for Belize's next generation, we are supporting programs to provide nutritious food and internet access to schools.

In addition, an upgrade to provide more comprehensive healthcare facil-

ities on Belizean islands – the San Pedro General Hospital – will soon commence.

Our efforts do not stop here. Through our joint Women's Empowerment Project, Belizean women are able to receive vocational training and financial support to fulfil their entrepreneurial aspirations. To this date, the program has directly assisted over 700 women and benefited more than 2,000 people in Belize.

The ICDF Scholarship and the MOFA Taiwan Scholarship have also brought 500 Belizean students to Taiwan to attend schools. It is also my hope to welcome even more students to come study in Taiwan.

These projects, wide-ranging in scope, are testament to our close cooperation and substantive contributions to Belizean society.

As Belize's 10th largest trading partner, we look forward to opening up even more avenues for cooperation.

Since the Taiwan-Belize Economic Cooperation Agreement took effect last January, Belizean exports to Taiwan in 2022 increased to 317 percent of the amount in 2021, that is 3.24 million US dollars. One such example is Marie Sharp's hot sauce, which is already very popular in Taiwan, and also one of my personal favorites.

Steps are also being taken to realize the potential of Belize's seafood industry. A letter of intent was signed last year between companies from our two countries for the import of 2 million US dollars' worth of Belizean lobsters.

Our government is working to facilitate and accelerate the import of marine products from Belize, so that more delicious Belizean seafood can make it onto Taiwanese dinner tables.

And, as we speak, our Coffee and Cacao Mission is exploring opportunities for cooperation with your country.

Spurred on by the Taiwan-Belize Economic Cooperation Agreement, our economies can look forward to even closer engagement.

Even though our countries are thousands of miles apart, our connection is intimate and strong. We share some similar history, like emerging from colonial rule and rising above our challenging pasts. Now, we uphold the values of democracy and face the challenges to our existence without hesitation.

Both our countries' success is testament to what courage, hard work, determination, and diligence can achieve.

And, our relationship is built on genuine partnership between our governments, our people, and our businesses. My visits to Belize have solidified my confidence that our relationship will continue to stand strong for decades to come.

Let me conclude my address by reiterating what I said here five years ago, “the friendship between Taiwan and Belize is not built on empty promises or the political whims of our leadership.” This is a friendship that, for the past 34 years, has led to results that have benefitted people from both our countries.

While we recognize that there are countries that seek to insert a wedge into this friendship, we have remained close because of our common values and our shared vision for a more prosperous and peaceful future. We will also continue to work together to demonstrate that democracies help one another and we deliver.

Here, in the presence of true friends, please allow me to reaffirm Taiwan's steadfast commitment to our bilateral partnership.

I want to once again thank Prime Minister Briceño, Speaker Woods, President Trench-Sandiford, Leader of the Opposition Barrow, and all the members of the National Assembly for your hospitality and for inviting me to address you here today.

9 APR

THE BELIZE TIMES

2023

STATE DINNER

“friendship between the two countries will last forever” On the evening of the April 3, President Tsai Ing-wen attended the dinner hosted by Belize Prime Minister John Briceño. The highlight of the evening was the symbolic donation ceremony of San Pedro's Hospital. President Tsai Ing-wen said that these plans based on the solid partnership between the two countries are concrete examples of Taiwan's commitment to the development of Belize.

The President looks forward to more cooperation in the future, and congratulates Taiwan and Belize on "the friendship will last forever, and the friendship between the two countries will last forever.

After Tsai Ing-wen arrived, accompanied by Briceño, they walked into the banquet venue together. Afterwards, watch the video of Taiwan-British Bilateral Cooperation and the construction of San Pedro General Hospital, and witness the symbolic donation ceremony of the hospital model together with Briceño.

Tsai Ing-wen delivered a speech in English at the dinner and pointed out that I still remember when I received the visiting delegation of Prime Minister Briceño in Taipei last March, we discussed cooperation plans that could be promoted in Belize. "Now, I'm excited to be here and see our vision come to life."

She said that San Pedro General Hospital is the best example. We signed a memorandum of understanding on the cooperation agreement on the construction of the hospital in January this year.

We hope that this hospital can meet the needs of residents and tourists in the tourist resort of Belize who want convenient and comprehensive medical care. service needs. This afternoon, we also visited the breeding sheep production project and saw how the Taipei technical cooperation cultivated agricultural expertise.

Tsai Ing-wen said that these projects, based on the solid partnership between the peoples, institutions, businesses and governments of the two countries, are concrete examples of Taiwan's commitment to the development of Belize, and

we look forward to more cooperation in the future. Our trip in Belize was fruitful, she said. Earlier, she had the opportunity to exchange views on bilateral relations with Prime Minister Briceño and other government officials, and she was also very honored to deliver a speech to the Parliament of Benin, explaining the firm and stable partnership between the two countries. At the same time, she also received a resolution from the House of Representatives reaffirming support for Taiwan and the sincere friendship between the two countries.

Tsai Ing-wen emphasized that after a busy day, everyone is very much looking forward to the delicacies in Belize tonight. We all know that Taiwanese love food. She then invited the attendees to raise their glasses together, paying tribute to Prime Minister Briceño and his wife, congratulating the everlasting friendship between Taiwan and Belize, and the eternal friendship between the two countries!

San Pedro General Hospital is located in the most famous tourist destination—San Pedro, which attracts a large number of international tourists every year. However, the location is located on an outlying island, and medical resources are insufficient, so residents or tourists with medical needs need to travel long distances to seek medical treatment.

During Briceño visit to Taiwan last March, he approached us to build a general hospital there, and the government agreed to provide assistance, and designated our project builder, Overseas Engineering Corporation (OECC), to undertake the construction. On January 11 this year, the then ambassadors Qian Guangzhou and Eamon Courtenay signed a cooperation agreement on behalf of the two governments. Currently, the OECC and the Belizean government are negotiating on design-related planning and other aspects, and construction will be carried out accordingly.(Chinatimes.com)

CONSULTATION:

With Chinese Merchants on Cost of Living GoB To Effect Measures To Combat Price Gouging

Tuesday April 4,2023, the Prime Minister of Belize Honorable John Briceño and the President of Mexico met in a virtual session to engage in discussions regarding inflation and price gouging as a part of the meeting.

The global factors explain much of the reasons for the inflationary pressures being felt across the globe and in small developing countries like Belize. However, shrewd business merchants have increased some of their prices over and above their costs. Price gouging and profiteering have also been responsible for driving inflation and cost of living through the roof. Growing business costs make up the majority of the current prices of goods on the shelves, hence businesses are passing on these increases in costs onto their customers.

Seemingly, everyday consumers are being punished for what is essentially ‘greedflation’. Economist Jim Stanford, from the Center for Future Work proffered that" there is no doubt

that corporations have taken advantage of the supply chain problems and the desperation of consumers to jack-up prices far more than required to cover their own costs, and their record profits this inflation far worse."

The People’s United Party Government led by Prime Minister John Briceño has heard and listened to the cries of the masses regarding the steep rise in cost of living. The Government has been making some policy changes to combat inflation/cost of living/price gouging.

A ticketing system with penalties was legislated for as one of the measures on price gouging and the effects on the consumer.

On Friday March 31, 2023, the Belize Chinese Association, led by Johnston Ou, President met in a closed-door meeting with ministers of government at Charter House, the Office of the Prime Minister to engage on the matter of price gouging. The discussions were fruitful and productive in the addressing of the concerns raised by the Belizean

09 9

SUCCESSFUL CONSULTATION EASES CONCERNS ON THE NPO BILL On March 10, 2023, In order paper No. HR151/1/13 - Report from the Finance and Economic Development Committee on the Money Laundering and Terrorism (Prevention) (Amendment) Bill, 2023. This is for Bill for an Act to amend the Money Laundering and Terrorism (Prevention) Act, Chapter 104 of the Substantive Laws of Belize, Revised Edition 2020; to satisfy the requirements of the Financial Action Task Force Recommendations with respect to laws regarding national anti-money laundering, combatting the financing of terrorism and combatting proliferation financing.

The Belize Network of NGOs is currently in consultation with the government of Belize and other stakeholders. This act would affect those who actively seek to run or participate in a non-profit organization within Belize. The ACT would be a separate legislation as no amends would be made to the NGO Act as it is now.

This ACT would provide for the regulation of Non-Profit Organisations; to protect Non-Profit Organisations from terrorist financing abuse; to satisfy the requirements of the Financial Action Task Force Recommendations with respect to laws regarding combating the financing of terrorism; and to provide for matters connected therewith or incidental thereto.

Hon. Henry Charles Usher, Minister of the Public Service, Constitutional and Political Reform stated, “The issue is that this is a package of bills that have to be introduced and have to be passed, in order for the next run of certification that is happening for Belize, I believe that’s going to be in December of this year. And there are different legislations that are required to be passed. This is just one of them. It’s not anything, too difficult. And I’m sure that, with some discussions that the parts of the will can be explained.”

There was a meeting held by the Social Partners Advisory Committee to discuss the NPO Bill. It was a very cordial and instructive meeting. Acting Director of FIU Mrs. Leni Ysaguirre McGann gave an overview of the Financial Action Task Force 3rd round review which happened in 2011 and the recommendations and follow-ups that were needed. As usual, the Barrow Administration ignored and now as the 4th round review is this year a slew of legislation is needed to be compliant. Unlike the 3rd round which focused on Technical Compliance this 4th round will also look at Effective Implementation. So just having the law on the books is not enough. Belize must show it is implementing the law. Following the overview, the discussion was on specific areas that the NGO community in particular had concerns. Recommendations for amendments were made and a new draft should be circulated shortly before the next Senate Meeting.

Minister Usher was also quoted previously as stating, “This is something that the FIU and different organizations have been approaching, the NGOs and the non-profit organizations on. The bill was prepared by the Attorney General’s Ministry. They will have an opportunity when it goes to the house committee and they will also have an opportunity in the Senate. They have a representation in the Senate.”

society and also that of the merchant class. President Ou, whilst holding some reservations on the ticketing system, stating what he considered grey areas, where reasonable price point price for an item ends and where price gouging begins. A similar sentiment of Lennox Nicolson who said that "what we need to do as enforcement agency is to be able to to distinguish where imported inflation ends and gouging starts."

Members of the Supplies Control Unit produced several bags of groceries from different stores to punctuate the reasons that make price gouging an issue. The findings of the inspection were explained to contextualize where the price gouging exists. Nicholson further explained the need to map through the entire distribution chain and to identify exactly where the problem exists. Nicholson said there is enough adminis-

trative records to rely upon for proof.

He said Belizean don't want to hear about the lack of public officers in addressing the issue. The public simply wants GOB to get the job done.

This is exactly what the PUP Government led by John Briceño is seeking to do - GET THE JOB DONE! As a responsible Leader and a man with a conscience and with a heart beating with social justice, Briceño continues to attend to the needs of his people.

Interestingly, the PM continues seek solutions to the problems facing the nation and inflation, cost of living and price gouging is just another one.

With PlanBelize as the Northstar, the PUP Government and Prime Minister Honorable John Briceño trods on to the halcyon days of yesteryear under the great Peoples United Party. Adelante! By Hilly Bennett

10

THE BELIZE TIMES

9 APR

2023

FEB 95 APR

258 11

5 FEB THE BELIZE 2023 TIMES

2023

THE BELIZ

GOVERNMENT OF BELIZE BELIZE SOCIAL INVESTMENT FUND (BSIF) CONSULTANCY SERVICES FOR MONITORING AND EVALUATION SPECIALIST

Invitation for Bids Belize Water Services Limited Belize GRT/CF-19538-BL & GRT/MA-19539-BL Advancing Water Disinfection in Urban & Rural Areas International Competitive Bidding (ICB) BWSL/BIF-27-2205 1.

2.

The Government of Belize has received financing from the Inter-American Development Bank toward the cost of the project “Advancing Water Disinfection in Urban & Rural Areas GRT/CF19538-BL and GRT/MA-19539-BL”, and intends to apply the proceeds of this financing to payments under the Contract for the “supply, installation and commissioning of OSG Disinfection Equipment”.

Belize Water Services Limited now invites sealed bids from eligible and qualified bidders for the: a) b) c)

3.

4.

Supply, install & commission of OSG Disinfection Equipment for Caye Caulker Village- Lot A Supply, install & commission of OSG Disinfection Equipment for San Marcos Village- Lot B Supply, install & commission of OSG Disinfection Equipment& Filtration System for Crooked Tree Village - Lot C.

