Belize Times August 14, 2022 - MSMEs Funds

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The Belize Times THE BELIZE TIMES

14 AUG

2022

Established 1957

14 AUGUST 2022 | ISSUE NO: 5313

The Truth Shall Make You Free

$40 MILLION

For Micro-Small-Medium Belizean Enterprises

Pg. 2

facebook/belizetimespress | $1.00

CROOKED Elrington fingers UDP Faber 2nds the Emotion

“Crooked” is Hubert Elrington’s most recent adjective describing Barrow’s UDP government. The misguided one often hits his target with laser precision. For his part Faber tried to call out the most recent LOO stating that rapper Barrow does not follow the UDP constitution when making decisions for the once mass party. Then Tracy echoes as Faber’s choir.

The Elrington comment though takes the cake. He openly confessed that he can say so since he was IN the government when the UDP was IN. The UDP are crooked.

Elringtons are known to be hurdlers, ambulance chasers and misguided missiles but they are also deep in the UDP stink.

These UDPs, or whatever party they

Pg. 2

Pharmacy Express Limited Withdraws Loan Request from SSB

LAND CLINIC IN PRICE BARRACKS

EDUCATION UPLIFTMENT PROJECT

Serving the People

Pg. 5

Police Deserve Commendations Quick Response in Hopkins

Pg. 5

Pg. 8

MAUDE WILLIAMS/ EXCELSIOR/GWEN LIZ/SADIE VERNON PILOT

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RECALLING PUTT PUTT!!

Site of 1st Mass Shooting

UDP MISGUIDED

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GOB takes support services to Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises in first-ever National MSME Roadshow Belmopan, August 5, 2022 The Economic Development Council (EDC), through its technical secretariat, the Public-Private Desk in the Office of the Prime Minister, is proud to highlight the official launch of the first-of-its-kind, National MSME Roadshow. The launch took place at the Best Western Plus Belize Biltmore Plaza Hotel on Friday, August 5th starting at 10:00 a.m. and featured an Access to Finance panel discussion with representatives from the Development Finance Corporation, Central Bank of Belize, the Belize Credit Union League, the National Bank of Belize as well as remarks by the Ministry of Tourism and Diaspora Relations, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and a keynote address by Prime Minister Hon. John Briceño.

The approval by Cabinet of a Micro, Small and Medium-sized Enterprise (MSME) Policy and Strategy 2022-2025, adds emphasis to the importance of the National MSME Roadshow and its alignment with the Plan Belize mandate of supporting small business growth. The National MSME Roadshow underscores the significant contribution of micro, small and medium enterprises to Belize’s economy as well as acknowledges the challenges faced by MSMEs. The roadshow has the overall objective of providing developmental support services to the MSME sector while raising public awareness of Belizean goods and services.

Specific objectives of the national outreach program include: • Supporting an enabling environment for MSME development • Improving market access and Date

14 AUG

THE BELIZE TIMES

facilitating linkages for MSMEs • Promoting buying locally to improve economic recovery • Increasing procurement of Belizean MSME goods and services by the GOB • Facilitating Access to Finance for the MSME Sector, and • Building the business capacity of MSMEs The EDC, as a champion of business climate reforms and promoter of meaningful dialogue between the public and private sectors has, together with BELTRAIDE and the Investment Policy and Compliance Unit, collaborated to deliver this significant endeavour with the vital support of strategic partners including UNDP and the Mayors Association of Belize.

The National MSME Roadshow will visit each district delivering Formalization and Access to Finance clinics for capacity-building together with agencies such as the Social Security Board, the Belize Companies and Corporate Affairs Registry, the Belize Tax Service, BELIPO, financial institutions, digital wallet and courier service providers and tourism industry associations.

The final day of the three-day events will host pop-ups for showcasing the wide array of creative and quality Belizean products and services available for especially operators in the tourism sector to consider choosing. The goal is to contribute to the economic resilience and growth of MSMEs by ensuring that they have access to support services and market opportunities.

All entrepreneurs are invited to attend the activities.

See MSME Roadshow Schedule below:

Activity/