Bidding will be conducted through the International Competitive Bidding (ICB) procedures specified in the Inter-American Development Bank’s Policies for the Procurement of Goods and Works financed by the Inter-American Development Bank, and is open to all bidders from Eligible Source Countries as defined in the Policies.

Interested eligible bidders may obtain an e-copy of bidding document by making a request to the below: Ervin Flores, Resident Consultant Engineer Belize Water Services Ltd. 7 Central American Blvd.

Belize City, Belize.

Email: rce@bwsl.com.bz

5.

Bids must be delivered to the address below at or before 2:00 pm, 18th May, 2023. Electronic bidding shall not be permitted. Late bids will be rejected. Bids will be opened physically in the presence of the bidders’ representatives who choose to attend in person at the address below at 2:15 pm on 18th May, 2023.

6.

All bids to be accompanied by a Bid Security, as specified in the bidding document and must be delivered to the address below by 2:00 pm local time on 18th May, 2023.

7.

The address referred to above is: Attention: Ervin Flores, Resident Consultant Engineer Belize Water Services Limited 7 Central American Blvd.

Belize City Belize

REQUEST FOR EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST (REOI)

The Government of Belize (GOB) has received financing from the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) towards implementing the Belize Social Investment Fund Loan III and the Basic Needs Trust Fund Tenth Programme and intends to apply a portion of the proceeds of this financing to eligible payments under a contract for which this invitation is issued. Payments by CDB will be made only at the request of GOB and upon approval by CDB, and will be subject in all respects to the terms and conditions of the Financing Agreement. The Financing Agreement prohibits withdrawal from the financing account for the purpose of any payment to persons or entities, or 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 VII of the Charter of the United Nations. No party other than GOB shall derive any rights from the Financing Agreement or have any claim to the proceeds of the Financing.

The Belize Social Investment Fund (BSIF) the Executing Agency, now wishes to procure consultancy services for Monitoring and Evaluation Specialist.

The objective of the consultancy is to provide Monitoring and Evaluation Services to BSIF. The Consultant will be responsible for the development (including collection of baseline data), management, and implementation of a quality M&E system for the Programmes, Projects and the sub-projects that are implemented by BSIF. The duration of the assignment is expected to be a period of two (2) years, extendable by mutual agreement in accordance with prevailing Belize legislation as well as results of his/her performance appraisal.

Further details can be found in the Terms of Reference, which can be obtained from Address 1 below.

BSIF now invites interested eligible individual consultants to submit Expressions of Interest indicating qualifications and experience required to provide these consultancy services.

Consultants shall be eligible to participate if:

(a)

the persons are citizens or bona fide residents of an eligible country; and

(b)

in all cases, the consultant has no arrangement and undertakes not to make any arrangements, whereby any substantial part of the net profits or other tangible benefits of the contract will accrue or be paid to a person not a citizen or bona fide resident of an eligible country.

Eligible countries are member countries of CDB. Consultants are advised to review the detailed eligibility criteria detailed in Section 4 and conflict of interest provisions in Section 5 of the Procurement Procedures for Projects Financed by CDB (January, 2021), as published on CDB’s website.

In the assessment of submissions, consideration will be given to qualifications, experience on similar assignments and interview questions.

All information must be submitted in English. Further information may be obtained from the first address below between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. (Belize Time) hours Monday to Friday.

The Expressions of Interest must be received electronically at the first address (BSIF) and second (CDB) below no later than Tuesday 2nd May 2023 at 10:00 a.m.

(Belize Time). The subject line of the email containing each submission shall be clearly marked “Expression of Interest – Consultancy Services for Monitoring and Evaluation Specialist for BSIF”.

Following the assessment of submissions, the most technically capable and appropriately experienced applicant will be invited to negotiate a contract to provide the consultancy services. GOBZ reserves the right to accept or reject late applications or to cancel the present invitation partially or in its entirety. It will not be bound to assign any reason for not engaging the services of any applicant and will not defray any costs incurred by any applicant in the preparation and submission of Expressions of Interest.

Addresses: 1.Senior Procurement Officer Social Investment Fund 3rd Floor, #1902 Constitution Drive Belmopan BELIZE Tel: (501)822-0239 ; Fax. (501) 822-0279 E-mail: submissions@sifbelize.org cc: angeles.itzab@sifbelize.org

2.Procurement Officer Caribbean Development Bank P.O. Box 408 Wildey St. Michael BARBADOS, W.I. Tel. (246) 539-1600 Email: procurement@caribank.org cc: omar.bispat@caribank.org

12 2023 5 FEB

261 2023 9 APR

THE BELIZE TIMES

COUNTRYWIDE PUBLIC AUCTION SALES: PROPERTIES

San Pedro, Ambergris Caye; Belize District; Little Belize Settlement, Corozal Town, Corozal District; August Pine Ridge Village, Orange Walk Town; Hattieville, Potts Creek/Salt Creek,Belize District; Georgeville Village, Cayo District; Dangriga, Stann Creek District; Bella Vista Village, Toledo District

BY ORDER of the Mortgagees Messrs. Atlantic Bank Limited, Licensed Auctioneers Kevin A. Castillo and Christiana R. Castillo are selling ONLINE via belizepropertyauctions.com the following properties. Sales currently running until31st May 2023. Public Auction Sales will expire fortnightly on the dates and times listed on the website until these properties are sold.

A: San Pedro, Ambergris Caye, Belize District: 1. Laguna De San Pedro Zone, San Pedro Town, Ambergris Caye, Belize District:

REGISTRATION SECTION

BLOCK

PARCEL

San Pedro

7

4093, 4094, 4095, 4872, 4873, 4874

properties of Messrs. Casa Katerina Limited.

3. Lots Nos. 43 & 44 Fred Hunter’s Subdivision, Mile 13 Phillip Goldson Highway, Belize District: ALL THOSE pieces or parcels of land being Lots Nos. 43 and 44 situate Southwest of the Phillip Goldson Highway at Mile 13, Belize District, Belize being a portion of land comprised in Minister’s Fiat Grant No. 15 of 1989 date 23rd Feb uary 1989 TOGETHER with all buildings and erections standing and being thereon. (Being 2 vacant lots situate in the Fred Hunter Subdivision near Mile 13 on the Northern Highway, South of Los Largos in the Belize District, the freehold properties of Mr. Gildardo Cardona and Mrs. Rocio Aguilar Cardona)

2 . Parcel No. 6824 Colonia Diego, San Pedro Ambergris Caye, Belize District:

REGISTRATION SECTION

BLOCK

PARCEL

San Pedro

7

6824

4. Lot No. 307 Hattieville Village, Belize District: ALL THAT piece or parcel of land being Lot No. 307 situated at Belizean American Site near Mile 17 ½ South of George Price Highway, Hattieville Village, Belize District comprising 613.44 square meters TOGETHER with all buildings and erections standing and being thereon. (Freehold property of Mr. Sean Delroy Nicholas)

Freehold property of Mr. Pablo Sosa

E: CAYO DISTRICT:

3. Parcel No. 2601 San Pedro Ambergris Caye, Belize District:

REGISTRATION SECTION

BLOCK

PARCEL

San Pedro

7

2601

1. Lot No. 193 Georgeville Village, Cayo District: ALL THAT piece or parcel of vacant land being Lot No. 193 Minister's Fiat 606 of 2013 o f Georgeville Village, Cayo District, comprising of 1026.481 Square Meters, TOGETHER with all buildings and erection standing and being thereon. (Freehold property of Ms. Tanesha Salazar)

Freehold property of Mr. Pablo Sosa

B: COROZAL DISTRICT: 1. Parcel No. 799 Waree Bight Area, near Little Belize, Corozal District:

REGISTRATION SECTION

BLOCK

PARCEL

Waree Bight/Freshwater Creek

3

799

Freehold property of Mr. David Neufeld of Little Belize Corn Mill.

F: STANN CREEK DISTRICT 1. Parcel Nos. 440 Dangriga, Stann Creek District:

REGISTRATION SECTION

BLOCK

PARCEL

Dangriga South

31

44

Freehold property of Messrs. Dangriga Cable Vision. 0

2. Parcel No. 929 8th Avenue, Corozal Town, Corozal District:

REGISTRATION SECTION

BLOCK

PARCEL

Corozal Central

1

929

Freehold property of Mr. Abraham Nicholson

C: ORANGE WALK DISTRICT: 1. Parcel No. 1124 August Pine Ridge Village, Orange Walk District:

REGISTRATION SECTION

BLOCK

PARCEL

August Pine Ridge

9

1124

2. Parcel Nos. 618 Dangriga, Stann Creek District:

REGISTRATION SECTION

BLOCK

PARCEL

Dangriga South

31

61

Freehold property of Messrs. Dangriga Cable Vision. 8

G: TOLEDO DISTRICT:

Freehold property of Mr. Jacob Freisen.

1. Lot No. 2 Bella Vista Village, Toledo District:

D. BELIZE DISTRICT: 1. 995 Acres situate at Intersection Potts Creek Road & Western Boundary of Salt Creek Work, Belize District: ALL THAT lot piece or parcel of land containing 995 acres situated on the intersection of Potts Creek Road and the western boundary of Salt Creek Work TOGETHER with all buildings and erections standing and being thereon. (Freehold property of Messrs. Smuggler’s Run Holdings Limited)

2. 5 Acres situate at Junction Potts Creek Road & north bank Potts Creek, Belize District: ALL THAT lot piece or parcel of land containing 5 acres situate at the junction Potts Creek Road and the north bank of Potts Creek TOGETHER with all buildings and erections standing and being thereon.

(Freehold property of Messrs. Smuggler’s Run Holdings Limited)

All That piece or parcel of land known as Lot #2 located in Bella Vista Village, Stann Creek District compromising 445.892 square meters Together with all buildings and erections standing and being thereon.

(Freehold property of Mr. Robert Andrew August and Ms. Roselia E Lizama)

“FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION & PHOTOGRAPHS PLEASE VISIT WEBSITE”

TERMS: STRICTLY CASH KEVIN A. CASTILLO TELEPHONE: 223 4488 Email: kevinacas@yahoo.com Face Book: Belize Auctions

9 APR

THE BELIZE TIMES

2023

Her Excellency Rossana Briceño

Special Envoy for the Development of Families & Children Exhibition of Achievements

Women Empowerment Project (Taiwan) April 4, 2023

President Tsai Ing-Wen, Secretary General Lin, Foreign Minister Wu, Minister Dolores Balderamos-Garcia, Ambassadors, Excellencies, Government Officials, Distinguished Guests, Ladies, and Gentlemen, It is a pleasure to welcome you to today’s event and to thank you for supporting women’s empowerment and the fight for gender equity. It is clear that promoting and protecting Women’s Rights is a critical objective that our two nations share.

The Republic of China (Taiwan) has been at the forefront of women's empowerment, and we applaud the efforts of the Taiwanese government and its people in advocating gender equality.

Taiwan has made remarkable progress in ensuring that women are represented in all sectors of society, including in government, education, and business.

In addition, Taiwan has been committed to supporting the development of Latin American and Caribbean countries. Belize’s experience was shared along with the experience of other allied countries in the Empower Women! Empower LAC! Forum which was held on February 15 of this year in Taipei. Taiwan has always valued our relationship with this region, and we have made great strides in working together to promote shared prosperity and development.

In Belize, we are appreciative of partnering with Taiwan as this has given us the opportunity to provide training, tech-

nical assistance, and resources to support the empowerment of women and girls through Taiwan’s International Cooperation and Development Fund.

Thanks to this friendship and partnership, many women entrepreneurs countrywide have benefited through the project entitled “Enhancing the Economic Empowerment of Women in Belize in the COVID-19 Post-Pandemic Era. Technical Assistance for Women's Employment, Entrepreneurship, and Financial Inclusion”.

Through this project, the Government of Taiwan is supporting Belize’s response and recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic’s impact on economic growth and sustainability. It is well known that the pandemic affected many Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises, especially women-owned businesses which represent 66% of all businesses operating in Belize. This is why women's empower-

ment is not only the right thing to do but it is also good for business; it is a win-win situation for everyone involved.

The Women Empowerment Project promotes women’s entrepreneurship and social inclusion through financial and technical collaborations with relevant national institutions and Taiwanese experts.

Many women-led businesses and projects aiming to promote women’s empowerment have benefited from extensive professional and vocational training, business incubation programs, financial relief counseling, and a national network for MSME support.

Some of these women-led businesses are: Alejo’s Golden Plantain Chips, Elisa’s Fabric, C’s Ingenious Creations, E’s Closet, Lasting Impression, Dude Car Wash, House of Gains Gym, Angel Wings, ZZ’s Pizzeria, Oshanz Detox, Jayla’s Tutus, and Yessi’s Cuisine, which represented us at the Empower LAC! Forum.

This project, in collaboration with BELTRAIDE, has also benefited 5 women-led seaweed businesses in Placencia: Seaweed, Powa Productions, Fruitful Belize, Sea Gold Essentials, and Mother Nature Enterprise. Seaweed farming provides a source of income and food to coastal communities while simultaneously benefitting the ecosystem by absorbing carbon dioxide emissions.

This makes the seaweed business sustainable and an excellent tool in the fight against climate change.

13 The investment and cooperation by Taiwan in women's empowerment have led to the creation of more opportunities for women in the workforce, and in turn, this has led to economic growth and prosperity in Belize. These gains have been significant, and they can be reflected in the growth of our music industry. With this project, Taiwan has also supported 5 talented women musicians: Mellonie Gillet, Jackie Castillo, Ms. HoneyDee, Denise Castillo, and Chanelle Parks.

The beneficiaries that I have just mentioned are just a few of the many women that have benefited from the Women Empowerment Project. We are truly grateful for Taiwan’s support and partnership.

I would like to take this opportunity to reaffirm Belize's allegiance to our strong partnership with Taiwan. Our two countries share many common values, including a deep commitment to freedom and democracy, human rights, and women’s empowerment. We also share a vision of a peaceful and prosperous nation, and we stand ready to work with our esteemed partner and ally, Taiwan, to identify new areas of cooperation to achieve this vision.

We are honored to have President Tsai here with us today, and we look forward to hearing her thoughts on how we can work together to further promote women's empowerment and women-owned businesses.

I am confident that the friendship and cooperation between our two countries will continue to thrive in the years ahead. I would like to express my deepest gratitude to President Tsai and the people of Taiwan for their generosity and kindness.

Once again, I would like to extend a warm welcome to everyone, and thank you for being part of this memorable event.

14

9 APR

THE BELIZE TIMES

2023

Visit of President of the Republic of China (Taiwan)

Dr. Tsai Ing-Wen

Arrival & Welcome by Governor General Tzalam with military salute

PM Briceño addresses Joint Session of the House

President Tsai addresses the Representatives and Senators

President Tsai gifting laptops for most in need

Official Support for Taiwan’s Sovereignty

Foreign Ministers Signing Technical Cooperation Framework Agreement

Speaker Valerie Woods, President Tsai and Senate President Trench-Sandiford

PM offering gift

Government side of the House Meeting with Cabinet

9 APR

2023

THE BELIZE TIMES

15

16

9 APR

THE BELIZE TIMES

2023

6 Reasons You Should Add This Central American Country To Your Travel Plans This Year

By Marci Rivera With so many diverse places to choose from in Central America, it’s likely that the majority of travelers head for popular destinations such as Costa Rica and Guatemala, and with good reason.

Central and Latin America are full of diverse countries that overflow with natural beauty, and choosing between them can be a tough call.

While all these places definitely deserve a place on any traveler’s wish list, there are some Central American countries that tend to get overlooked by visitors, and here is where you can often find the undercover gems.

One such place is Belize – which is in no way a secret – but is, however, a country that hasn’t traditionally gotten as much traveler attention as it should, although this is changing and the country is becoming more and more popular with tourists.

In fact, 2022 saw Belize being named one of the top destinations of the year, and CNN Travel listed Belize as one of the 23 destinations to visit in 2023.

You can find the small tropical country of Belize nestled between Mexico and Guatemala.

The country is full of postcard-perfect beaches, colorful towns, ancient Mayan ruins, dense rain forests, and, not to mention, so much natural beauty both on land as well as offshore.

Easily Accessible While you might feel as if you are worlds away from most American cities, technically speaking, you are only a short 3-4 hour flight from most of the U.S. and Canada.

Belize City is well connected to many American airports, making this lush destination an easy flight compared to some other tropical places further south or over in Southeast Asia.

Recently airlines have been adding Belize City to their routes from major Canadian cities as well, meaning there are more options and better fares than before.

Southwest, United, and American Airlines are popular options from the U.S., while WestJet and Air Canada of-

fer options from Canada.

Not to mention that Belize is easily reachable from Mexico’s Uber-popular Yucatán Peninsula, and bus connections make this addon an option for any Cancun area trip.

It also offers a bit of a different vibe for those looking to avoid the crowds and nightclubs of the ever-popular hotspots along 5 FEBCaribbean coast, although Mexico’s there is possibly no escape from the

2023

seaweed.

It’s best to check the local reports for that, as the record sargassum that has been plaguing the Mexican coast might be an issue here as well, depending on the current conditions.

Sustainability Many reports have indicated that sustainable travel is a big trend for this year, and travelers are making more of their holiday choices based on the economic impact of their

trip.

Those who are attempting to make strides in this area will be happy to know that Belize is too.

The country’s new Tourism Minister has stated that Belize is dedicated to becoming a low-impact/value destination for visitors.

The country recently publicity committed to protecting 30% of its ocean territory, and many are hailing Belize as a conservation success story for this and the many other initiatives taken thus far.

No Language Barrier This may or may not be a reason for some people, but Belize is technically the only English-speaking country in all of Central America.

Being a county that is as diverse Continued on page 18

THE BELIZE TIMES

PROJECT ANALYST

The Central Bank invites qualified individuals to join its Office of Strategy Management.

The Project Analyst will provide direct or indirect project management services in the application of the Central Bank of Belize’s Project Management (PM) methodology and effective use of PM and Change Management (CM) tools. The Project Analyst will perform direct services when assigned to a project in the role of project manager. Indirect services include supporting other project managers and teams to enhance their capability to successfully implement projects and contribute to the achievement of the Central Bank’s strategic objectives.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

▪

Supports the Office of Strategy Management in the promotion of PM and CM best practices, methodology, standards, and tools in the execution of the Central Bank’s projects.

▪

Applies the change management process and tools to support the adoption of the changes required by a project or initiative.

▪ ▪

Assists in training, mentoring, and guiding project team members throughout the project life cycle.

▪ ▪ ▪ ▪

Assists in preparing project budgets and developing resource requirements.

Assists in identifying and utilizing of technology-based tools, especially Microsoft Project to facilitate project support and continuous development of project management skills.

Reviews and reports on the project portfolio’s performance, budget, and finances.

Develops Service Level Agreements for indirect and direct project management services.

Performs other related work required to ensure successful implementation of projects.

The applicants should possess the following: Education and Experience

▪

A master’s degree in project management, management information systems, business management, or a related field from a recognized university, with two (2) years of experience in managing business-related projects. Knowledge and proficiency in project management software, preferably, Microsoft Project, or

▪

A minimum of a bachelor’s degree in project management, management information systems, business management, or a related field from a recognized university, with four (4) years of experience in managing business-related projects. Knowledge and proficiency in project management software, preferably, Microsoft Project.

Technical Knowledge ▪ Knowledge of Microsoft Project: Knowledge of Change Management tools and techniques; Knowledge of the strategic management approach; Excellent research and presentation skills; Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite.

Competencies ▪ Strong Communication Skills; Diagnostic Information Gathering; Analytical Thinking; Results Orientation; Initiative; Thoroughness; Flexibility, Fostering Teamwork; Performance Management; Building Collaborative Relationships; Managing Change; Self-Confidence; Organizational Awareness.

Submit the following documents by Wednesday, 12 April 2023:

▪ ▪ ▪ ▪

CBB Employment Application Form (Available online) Curriculum Vitae Three (3) current references (one must be from a previous employer) Certified copies of university transcripts, degrees, and any other personal certificates Applications should be addressed to: Manager, Human Resources Department Central Bank of Belize P O Box 852 or Gabourel Lane Belize City, BELIZE Ref: Project Analyst – Office of Strategy Management Email: hr@centralbank.org.bz or online at www.centralbank.org.bz (All applications will be held in strict confidence.)

FEB 95 APR

THE BELIZE 2020 TIMES

2023

The Pan American Health Organization/World Health Organization (PAHO/WHO) invites applicants for the functions of National Consultant to support the Communications and Visibility, Road Crashes Project Belize City

Beach Front Condo, Las Terrazas Resort, San Pedro, Ambergris Caye , Belize DistrictCaye, Belize District

BY ORDER of the Supreme Court of Belize, Licensed Auctioneer Kevin A. Castillo is selling ONLINE via belizepropertyauctions.com the following property. Sale currently running until 31st May 2023. Within this period, a Public Auction Sale will expire fortnightly on the dates and times listed on the website until this property is sold.

1. BEACH FRONT UNIT NO. 105 LAS TERRAZAS RESORT, SAN PEDRO, AMBERGRIS CAYE, BELIZE

Qualifications: Essential: A bachelor’s degree in communication Experience:

THE BELIZ

COUNTRYWIDE PUBLIC AUCTION SALES: PROPERTIES

VACANCY ANNOUNCEMENT

Duty station:

256 17

25 SEP

Essential: At least three years of relevant experience in communications and promotion

Skills: • Experience in developing and implementing communications plans.

• Experience in writing scripts, storyboards, video production, design, and layout of documents, print materials, web content and developing other communication material, • Familiarity with taking and/or editing digital photographs or videos, • Knowledge of using social media platforms such as Facebook and Twitter.

• Experience in the field of mental health and psychosocial support.

• Strong public health and strategic thinking background showing resourcefulness, initiative, leadership qualities and skills to deal with difficult situations and sensitive areas.

• Ability to work collaboratively (in person or virtually) with other team members.

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills and sensitivity to political and cultural issues • Ability to meet deadlines.

• Demonstrated ability to effectively use a computer and utilize software programs such as Microsoft Office Word, Excel, PowerPoint, SharePoint, and Outlook.

• Familiarity with editing tools (Adobe photoshop, Adobe Premier Pro, other graphic design programs or video editing tools) Languages:

Very good knowledge of English and working knowledge of Spanish

Deadline:

Letter of application, Curriculum Vitae, and two current letters of recommendation should be sent to blzmail@paho.org or to P.O. Box 1834, Belize City no later than April 14, 2023

For further details visit our website https://www.paho.org/en/vacancies An interview will be held for this position and only candidates under serious consideration will be contacted.

PAHO/WHO has a smoke-free environment and does not recruit smokers or users of any form of tobacco.

5 FEB

REGISTRATION SECTION

BLOCK

PARCEL

San Pedro

7

5437 H 5

The freehold property of Mr. David A. Title and Ms. Paula Tatiana Cortes Londono

(Being BEACH FRONT Unit No. 105, a two-storey beach front condo [2,465 sq. ft.] containing Ground floor – 1 Bedroom + 1 Bathroom + Living/Dining/Kitchen + Laundry + Large External Porch; First Floor – Master Bedroom + Bathroom + Queen Bedroom + Bathroom + Terrace situate at Las Terrazas Resort, San Pedro, Ambergris Caye, Belize District, the freehold property of Mr. David A. Title and Ms. Paula Tatiana Cortes Londono) “FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION & PHOTOGRAPHS PLEASE VISIT WEBSITE” TERMS: STRICTLY CASH KEVIN A. CASTILLO TELEPHONE: 223-4488

THE BELIZE TIMES

2023

259

Website: belizepropertyauctions.com Email: kevinacas@yahoo.com Facebook: Belize Auctions

www.centralbank.org.bz www.centralbank.org.bz www.centralbank.org.bz

www.centralbank.or www.centralbank.org.bz

PRESS RELEASE PRESS RELEASE PRESS RELEASE

PRESS RELEA PRESS RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

ParaIMMEDIATE Publicación Inmediata FOR RELEASE

Update on St. Francis Xavier Credit Union Limited Update onSt. St. Francis Xavier Credit Update on Francis Xavier Credit UnionUnion LimitedLimited

Actualizacion sobre St. Francis XavierUnion Credit Union Limited Update on St. Francis Xavier Credit Limited

Belize City, 04 April 2023: The Governor of the Central Bank of Belize, in his capacity as Registrar of April Credit Unions (the Registrar), theCentral members of St. of Francis Xavier Belize City,04 04 April 2023: Governor ofupdates theofCentral Bank ofBank Belize, inBelize, his capacity Belize City, 2023:The The Governor the in his capacity Union Limited (SFXCU) andRegistrar), the public that the to Francis SFXCU, Mr. as Credit Registrar Credit Unions (the Registrar), updates theAdministrator members of St. as Registrar ofofCredit Unions (the updates the members of St.Xavier Francis Xavier Martin Marshalleck, has reported that the operations ofAdministrator the union continue safely and Mr. Credit Union Limited (SFXCU) and thethe public that the to SFXCU, Credit Union Limited (SFXCU) and public that thecredit Administrator to Mr. SFXCU, without disruption.has Martin Marshalleck, thatthat the the operations of the of credit and safely and Martin Marshalleck, hasreported reported operations theunion creditcontinue union safely continue without disruption. without Thedisruption.

Administrator has met with staff, some members, and other stakeholders, to provide updates and respond and concerns.

The process of establishing the to requisite The Administrator has to metqueries some members, and other provide The Administrator has metwith withstaff, staff, some members, andstakeholders, other stakeholders, to provide governance framework to protect the equitiesThe of members begun. Importantly, the updates and respond to queries and concerns. process ofhas establishing the requisite updates and respond to queries and concerns.

The process of establishing the requisite Administrator has commenced weekly reporting to the Registrar as required under the terms governance framework to protect the equities of members has begun. Importantly, the governance framework to protect the equities of members has begun. Importantly, the of engagement.

Administrator has commenced weekly reporting to the Registrar as required under the terms Administrator has commenced weekly reporting to the Registrar as required under the terms of Members engagement. of SFXCU are also advised that in accordance with section 61 (8) of the Credit

of engagement.

Unions of Act, 2011, Chapter of thethat Laws of Belize, the Registrar approved for the Members SFXCU are also 314 advised in accordance with section has 61 (8) of the Credit

Members of SFXCU also that accordance with section (8)the of of the Credit Administrator to Chapter callare a special of members inthe June 2023 tohas report on 61 the for affairs Unions Act, 2011, 314 advised ofmeeting the Laws ofin Belize, Registrar approved theAct, credit2011, union and steps taken byofthe Administrator protect their equities.

Theseof for the Unions Chapter 314 of the Laws of Belize, the Registrar approved Administrator to call athe special meeting members in Juneto2023 to report onhas the affairs include subsequent into cashAdministrator continuing Administrator toaand call a special meeting ofmanagement members practices inprotect June and 2023 to report on the affairs of thesteps credit union the stepsaudit taken by the to theirtheequities.

These investigation into specific instances of suspected misappropriation of members’ the steps credit uniona subsequent and the steps by management the Administrator protect theirfunds. equities. These include audittaken into cash practicestoand the continuing steps include ainto subsequent auditofinto cashformanagement practices and the continuing investigation specific instances of suspected misappropriation of members’ funds.

The Registrar thanks members SFXCU their commitment and understanding as the investigation intoand specific instances suspected misappropriation of members’ funds.

Administrator the staff of SFXCUofwork arduously and honestly to protect their The Registrar thanks members of SFXCU for their commitment and understanding as the interests.

and themembers staff of SFXCU work arduously honestly to protect their TheAdministrator Registrar thanks of SFXCU for theirand commitment and understanding as the interests.

The Registrar opportunity to wish everyone a blessed happy Easter.

Administrator andtakes thethis staff of SFXCU work arduously andand honestly to protect their interests.

The Registrar takes this opportunity to wish everyone a blessed and happy Easter.

The Registrar takes this opportunity to wish everyone a blessed and happy Easter.

- ENDS –

Para Publicación Inmediata Actualizacion sobre St. Francis Xavier Credit Union Limited

Ciudad deCity, Belice, 04 abril El Gobernador delBank Banco Central Belize 04 April 2023: 2023: The Governor of the Central of Belize, in de his Belice, capacity en su capacidad de de Registrador Uniónes de Crédito (elthe Registrador), a los miembros de asCiudad Registrar ofBelice, Credit Unions (the Registrar), updates members of St.informa Francis Xavier 04de abril 2023: El Gobernador del Banco Central de Belice, en su capacidad deLimited Registrador de Uniónes Crédito a los miembros Credit Union and thedepublic that(eltheRegistrador), to general SFXCU, Mr. el de St. Francis Xavier Credit(SFXCU) Union Limited (SFXCU) yAdministrator al públicoinforma en que St. Francis Xavier Credit Union Limited (SFXCU) yofalthe público en general quelas elsafely Martin Marshalleck, has reported that the operations credit union continue and Administrador de SFXCU, el Sr. Martin Marshalleck, ha informado que operaciones de Administrador de Sr. Martin Marshalleck, ha informado que las operaciones de without disruption.

SFXCU continúan deSFXCU, maneraelsegura y sin interrupción.

SFXCU continúan de manera segura y sin interrupción.

The Administrator hasreunido met withcon staff, some members, and other stakeholders, to provide interesadas El Administrador se ha algunos miembros y otras El Administrador se ha reunido con el el personal, personal, algunos miembros y otras partespartes interesadas updates and respond to queries and concerns.

The process of establishing the requisite para proporcionar actualizaciones consultas e inquietudes.

El Administrador para proporcionar actualizacionesyy responder responder aaconsultas e inquietudes.

El Administrador governance framework to protect the equities of members has begun.

Importantly, the ha comenzado el proceso dedeestablecimiento degobernación gobernación necesario para proteger el ha comenzado el proceso establecimiento de necesario para proteger el Administrator commenced weekly reporting to theque Registrar as required ha under thecomenzado termsa patrimonio dehas los miembros.Es Es importante destacar el Administrador comenzado patrimonio de los miembros. importante destacar que el Administrador ha a ofinformar engagement. semanalmente Registrador según según loloexigen loslos términos del compromiso. informar semanalmente al alRegistrador exigen términos del compromiso.

También of se SFXCU le informa los miembros deinSFXCU que, with de conformidad conoflathe sección Members areaalso advised that accordance section 61 (8) Credit61 También se le informa a los miembros de SFXCU que, de conformidad con la sección 61 (8) de la Ley2011, de Uniónes Crédito del 2011, has Capítulo 314de Unions Act, Chapterde314 of the(Credit Laws ofUnions Belize,Act) the Registrar approved forlas theLeyes (8) dedelaBelice, Ley de deaprobó Crédito Unions Act) del 2011,reunión Capítulo 314de las Leyes el Uniónes Registrador que(Credit elofAdministrador convoque especial Administrator to call a special meeting members in June 2023 touna report on the affairs de of de Belice, el Registrador aprobó que el Administrador convoque una de miembros en junio sobre los asuntos de la unión de reunión crédito y especial las the credit union and de the2023 stepspara takeninformar by the Administrator to protect their equities.

These medidas el Administrador parasobre proteger intereses de los miembros.

Estosy las miembros en tomadas junio depor 2023 para into informar los los asuntos unión de crédito steps include a subsequent audit cash management practices de andlathe continuing pasos incluyenpor unael auditoría posterior sobre prácticas gestión dede efectivo y la medidas tomadas Administrador para las proteger losdeintereses los miembros.

Estos investigation into specific instances of suspected misappropriation of members’ funds. de la investigación de casos específicos por sospecha de apropiación indebida pasoscontinuación incluyen una auditoría posterior sobre las prácticas de gestión de efectivo y la de los fondosthanks de miembros.

The Registrar members ofde SFXCU their commitment and understanding as the indebida continuación de la investigación casosfor específicos por sospecha de apropiación Administrator and the staffa los of SFXCU work arduouslypor and to protect their Registrador agradece miembros de SFXCU suhonestly compromiso y comprensión de losElfondos de miembros. interests. mientras el Administrador y el personal de SFXCU trabajan ardua y honestamente para El Registrador a los miembros de SFXCU por su compromiso y comprensión proteger losagradece intereses de los miembros.

The Registrar takes this opportunity to wish blessed and happy Easter. mientras el Administrador y el personal de everyone SFXCUatrabajan ardua y honestamente para El Registrador aprovecha esta oportunidad para desearles una bendita y feliz Pascua. proteger los intereses de los miembros.

El Registrador aprovecha esta oportunidad para desearles una bendita y feliz Pascua.

- ENDS –

- ENDS –

- ENDS –

- FIN -

- FIN ISSUED BY:

THE OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR ISSUED BY: OF BELIZE CENTRAL BANK THE OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR CENTRAL BANK OF BELIZE

1 GABOUREL LANE. BELIZE CITY, BELIZE 1 GABOUREL T: +501 223LANE. 6194 BELIZE CITY, BELIZE T: +501 223 6194

EMITIDO POR:

THE REGISTRAR OF CREDIT UNIONS ISSUED BY:

THE OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR EMITIDO POR: CENTRAL BANK OF BELIZE

1 GABOUREL LANE. BELIZE CITY, BELIZE T: +501 223 6194 1 GABOUREL LANE.

BELIZE CITY, BELIZE 1 GABOUREL LANE. T: +501 223 6194

18

6 Reasons You Should Add This Central American Country To Your Travel Plans This Year Continued from page 16

as Belize, the official language is English, yet Spanish and Creole are commonly spoken as well.

This lack of language barrier makes traveling here much easier than in other Central American countries, w h e r e you might find it a bit more difficult to get around if you do not have some basic Spanish under your belt.

New Resorts An increased interest in Belize also means more accommodation options can be expected to spring up, and this year saw one major one open its doors.

The popular resort chain Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville has just opened its newest Caribbean property in Ambergris Caye, one of Belize’s most popular tourist areas.

Alongside the Margaritaville opening, Belize has seen a handful of other high-end properties breaking ground recently, including The Belize Marriott Ambergris Caye Resort and Residences and The Alaia Belize.

In addition, luxury hotel group Four Seasons has announced their plans for their first private island in the Americas, off the coast of Belize, planned for 2024.

9 APR

THE BELIZE TIMES

Dive Right In For being such a small country, Belize makes up for it with its stunning waters full of life and wonders to discover.

Home to the second largest barrier reef in the world, snorkelers love this area for the warm, clear turquoise waters and the variety of fish, coral, and many other kinds of marine FEB life 5 you are sure to see here.

In addition to the coral reef, one

2023

main draw for divers looking for adventure is the famous Blue Hole. This massive underwater hole was made famous by Jacques Cousteau in the 1970s and remains a huge draw for those looking to see it for themselves.

Experienced divers can make the trip, and the hole – about 1,000ft wide and 412ft deep – is known to be the world’s largest.

2023 Mayan Ruins One thing that Belize has in abundance is Mayan Ruins, which shouldn’t be hard to believe since it is the cradle of the ancient Maya civilization.

In fact, the small country of Belize actually holds more Mayan Ruins per square mile than any other country in the World.

While the ruins range from easy to visit to ones you have to trek to get to, they are no doubt worth visiting.

If you are one of the many who are waiting for the Maya Train to open in Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula, hopping over the border to explore the Belize ruins is a good alternative. https://www.traveloffpath.com/6reasons-you-should-add-this-centralamerican-country-to-your-travel-plansthis-year/

THE BELIZE TIMES

REQUEST FOR EXPRESSION OF INTEREST The US Government-funded Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) has selected Belize as one of only two countries in the world for a five-year government to government grant to fund a program aimed at reducing poverty and stimulating economic growth.

The Government of Belize (GOB) through the Ministry of Finance, Economic Development, and Investment, have contracted a team of individual consultants to form a Compact Development Team in Belize that will work together with a U.S.-based MCC Team to conduct a diagnosis of the constraints to economic growth, prepare concept notes, develop project proposals, and plan for project implementation.

The Belize Compact Development Team will be led by a National Coordinator who will manage the team, engage key stakeholders across all sectors, and bear responsibility for the overall performance and work quality of the team. The Electricity Sector Specialist will be a member of BCDT and will work closely with the Program Coordinator and other members of the BCDT as well as the MCC team to develop the Electricity Project following the MCC’s Investment Criteria.

Vacant Post 1. Energy Specialist

Belize National Prayer Almighty and Eternal God, who through Jesus Christ has revealed Your Glory to all nations, please protect and preserve Belize, our beloved country.

--------------------God of might, wisdom and justice, please assist our Belizean government and people with your Holy Spirit of counsel and fortitude.

--------------------Let Your light of Your divine wisdom direct their plans and endeavours so that with Your help we may attain our just objectives.

--------------------With Your guidance, may all our endeavours tend to peace, social justice, liberty, national happiness, the increase of industry, sobriety and useful knowledge.

--------------------We pray, O God of Mercy, for all of us that we may be blessed in the knowledge and sanctified in the observance of Your most holy law, that we may be preserved in union and, in that peace which the world itself cannot give.

--------------------And, after enjoying the blessings of this life, please admit us, dear Lord, to that eternal reward that You have prepared for those who love You. Amen.

Remuneration: Competitive salary and benefits are offered, commensurate with academic level, work experience and other relevant strengths of the winning candidate.

Kindly follow the below link for further details. https://med.gov.bz/ Interested candidates are requested to submit ONE PDF File that shall include: a) Letter of Interest indicating the post being applied for; b) the curriculum vitae, c) copies of university degrees, and d) the names of 3 references.

Subsequently the top 3 applicants for the post will be interviewed.

Deadline for application is 14 April at 4:00pm. Application can be sent via email to: econdev@med.gov.bz or hand delivered to the address indicated below: Chief Executive Officer Ministry of Economic Development Sir Edney Cain Building Ground Floor, Right Wing Belmopan City, Belize C.A. Any request for clarification should be sent via email no later than 20 April 2023. Responses will be provided within three days.

9 APR

Profound Experiences in Britain

By Hon. Gilroy Usher, Port Loyola “The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only one page.”

–Saint Augustine (Continued from March 26) The service to commemorate Commonwealth Day was held at the historic Westminster Abbey on Monday March 13th, 2023. Royalties such as Prince Charles who is King Charles III in waiting only for a few more weeks and his wife, Camilla, Queen Consort sat in the front row on two chairs with red velvet and gold colored metal linings. Beside the Queen Consort was Prince William and his wife Princess Catherine. I sat in the second row directly opposite members of the Royal family. Throughout the service they did everything as normal persons.

Sir Lindsay Hoyle is Speaker of the House of Commons in Britain. According to Speaker Hoyle some fundamental qualities of good Speaker include the ability to be fair to all parties as well as the ability to allow robust but respectful debate in the House without allowing the pot to boil over –without allowing the debate to become disrespectful and disorderly with mudslinging and character attacks.

Attorney Abdul Rahim Sowe of Sierra Leone, who is confined to a wheelchair, is a professional with diverse ability from birth. Mr. Sowe is the principal bills officer for the parliament of his country.

As a result of the appreciation of Britain /United Kingdom (U.K.) for persons with diverse abilities provision is made for wheelchairs in all government buildings.

Consequently, Attorney Sowe was able to attend all the sessions with little or no difficulty. Attorney Fatou Bensouda is Gambia’s High Commissioner to the United Kingdom and former Chief Prosecutor for the International Criminal Court (ICC). In one of her final acts at the ICC, Attorney Bensouda ruled that the ICC should hear the case of the Palestinians against Israeli occupation.

Despite its long history of racism against minorities especially Blacks, the Westminster Seminar gave the delegates from around the world the opportunity to see that Britain is moving steadily towards inclusion of all its people.

Axell Kaubo Programme, Manager for the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association ( CPA) UK ; Hon. Bell Ribeiro –Addy Labour MP for Streatham ; Victoria Obaze first Nigerian female Mayor of Tower Hamlets, and Prime Minister Rishi Sunak are all black persons. While the PM is of East Indian heritage, he is still considered black in Britain and the United States. A few decades ago, nonwhites especially blacks being victorious in elections for many prominent positions in Britain was definitely mission impossible.

One of the things that cannot escape anyone in Britain is the high cost of

19

THE BELIZE TIMES

2023

living. Due to low salaries for millions of persons, many residents in Britain cannot provide their children with a high school education or afford cable TV. In higher end, stores a necktie cost 80 pounds or approximately $85 US. In London, a taxi to the airport is 95 pounds or approximately $100.00 US. At least four speakers at the Westminster seminar had to speak virtually, instead of in person, because train strikes for higher wages across London made traveling long distances from point A to point B by train unachievable.

The Westminster conference revealed that the success of women being elected members of parliament in Commonwealth countries varies a lot.

Of the 650 elected members of

25 SEP

2020

the House of Commons in Britain 225 or 33% of them are women. At home of the 31 elected members of the House of Representatives 4 or 13% of them are women. To encourage more women to participate in government as leaders, the constitution of a number of Commonwealth countries state that a specific number of seats must be reserved for women. A few of those constitutions go even further in stating that only female candidates can contest specific seats for parliament.

The Westminster seminar revealed interesting positions on conflicts that are affecting neighboring Commonwealth countries. The resources of Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago, and many other Commonwealth counties in the

Caribbean are being severely strained in coping with the large flow of refugees from Haiti, which has been experiencing major instability for over a year. The consensus was that as a block, CARICOM heads, need to take the lead in pressing world leaders to aid in the stabilization of the country for the benefit of the entire region and the wider world instead of only complaining as the situation get worse.

The seminar also revealed that, while the rate of crime is low in many Commonwealth nations. Progressive and firm action must be taken to halt the major crime problem in Jamaica and several other member nations as more youths are looking up to local artists who glorify gangs, murder, dishonesty, disrespect for women and police officers, and other criminal activities.

THE BELIZE TIMES

ASSISTANT MANAGER, FACILITY MANAGEMENT

The Central Bank invites qualified individuals to join its Administration Department.

The Assistant Manager, Facility Management is responsible for the leadership and management of the Facilities Management Unit (FMU) and reports to the Manager, Administration. The FMU is responsible for providing complete operations and maintenance service support to ensure that the Central Bank’s facility is operated at peak performance; the building and grounds are kept in immaculate condition; and the working environment is comfortable, safe, and healthy and is conducive to high productivity.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

         

Develops, implements, maintains, and oversees a comprehensive Operating and Maintenance Program in line with international standards and best practices.

Develops, implements, and maintains Occupational Health and Safety Policy and Procedures.

Plans for future development in line with strategic business objectives.

Prepares, negotiates and oversees the performance of service contracts for the maintenance of the facility.

Plans and oversees Energy Management efforts and provides monthly reports on energy and water utilization.

Establishes and maintains files of as-built, schematic and engineering drawings of plant facilities, including specifications, operations and maintenance manuals.

Oversees the maintenance, modification, and upgrade of computerized systems, such as computer-aided design and drafting (CADD) and building management system (BMS) and any other automated system deemed necessary to improve efficiency.

Leads and coordinates projects involving spatial requirements, including re-organization of current premises, facility expansion, and identification of new premises and/or new construction.

Participates actively in Business Continuity Planning to ensure quick recovery and resumption of critical business function.

Responds appropriately to emergencies or urgent issues as they arise and be accessible on a 24-hour basis.

The applicants should possess the following: EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

  

Master's degree in Facilities Management or any of the following engineering disciplines: Electrical, Mechanical, or Civil Engineering with at least four (4) years of industry experience in a management and/or maintenance field; or Master's degree in Management (MBA) and a Bachelor's degree in Electrical, Mechanical, or Civil Engineering with at least five (5) years of industry experience; or Bachelor's degree in Electrical, Mechanical, or Civil Engineering or Facilities Management with at least six (6) years of industry experience in management and/or mechanical, electrical, or civil maintenance and/or installation. A certificate or experience in Facilities Management would be an asset.

TECHNICAL KNOWLEDGE



Strong mechanical aptitude and a working knowledge of electrical and mechanical systems to deliver quality work, and keep informed of the latest trends and developments in the discipline; Knowledge of Occupational Health & Safety Standards and safe workplace practices, facilities management including civil, mechanical, and electrical applications, plumbing and air conditioning and building compliance codes; Proficient in software applications, including CADD software, CMMS, and Microsoft Suite; Proficient in strategic management and project management; Ability to read and interpret blueprints, plans, specifications, and detailed layout drawings.

COMPETENCIES



Communications & Interpersonal Skills, Results Orientation, Flexibility/Adaptability, Leadership, Decision Making/ProblemSolving, Empowering and Developing Others, Project Management

Submit the following documents by Wednesday, 12 April 2023:

   

CBB Employment Application Form (Available online) Curriculum Vitae Three (3) current references (one must be from a previous employer) Certified copies of university transcripts, degrees, and any other personal certificates

Applications should be addressed to: Manager, Human Resources Department Central Bank of Belize P O Box 852 or Gabourel Lane Belize City, BELIZE

Ref: Assistant Manager, Facility Management- Administration Department Email: hr@centralbank.org.bz or online at www.centralbank.org.bz (All applications will be held in strict confidence.)

https://www.linkedin.com/company /central-bank-of-belize/

20 2023 5 FEB

THE BELIZE TIMES

254 2023 9 APR

MINISTRY OF INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT AND HOUSING INVITATION TO CONSULTING FIRMS TO SUBMIT EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST Operation Data Country:

BELIZE

Operation:

Expansion and Rehabilitation of the Philip Goldson Highway

Operation No:

Loan Agreement No. 2295

Consulting Data Name of the Consultancy:

Consultancy Services for Construction Supervision of the Expansion and Rehabilitation of the Philip Goldson Highway

Selection Method:

Quality and Cost Based Selection

Reference number:

PGHUP-CAB-002

The Government of Belize – Ministry of Infrastructure Development & Housing has received financing from the Central American Bank for Economic Integration for the Expansion and Rehabilitation of the Philip Goldson Highway, and it is intended to use a portion of the funds for consulting services contracts.

The Consulting services (“the services”) include: A two phased assignment. Phase #1, is to assist the GOBZ in reviewing the existing (November 2017) detailed design and make adjustments to its content and cost estimates reflecting conditions that have changed since its completion and current cost escalations due to various national and international factors. Phase #2, of this consultancy is to assist the GOBZ in providing project management of those road works, including contractor supervision and contract administration throughout the project implementation process, inclusive of the defects liability period.

The Government of Belize – Ministry of Infrastructure Development & Housing invites eligible consulting firms to express their interest in providing the requested services. Interested consultants shall provide information indicating that they are qualified to provide the services and may partner with other firms in the form of a Joint Venture (JV) or subconsultants to improve their qualifications. The criteria for shortlist selection are found within the respective Terms of Reference.

Interested Consulting Firms can obtain the Terms of Reference at no cost by requesting them by email: peu@midh.gov.bz Consultants will be selected using the method of Quality Cost-Based Selection described in the Regulations for the Application of the Procurement Policy available in www.bcie.org.

Interested consultants can obtain more information at the address indicated at the end of this invitation, during business hours.

One electronic copy of the Expression (s) of interest together with the information indicated in the Terms of Reference must be submitted to the address below. The file(s) containing each submission should include the name and address of the applicant and shall be clearly marked “Expression of Interest Consultancy Services for Contract Supervision of the Expansion and Rehabilitation of the Philip Goldson Highway” and shall be received by no later than 10:00 a.m. local time on Friday 21 April 2023.

The burden of proving receipt of the e-mail will be on the applicant and will not be met solely by a read receipt or sent items report generated by the applicant’s computer. Confirmation of receipt can be requested at the address listed below.

Ministry of Infrastructure Development & Housing - Project Execution Unit Mr. Evondale Moody Engineering Coordinator Ministry of Infrastructure Development & Housing Power Lane, Belmopan, BELIZE Tel: +501-828-5220 Email: peu@midh.gov.bz

9 APR

2023 Commitment to Education and Excellence

Hon. Francis Fonseca: Late last week, “The Chief Education Officer Ms Yolanda Gongora and I visited Edward P. Yorke High School in Belize City.

We had an opportunity to meet with the Principal, Vice Principal, Members of the School Board, Heads of Department, teachers and students. We also had an opportunity to tour the school campus and see first-hand the condition of the existing buildings.

EPYHS is a growing institution with a school population of around 620 students.

It is clear that a new school building is needed to meet the needs of the students and teachers. The Ministry of Education will work along with the Board and Administration of the school to develop a plan to achieve this objective.

EPYHS has a proud history of academic excellence and producing quality students who are contributing in many different ways to the development of Belize.

EPYHS is a model government secondary school with strong leadership, dedicated teachers and staff and enthusiastic students who appreciate the value of Education.

Working together we will build on this history and legacy.....the Work Continues....”(via FB)

Obituary

Raquel Vasquez

Born July 5th 1930 – Died April 1st 2023 Those we love can never be more than a thought away; for as long as there's a memory, they live on in our hearts.

It is with heavy hearts that the Hon. Andre Perez , and his San Pedro staff extend their deepest condolences to the Vasquez and Perez family and friends on the passing of Mrs. Raquel Vasquez who passed away peacefully this past Saturday April 1 at the age of 92.

The wake will be held in Corozal Town on Tuesday, April 4, 2023.

Funeral service to honor her will be held at 3pm, Wednesday, April 5th, at St. Francis Xavier Church in Corozal Town.

May she rest in peace and rise in eternal glory.

She leaves behind her 1 son, her 9 daughters, 33 grandchildren, 60 great grandchildren, 4 great, great grandchildren. 6 sons-in-law, 1 daughter-in-law and her siblings, 3 sisters and 2 brothers.

THE BELIZE TIMES

21

22 2020 25 SEP

Another BYM Community Mural

Belmopan BYM’s Community Mural showcasing unity! We love to create green spaces for our youth, leaders and wider community.

A shoutout to our guest speaker: April Martinez Much appreciation to our area representative Hon. Oscar Mira for his unwavering support.

This is how we dweet!

178 2023 9 APR

THE BELIZE TIMES Central Information Technology Office Ministry of Finance Office Central Information Technology Ministry of Finance

Corner Dry Creek Mountain View Boulevard Belmopan Corner Dry Creek Mountain View Boulevard Belmopan

Telephones: 501 822-2406/08-20708 • Email: contact@cito.gov.bz Telephones: 501 822-2406/08-20708 • Email: contact@cito.gov.bz

1.

2.

3.

TENDER FORFOR THE SUPPLY OFMICROSOFT MICROSOFT 365 LICENSES THE SUPPLY OF 365 LICENSES FOR THEFOR THE TENDER GOVERNMENT OFOF BELIZE GOVERNMENT BELIZE

The Government of Belize, acting through the Central Information Technology The Government Belize, acting the Central Information Technology Office, now Office, now invites Tenders for the1.supply of Microsoftof365 Licenses forthrough the 4. references.

1. The Government offor Belize, acting through the Central Technology invites Tenders the supply of Microsoft 365 Licenses for Information theTwo Government of Belize. The Office, now Government of Belize. The subscription period required is for one (1) year. period forMicrosoft one (1) year.365 Licenses for the Government of Belize. The invites subscription Tenders for therequired supplyisof 5. The bids should be valid for six months from the last date for Procurement of the goods will be conducted period through required Open Tendering subscription is forProcedure. one (1) year. submission of the bids.

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

Terms of Reference The contract subject to the following Income and Business Tax as per 2. Procurement ofReference the goods will be conducted8.through OpenisTendering Procedure.

3. Terms of Government Policy as shown below: a. 25% - for entities from non-Caricom countries 3a. Technical specifications Technical specifications 3. Terms of 3a.

Reference b. 15% - forinentities from Caricom countries The scope of work includes the provision of Microsoft Licenses for the products listed The scope of work includes the provision of Microsoft Licenses for the c. 19% for entities licensed to provide telecomthe table below: products listed in the table below: munication services that offer real-time voice 3a. Technical specifications ITEM QUANTITY services.

ITEM QUANTITY Microsoft 365 E3includes The scope of work the provision of Microsoft Licenses3,250 products listed in d.for the 6% for companies in Belize

the tableMicrosoft below:365 F3

175 3,250 Microsoft Defender for Office 365 (Plan 1) 5,805 Price should be inclusive of General Sales Tax (GST) payment of 12.5% for ITEM QUANTITY Microsoft Security E5 (has Defender for Office GST-registered agents. 150 Microsoft 365 F3 175 Microsoft E3 for Endpoint Plan 2, and Azure 3,250 Plan 365 2, Defender Microsoft Defender for Office 365 (Plan 1) Microsoft 5,805 Premium 365 Plan F3 2) 175 10. Questions and Replies 1,150 Office 365 E1 Microsoft Defender for Office 365150 (Plan 1) 5,805 Microsoft Security E5 (has Defender for Office Office 365 E3 1,000 in English and shall be sent via email to Questions shall be type-written Plan 2, Defender for Endpoint Plan 2, and Azure Premium Plan 2) Microsoft Security 150 Office 365 F3 E5 (has Defender for Office the following address: MS365tenders2023@cito.gov.bz.

200 The deadline for Office 365 E1 1,150 Plan 2,Office Defender Endpoint Plan 2, and Azure queries is 14 April 2023. 30 365 E5 for without Audio Conferencing Premium Plan 2) Power BI Pro 20 Office 365 E3 1,000 Responses from the CITO200 will be type-written in English and will be Project Office 365 E1Plan 3 1,150 emailed to the requester and may also be made available to other Tenderers Project Plan 5 15 Office 365 F3 200 Office 365 E3 1,000 subject to confidentiality.

Visio Plan 2 100 200 Office 365 E5 without Audio Conferencing Office 365 F3 30

Microsoft 365 E3

9.

11. Submission of Tenders should be emailed to MS365tenders2023@cito.gov.

Office3b.

365 E5 without Audio Conferencing 30SUPPLY OF MICROSOFT 365 Program of Works bz with the subject TENDER FOR THE 20 of work includes: LICENSES FOR GOVERNMENT OF20 BELIZE. PowerThe BI program Pro 1. Technical support with license 200 provisioning. a) To ensure confidentiality, the bid response shall consist of two Project Plan 3 2. Activation of licenses and handing over to the Central Information Technology password-protected files200 - one technical and one financial. This 15 can be done on the file itself, Project PlanOffice.

5 15 using zip password protection, or some other means of password-protecting the file. The password Visio Plan 2 100 100 will be requested at the opening of the tender.

Power BI Pro Project Plan 3 Project Plan 5 Visio Plan 2

b) Bidders shall submit a brief description of the documents con3b. Program of Works tained in each of the password-protected files.

The program of work includes: The program of work includes: 1. license Technical support with license provisioning. c) Any discounts offered should be clearly stated by the Tenderer.

1. Technical support with provisioning. handing over to the Central Information Technology 2. Activation of licenses2.andActivation handing overofto licenses the Centraland Informa13. The deadline for Tender submission is 10:00 am on 28 April 2023. Subtion Technology Office. Office. missions received after the deadline will be rejected.

3b. Program of Works

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

Issue resolution for the duration of the contract period (12 months).

3c. Schedule The licenses are to be provisioned and activated no later than 30 June 2023. 14. Evaluation Criteria

Copies of this Tender document can be downloaded from the Ministry of Finance Procurement Portal https://procurement.gov.bz/ or the CARICOM Public Procurement Notice Board https://cppnb.caricom.org/epps/home.do.

The currency exchange rate for regional/international bidders is USD 1.00 to BZD 2.00.

Tenders will be evaluated on technical merit and price based on the following criteria: Evaluation Criteria Financial Offer

Weight (%) 50%

Eligibility Criteria: This invitation is open to all eligible Tenderers as per the Technical proposal 50% eligibility criteria below: 20% 1. The Tenderer has an active membership in Microsoft Partner Network Direct technical support from Microsoft. for Latin America and the Caribbean region and market (MPN ID) at Access to the portal for managing licenses throughout the term of the 10% the time of bid submission. agreement (1 year) 2. The Tenderer must be an active Cloud Service Provider (CSP) that can 10% sell CSP offers in Latin America and the Caribbean region and market Service delivery models for issue resolution must be with English-speak3. The Tenderer should provide evidence of experience deploying Micro- ing technical support. soft 365 Licenses for at least one (1) previous contract of a similar size Service delivery experience in provisioning and supporting Microsoft 5% and nature within the past three years.

365 for business comparable in the magnitude of this Tender 4. The Tenderer is required to provide a signed and dated banker’s reference that should include the following information: The financial strength of the company demonstrated over the past 5% a. The name and contact information of the bank or financial three (3) years institution providing the reference. b. The name of the account holder and the account number. Total 100% c. The length of the banking relationship. d. The monthly average balance of the account over the past 15. Opening of the Tenders will take place online on 3 May 2023 at 2 pm 12 months.

Belize Time and in the presence of the Tenderers or their representatives e. Any other relevant information that the bank or financial who wish to attend the Tender opening. institution deems appropriate.

5. The Tenderer has availability of liquid assets through either: 16. Evaluation of the Tenders will be conducted on 5 May 2023. a. Access to a line of credit of 100% of the bid price b. Cash in a bank account of an amount at least 100% of the a) The selection of the successful Tenderer will be based on a bid price competitive process that considers Technical and Financial Proposals.

Administrative Requirements: All Tenders shall include the following additional documentation in their submission: b) The Technical file will be opened first, evaluated, and ranked.

1. Business certificates The Evaluation Committee will first check for administrative a. For local Tenderers: compliance and only those bids complying will have their 1. Current copies of Certificates of Good technical proposal evaluated against the Evaluation Criteria to Standing from: determine the technical capacity of the tenderer to provide the a. Belize Tax Service within 6 Microsoft 365 Licenses and Support services at the level being months requested. b. Belize Companies Registry within 1 year c) Only those Tenderers passing a minimum of 70% will have their Financial proposal opened and evaluated. c. Belize Social Security Board within 1 year d) The financial proposal will count for 50% of the total points.

2. A valid copy of the entity’s Trade License reflecting the name of the entity that is bidding e) The Tenderer with the highest combined value (Technical + within 1 year.

Financial) will be recommended for the award of the contract. b. For regional/international Tenderers: Statement of comf) Incomplete tenders will not be accepted. pliance from Companies’ Registry within 1 year.

2.

3.

Bids must be accompanied by a notarized bid-securing declaration.

Power of attorney showing person signing the bid is authorized to do so.

17. The Tenderer who offers the lowest price and who qualified in the technical evaluation, may not necessarily be awarded the contract for the supply of the Microsoft 365 Licenses to the Government of Belize.

95 APR FEB

23 235

THE BELIZE TIMES

2023

TENDER FOR THE SUPPLY OF FOOD ITEMS AND HOUSEHOLD SUNDRIES TO THE BELIZE DEFENCE FORCE FISCAL YEAR 2023 – 2024

1.Tenders are invited for the supply of food items listed below to the Belize Defence force for the period 1st June 2023 to 31st May 2024.

2.Quotation for the supply of goods is to be based on Duty Paid Prices. Brand names are to be specified where necessary.

3.Contract will be terminated if the contractor consistently fails to supply the requisite items as agreed.

4.The food and household sundries requirements are calculated by the month and are an estimate only. Orders by the Belize Defence Force will fluctuate as necessary.

5.Tenders should be in a sealed envelope address to the chairperson, Ministry of National Defence and Border Security, Belmopan, and marked “Tender for the Supply of Food, Household Sundries, Vegetables, and Meat for the Belize Defence Force”. Envelopes should be deposited at Belmopan in the tender box no later than the 6th April 2023 at 11:30 am.

6.Companies Registry Certificate to be submitted.

7.Social Security letter of good standing to be submitted.

LIST OF FOOD ITEMS AND HOUSEHOLD SUNDRIES REQUIREMENT BELIZE DEFENCE FORCE Food allocation and household sundries are per month.

Belize Defence Force, Price Barracks, Ladyville, Belize District Meats Item Baby back ribs Beef Patties Beef Steak Chicken (Breast) Chicken (Whole) Conch Fish Fillet Ground Chicken

Unit lbs lbs lbs lbs lbs lbs lbs lbs

Ground Steak

Quantity Per Month

Quantity Per Year

110 766 2807 3573 25520 83 4466 2552

1320 9192 33684 42876 306240 996 53592 30624

lbs

1276

15312

Lamb Chops Lobster Pigtail Pork Chops Shrimp Shrimp (Paradise) Snapper fish

lbs lbs bkt lbs lbs lbs lbs

55 83 16 110 638 83 83

660 996 192 1320 7656 996 996

Turkey

lbs

55

660

Breakfast Items

Item Unit Bacon Slices lbs Breakfast Sausages lbs Chicken Ham Slices lbs Eggs each Happy Cow Cheese lbs Kraft Cheese Singles (24 piece) pack Salami Sausage lbs

Item Brown Sugar Corn Tortilla Flour Red Kidney Beans Split Peas White Rice

Item Burger Bread Dinner Rolls Sweet Bun Whole Wheat Bread

Unit lbs lbs lbs lbs lbs lbs

Unit pack pack pack pack

Quantity Per Month Quantity Per Year 1531 3445 1531 50838 1630 128 1531 Grains Quantity Per Month

731 2552 6520 6376 354 9107

Bread Quantity Per Month

510 510 2042 5614

Quantity Per Year

Quantity Per Year

18372 41340 18372 610056 19560 1536 18372

8772 30624 78240 76512 4248 109284

6120 6120 24504 67368

Item Black Pepper Black Recado Chicken Consume Complete Seasoning Curry Powder Dry Rosemary Fish Seasoning Fresh Garlic (Baba’s) Italian Seasoning (Badia) (141.8 g) Jerk Seasoning Medium heat (Grace) (312g) Meat Tenderizer Seasoning Parsley Flakes Red Recado Salt Spice Seed

Seasonings Unit Quantity Per Month Quantity Per Year lbs 227 lbs 32 lbs 115 lbs 96 lbs 32 lbs 32 lbs 20 head 1850 Bottle 1

2724 384 1380 1152 384 384 240 22200 12

bottle lbs lbs lbs lbs lbs

312 192 1152 2388 2916 192

26 16 96 199 243 16

Fruits/Vegetables

Item

Unit

Quantity Per Month

Apple

each

5104

Quantity Per Year 61248

Banana

lbs

2042

24504

Broccoli

lbs

383

4596

Cabbage

lbs

319

3828

Carrots

lbs

1021

12252

Cauliflower

lbs

383

4596 4596

Celery

lbs

383

Cilantro

lbs

200

2400

Coco Yam

lbs

383

4596

Cucumber

lbs

638

7656

Lettuce

lbs

766

9192 12252

Lime

each

1021

Muskmelon

lbs

510

6120

Okra

lbs

383

4596

Onion

lbs

2935

35220

Orange

each

7656

91872

Papaya

lbs

510

6120

Pineapple

lbs

1021

12252

Potato

lbs

5487

65844

Ripe Plantain

each

1021

12252

Spinach

lbs

255

3060

Sweet Pepper

lbs

1021

12252

Tomato

lbs

1148

13776

Watermelon

lbs

510

6120

Continued on page 24

24 2023 5 FEB

236 2023 9 APR

THE BELIZE TIMES TENDER FOR THE SUPPLY OF FOOD ITEMS AND HOUSEHOLD SUNDRIES TO THE BELIZE DEFENCE FORCE FISCAL YEAR 2023 – 2024

Continued from page 23

Cleaning Supplies and Sundries Quantity Per Quantity Items Unit Month Per Year Air Freshener (block) block 55 660 Bio burger tray single 550 6600 Bio cups 12 oz single single 8800 105600 Bio cups 16 oz single single 3300 39600 Bio forks single 3300 39600 Bio plates 6” single 1100 13200 Bio plates 9” single 1650 19800 Bio soup bowl single single 1100 13200 Bio soup cup single 330 3960 Bio spoons single single 5500 66000 Bio take out tray single 8800 105600 Bleach Gallon 264 3168 Broom Single 66 792 Brown paper rolls single 220 2640 Camphor balls Pk packs 28 330 Carbo negros (gals) gallons 11 132 Cleaning Cloth Pack 317 3802 Coffee Filter single 10000 120000 Commercial mop bucket single 11 132 Deck broom single 11 132 Degreaser single 33 396 Dish Washing Liquid gallons 33 396 Dish Washing Liquid case 34 409 Duster single 22 264 Floor mop single 66 792 Fly Spray cannister 211 2534 Foil paper 75 ft single single 83 990 Furnisher Polish (canister) canister 13 158 Glass Cleaner bottle 26 317 Industrial Mop single 11 132 Liquid soap (gals) bottle 77 924 Lysol Spray cannister 53 634 Muriatic Acid bott 66 792 Napkin (pks) (500 pk) packs 55 660 Oven Cleaner cannister 26 317 Paper Towels rolls 88 1056 Pine Oil (gals) gallons 165 1980 Plunger single 17 198 Pot Washer single 550 6600 Soap Powder 250 g Bags 1980 23760 Soap Powder 5KG Bags 165 1980 Scrubbing Brush Single 26 317 Steel Wool pks 83 990 Tile cleaner (Tilex) single 22 264 Toilet bowl cleaner (btls) bottle 40 475 Toilet brush single 22 264 Toilet Paper (Scott) rolls 2200 26400 Trash bag heavy duty (50 Gallons) single 5500 66000 Trash Bags (13 gals) single 145 1742

Dry Goods Item Unit Baking Powder (Hearth Club) (230 g) tin BBQ Coal bag BBQ Sauce (18oz) bott Bottle Juice (Crystal) (500 ml) case Bottle Water (Crystal) (500 ml) case Butter cookies 12 oz Pan Butter stick (blue bonnet) packs Chicken Sausage (Grace) tin Chopped Ham tin Coconut Oil quart Coconut Powder (12 packet) pack Coffee Creamer (coffee mate) (435g) Single Coffee packet (Nescafe) (100 pk) case Condensed Milk (Dutch Lady) (397 g) tin Corn Beef sml tin Corn Flakes (Honey Bunches of oats: Almond) Single Corned Beef (340 g) tin Cornflakes sml (20 pk) case Cranberry Juice 3 Liter (Ocean Spray) Assorted Case Creamer Packet (Coffee mate) (1000 pk) (3 g) case Custard (400 g) bott Evaporated Milk (Dutch Lady) (410 g) tin Fire Dragon green and clean gel fuel single Fruit Cocktail 30 oz Single Gatorade (591 ml) Case Grapefruit Concentrate (Citrus Valley) (1L) bott Green Tea packs Horchata Concentrate (700 ml) bott Instant Coffee (Nescafe Dolca) (170 g) bott Jalapenos 1 Gal Tin Jam (Del monte) (470 g) bott Jam (Marie Sharp) (assorted) (312 g) single Ketchup (Heinz) (32 oz) bott Lime concentrate (Citrus Valley) (1L) bott Luncheon Meat (DAK) (340 g) tin Macaroni & Cheese (Kraft) (206 g) pack Mackerel (Grace) tin Margarine (454 g) lbs Maxwell House Coffee (869g) (Brew) Single Mayonnaise (443 g) bott Milo Drink (400 g) pack Mixed Vegetables (234 g) tin Mixed Vegetables (411 g) tin Nature Valley (98 bars) case Oats (Quaker) (510 g) bott Orange Concentrate (Citrus Valley) (1L) bott Ovaltine Powdered Drink (400 g) pack Pack Ramen (Maruchan) (24 pk) case Pasta (bowtie) (1 lbs) pack Peanut Butter (Jiff) (510 g) Single Peanut packets (12 pk) case

Quantity Quantity Per Month Per Year 146 1752 128 1536 255 3060 11 132 17 204 11 132 415 4980 2016 24192 396 4752 255 3060 2161 25932 55 660 6 72 4312 552

51744 6624

253 792 25

3036 9504 300

2

24

1 99

12 1188

2429 1100 22 3

29148 13200 264 36

383 609 255

4596 7308 3060

1775 12 99 55 655 858 990 1531 2100 319 55 255 510 396 255 6 99

21300 144 1188 660 7860 10296 11880 18372 25200 3828 660 3060 6120 4752 3060 72 1188

893 10716 396 4752 23 276 22 264 154 1848 46 552 Continued on page 25

25 SEP 9 APR

2020 2023

155 25

5 FEB

THE BELIZ

THE BELIZE BELIZE2023 THE TIMES

Ministry of Infrastructure Development and Housing

PUBLIC NOTICE

Lodgment of an ESIA Report and Public Consultation For George Price Highway Upgrading Project (Belize City - Belmopan) by the Ministry of Infrastructure Development & Housing The General Public is hereby informed that an Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) report was submitted to the Department of the Environment (DOE) by the Ministry of Infrastructure Development & Housing for the George Price Highway Upgrading Project (Belize City - Belmopan).

The ESIA report was prepared by Nextera Environmental and Engineering Consultants. The ESIA report will be reviewed by the National Environmental Appraisal Committee (NEAC) before a final decision is taken.

The public is hereby advised that the EIA-Report will be available for public review, free of charge, Mondays to Fridays, during normal working hours (8:00 am to 5:00 pm) from March 16th at the following locations: Hattieville Community Center, La Democracia Community Center, St. Matthews Village Government School, MIDH-Project Execution Unit and at the DOE’s Office located at 7552 Hummingbird Highway, Belmopan. Likewise, the EIA-Report and its annexes are all available on the DOE’s website at link: https://doe.gov.bz/download/esia-george-price-highway-upgrade-belize-to-belmopan/and https://doe.gov.bz/download/ appendices-esia-george-price-highway-upgrade-belize-to-belmopan/

TENDER FOR THE SUPPLY OF FOOD ITEMS AND HOUSEHOLD SUNDRIES TO THE BELIZE DEFENCE FORCE FISCAL YEAR 2023 – 2024

Continued from page 24

Dry Goods continued Item Unit Pepper Sauce (MARIE SHARP) (10 oz) case Pineapple Concentrate (Citrus Valley) (1L) bott Pouch Water (Crystal) (355 ml) bag Salad Cream (285 g) bott Salsa Casera (220 g) tin Salt packet (3000 pk) case Soft Drink (assorted) (600 ml) case Sopita Seasoning (144 pk) case Soy Sauce (295 ml) bott Sugar packet (1200 pk) case Swiss Miss (120 pk) case Tang (96 pk) case Tea Bag (Dilma) (100 bags) pack Tomato paste (100 g) pack Vegetable Oil liter Vegetable Shortening lbs Vinegar (6 gal per case) case Ziplock sandwich bag (145 each) box

Quantity Quantity Per Month Per Year

The public is invited to participate in-person or virtually in this public consultation to provide comments/input, recommendations, and/or express their concerns to the DOE regarding this proposed project activity.

3828

255 88 255 1645 1 23 4 510 1 4 21 33 5386 1018 728 51 4

3060 1056 3060 19740 12 276 48 6120 12 48 252 396 64632 12216 8736 612 48

JOIN OUR

TEAM

Belize Electricity Limited is the primary distributor and the only licensed public provider of electricity in Belize. Our Mission is to deliver safe, reliable and sustainable energy solutions to enhance the quality of life and the productivity of enterprise and to support national development.

The public is invited to submit their comments in writing on or before April 19, 2023, to the DOE Office in Belmopan or email: envirodept@environment.gov.bz; eiaunit@environment.gov.bz., or by link: https://forms.gle/baFsATJBdvaLbUCh9 Kindly be informed that a hybrid public consultation for the ESIA will be held on April 13, 2023, commencing at 6:30 pm at St. Matthews Village – Basketball Court. An online link will be provided three days before the date of the Public Consultation.

319

View details at www.bel.com.bz

Submit application letter and resume to career.opportunity@bel.com.bz

by Friday, April 14, 2023

26 2023 5 FEB

230 2023 9 APR

THE BELIZE TIMES

TENDER FOR THE SUPPLY OF FOOD ITEMS AND HOUSEHOLD SUNDRIES TO THE BELIZE COAST GUARD YEAR 2023 – 24 1. Tenders are invited for the supply of food items listed below to the Belize Coast Guard for the period 1st June 2023 to 31st May 2024.

2. Quotation for the supply of goods is to be based on Duty Paid Prices. Brand names are to be specified where necessary.

3. Contract will be terminated if the contractor consistently fails to supply the requisite items as agreed.

4. The food and household sundries requirements are calculated by the month and are an estimate only. Orders by the Belize Coast Guard will fluctuate as necessary.

5. Tenders should be in sealed envelope address to the chairperson, Ministry of National Defence and Border Security, Belmopan, and marked “Tender for the Supply of Food, Household Sundries, Vegetables, and Meat for the Belize Coast Guard”. Envelopes should be deposited at Belmopan in the tender box no later than the 6th April 2023 at 1130 am.

6. Companies Registry Certificate to be submitted.

7. Social Security letter of good standing to be submitted.

8. Belize Sales Tax Letter to be submitted.

LIST OF FOOD ITEMS AND HOUSEHOLD SUNDRIES REQUIREMENT BELIZE COAST GUARD Food allocation and household sundries are per month.

Belize Coast Guard 2 ½ Miles George Price Highway, Belize FOOD (RATION) TENDERING FOR FISCAL YEAR 2023 – 24 SER

Commodities

Units

Qty

Pkg

Breakdown

Brand

1

BBQ Sauce

18 oz bot

10

cses

12 per case

Kraft

2

BBQ Sauce

80 oz bot

1

cse

6 per case

Kraft

3

Bake Beans (honey)

28 oz tin

12

cses

12 per case

Bush

4

Baking Powder

8 oz tin

8

cses

24 per case

Heart Club

5

Beans - Black

100 lb sack

3

scks

100 lb per sack

Local

6

Beans - Red Kidney

100 lb sack

6

scks

100 lb per sack

Local

54

Marie Sharp Pepper

10 oz bot

14

cses

12 per case

Marie Sharp

55

Mayonaise

8 oz bot

6

cses

12 per case

Kraft

56

Mayonaise

1 gal

1

cse

4 per case

Plantation

57

Milk

1 lt box

2

cse

12 per case

Lala

58

Milo

300 g pk

8

cses

12 pks per case

Nestle

59

Mix vegetables

15 oz tin

8

cses

24 per case

Del Monte (packed/USA)

60

Nut meg

lb

1

lbs

1 lb per jar

Badia

61

Oats

18 oz tin

7

cses

12 per case

Quaker (packed /USA)

Cses

4 per case

7

Beef consume

12 g sachet

60

cards

12 sachet per card

Mahler

8

Black Pepper

lb

24

jar

1 lb per jar

Badia Local

64

Parmesan Cheese

Bot

4

bots

30 pks per case

Blue Bonnet

65

Peanut Butter -Creamy

bot

1

cses

9

Bread - Wheat

each

400

ea

10

Butter

1 lb per pk

5

cses

62

Olive Oil

1 gal

3

63

Onion Powder

jars

15

Badia Badia Kraft

12/160m

Jif

11

Cookies

box

1

cse

24 x 250 grams

McVittes

66

Powder milk

840 g

3

cses

12 per case

Nestle Nido

12

Campbell Soup

10.5 oz tin

10

cses

12 per case

Campbell

67

Ranch Dressing-light

bot

2

cses

12 per case

Hidden Valley

13

Cereal

18 oz pk

5

cses

12 per case

Honey Nut Cheerios’

68

Recado black

lb

10

lbs

per lb

Local

14

Cereal

14.5 oz pk

2

cse

12 per case

Honey Bunches of Oats

69

Recado red

lb

30

lbs

per lb

Local

15

Cereal

560 g pk

5

cses

10 per case

Kellogs Corn Flakes

70

Refried Beans

580g tin

8

cses

12 per case

La Costena

16

Cheese

2 kgs per blks

9

cses

10 blocks per case

Happy Cow

71

Rice

5 lb

42

cses

50 lb per case

Tropic Rice “A”

17

Chicken Sausage

142 g tin

13

cses

48 per case

La Fe

72

Salad Cream

600 g bot

7

cses

12 per case

Heinz

18

Chicken consume

12 g sachet

87

cards

12 sachet per card

Mahler

73

Salsa Casera

220 g tin

5

cses

48 per case

La Costena

19

Chopped Ham

12 oz tin

12

cses

24 per case

Dak

74

Salt

500 g pk

3

sck

50 pks per sacks

Sol

20

Coconut milk

400 g tin

12

cses

24 per case

Grace

75

Season all

lb

16

jr

2 lb per jar

Badia

3

cses

12 boxes per case

Grace

1 lt bot

7

cses

12 per case

Grace

21

Coconut powder

22

Coconut Oil

23

Coffee

180 g bot

7

cses

15 per case

Dolca

24

Coffee

Oz

2

Bot

42.5 per bot

Maxwell

25

Complete Seasoning

oz

22

jrs

24 oz per jar

Badia

26

Condensed milk

395 g tin

10

cses

48 per case

Nestle

27

Cooking Oil

4.6 gal

16

cses

5 gal per case

Marina

28

Corn Beef

12 oz tin

9

cses

24 per case

Grace

29 30

Corn Tortillas Creamer

lb bot

100 4

lbs oz

56 oz per bot

Local Coffee Mate

31

Curry powder

lb

2

lbs

1 lb per jar

Local or import

32

Custard

box

4

cses

10 per case

Koop Mans

76

Shell pasta

200g pk

5

cses

20 per case

Ina

77

Shortening (Tube)

2 lb

12

cses

12 per case

Regia

78

Soy Sauce

5 fl oz

6

cses

12 per case

La Choy

79

Spaghetti

pk

6

cses

20 per case

Ina

80

Spaghetti & Meat Balls

15 oz tin

9

cses

24 per case

Chef Boyardee

81

Split Peas

22 lb bag

6

bgs

22 lbs per bag

Chef Choice

82

Sugar White

lb

4

scks

100 lbs per sack

Local

83

Sugar Brown

lb

3

scks

100 lb per sack

Local

84

Sugar Corn

14.75 g tin

5

cses

24 per case

Del Monte (packed/USA)

85

Tang juice

packets

7

cses

20 boxes per case

Tang

86

Tea bag

25 per box

2

cse

20 boxes per case

Red Rose

87

Tomato paste

100 g pk

6

cses

48 per case

Regia

33

Evaporated milk

378g tin

12

cses

48 per case

Carnation

34

Flour

lb

25

scks

100 lb per sack

Babe Agua

35

French Worcestershire Sauce

bot

1

cse

12 per case

Worcestershire

90

Whole Kernel corn

14.75g tin

3

cses

24 per case

Del Monte

91

Yeast (Instant)

4 x 11 g

8

cses

24 per case

Fermipan

36

Fruit Cocktail

15 oz tin

5

cses

24 per case

Del Monte (packed/USA)

37

Garlic Consume

12 g sachet

30

cards

12 sachet per card

Mahler

38

Garlic Powder

lb

18

jr

1.5 lb per jar

Badia

39

Gatorade Powder

51 oz bot

4

cses

3 per case

Gatorade

40

Hot dog sausage

12 oz per pk

15

cses

16 per case

Gwaltney

41

Jalapeno pepper

8 oz tin

4

cses

48 per case

Del Monte

88

Vanilla

32 oz bot

3

bot

each

Gary

89

Vinegar

gal

10

cses

4 gal per case

Femagra

Field ration: 92

Cereal - mini

1.31oz

4

cses

30 per case

Kellogg’s

93

Chicken Sausage

142 g tin

3

cses

48 per case

La Fe

94

Chocolate bar (sml)

fun size

1

cse

144 per case

Snicker

95

Corn Beef (small)

7 oz tin

6

cses

24 per case

Grace

96

Mint sweet

bags

2

cses

100 per case

cses

….. per case

Quaker

2

cses

50 per case

Nature Valley

42

Jam

16 oz bot

1

cses

24 per case

Del Monte

43

Juice Squash

1 lt bot

4

cses

12 per case

Marie Sharp Orange

44

Juice Squash

4

12 per case

Marie Sharp Tambran

45

Juice Squash

2

Marie Sharp Grapefruit

97

Oats (3min pkts)

packets

46

Juice Squash

2

Marie Sharp Fruit Punch

98

Protein Bar

1.2 oz

47 48

Juice Squash Ketchup

24 oz bot

4 10

cses

12 per case

Marie Sharp Pineapple Del Monte

99

Pan Creama Biscuit

106gr

4

cses

36 per case

Pan Crema

Milk packet Chocolate

10 pkts

1

cse

20 boxes per case

Swiss Miss

49

Lemon & Pepper Seasoning Salt

100

lb

1

jr

2 lb per jar

Badia

50

Luncheon meat (pork)

340 g tin

12

cses

24 per case

Grace

51

Macaroni & cheese

177g pk

10

cses

24 per case

Kraft

52

Maggie Soup

60 g pk

2

cses

12 boxes per case

Maggie

53

Margarine

16 oz tin

1

cs

24 per case

Wood & Dunn

101

Noodles - chicken

85g

6

cses

24 per case

Ramen

102

Rice

2 lbs

2

cses

20 lbs per case

Tropic Rice “A”

103

Sardines

3.75oz

3

cses

50 per case

Bumble Bee

104

Tang juice

packets

2

cses

20 boxes per case

Tang

105

Tea bag

25 per box

1

cse

20 boxes per case

Red Rose

Continued on page 27

FEB 95 APR

231 27

THE BELIZE TIMES

2023

TENDER FOR THE SUPPLY OF FOOD ITEMS AND HOUSEHOLD SUNDRIES TO THE BELIZE COAST GUARD YEAR 2023 – 24 SUNDRIES TENDERING FOR FISCAL YEAR 2022 - 23

Continued from page 26 SER

Commodities

Units

Qty

Package

Breakdown

Brand

23

Disinfectant Spray 99.9% 12.5 oz tin

3

cse

1

Air-freshener

10.5 oz tin

6

case

12 per case

Airwick

25

Mop

each

15

ea.

3

Batteries AA

pk

40

pks

4 per pk

Duracell

26

Mosquito coil

each

5

cses

60 per case

4

Batteries AAA

pk

30

pks

2 per pk

Duracell

27

Muratic acid

qt

3

cse

12 per case

Duracell

Off repellent

6 oz tin

14

cse

12 per case

Off

tin

3

cse

12 per case

Easy Off

Local

30

Paper towels

case

5

cse

30 per case

Bounty

5 per pk

Magitel

31

Plastic bag transparent

1 gal bags

4

case

100 per box

Ziploc

4 per case

Snow White

32

Plastic bag transparent

2 gal bags

6

cse

100 per box

Ziploc

33

Pledge

12 oz tin

2

cse

12 per case

Pledge

34

Pot washer

each

60

ea.

10

pks

2 per pk

1

cses

24 per case

7

Broom (plastic)

each

15

ea

8

Cleaning cloth

pk

50

pks

9

Clorox

gal

12

cse

1

cse

12 per case

Comet

750 ml bot

8

cse

12 per case

Axion

Comet w/bleach

Black

Oven cleaner

pk 1/2 lt btl

Dishwashing liquid

Heavy duty mop

28

Batteries D Battery water

10

N/A

29

5 6

12

12 per case

13

Disposable cups large

each

10

bgs

50 per bags

Biodegradable

36

Scotch brite

12 / 1ct

1

cs

14

Disposable forks

each

10

bgs

50 per bags

Biodegradable

37

Scrubbing brush

each

10

ea.

15

Disposable spoon

each

10

bgs

50 per bags

Biodegradable

38

Soap powder

5.5 kg bag

10

cses

20 per case Local 4 per case

Foca

16

Fish spray

450 ml tin

4

cse

24 per case

Fish

39

Take out tray large

each

4

cses

100 per case

Biodegradable

17

Flash disinfectant

1/2 lt tim

12

cse

20 per case

Flash

40

Take out tray small

each

3

cses

100 per case

Biodegradable

18

Foil paper

200 sq ft pk 3

cse

12 per case

Aluminium

42

Toilet paper

bale

25

bales

12 pks per bale Softy

19

Hand liquid soap

14 oz bot

6

cse

24 per case

Lucky

43

Trash bags heavy duty

14 gal bags 8

rolls

100 per roll

Lucky

20

Harpic

750 ml bot

4

cse

12 per case

Harpic

44

Trash bags heavy duty

33 gal bags 10

rolls

100 per roll

Lucky

21

Jumbo paper towel

case

3

cse

12 per case

Local - CPC

45

Vehicle air freshener

each

2

cse

24 per case

Dalan

22

Jumbo toilet tissue

case

2

cse

12 per case

Local - CPC

47

Windex

26 oz bot

4

cse

12 per case

Windex

MEAT TENDERING FOR FISCAL YEAR 2022 - 23 SER

Commodities

Units

Qty

Breakdown

1

Beef Steak (Minimal Fat)

lb

300

5lb per bag

Brand

2

Boneless Ham

lb

30

2lb per bag

3

Chicken Ham

lb

30

2lb per bag

4

Breakfast Sausage

24 oz

90

2lb per bag

5

Butt Beacon

12 oz

40

2lb per bag

6

Chicken

lb

3000

5 lbs per chicken

7

Cow Foot

lb

80

5 lb per bag

8

Boneless Chicken Breast

Lb

100

9

Fresh Fish (scale & deguts)

lb

400

10-inch head to tail

10

Ground Steak

lb

200

5lb per bag

11

Ground Chicken

lb

100

2lb per bag

12

Chicken Patty

lb

125

13

Pigtail

bucket

3

35 lb per bucket

14

Pork Chops (lean)

lb

350

5lb per bag

FRUITS AND VEGETABLES TENDERING FOR FISCAL YEAR 2022 – 23 Commodities

Units

Package

Breakdown

Brand

1

Bananas

each

box

100 per box

Fyffe’s

2

Broccoli

lb

lbs

3

Cabbage

lb

lbs

4

Cauliflower

lb

lbs

5

Carrots

lb

lbs

Local

6

Cassava

lb

lbs

Local

7

Cantelope

lb

lbs

Local

8

Celery

lb

lbs

Local

9

Cilantro

lb

lbs

Local

10

Coco

lb

lbs

Local

11

Cucumber

lb

lbs

Local

12

Eggs

each

Trays

13

Garlic

head

Heads

14

Grapefruit

sack

sack

15

Lettuce

lb

lbs

16

Lime

each

each

17

Okoro

lbs

lbs

Local

30 per tray

Local Local

100 per sack

Local Local

each

Local Local

18

Onion

lbs

sacks

50 lbs per sack

Local

Onion (Red)

lbs

sacks

50 lbs per sack

Local

19

Orange

each

sack

100 per sack

Local

20

Papaya

lb

lbs

Local

21

Pineapple

lb

lbs

Local

22

Plantain

each

each

23

Potatoes

lbs

sack

24

Sweet Pepper

lbs

lbs

Local

25

Sweet Potato

lbs

lbs

Local

26

Tomatoes

lbs

lbs

Local

27

Watermelon

each

lbs

Local

28

Callaloo

lb

29

Spinach

Lb

Lbs

Local

30

Ginger

Lb

Lbs

Local

31

Zucchini

lb

Lbs

Local

Local 110 lbs per sack

Local

Local

28

THE BELIZE TIMES

9 APR

2023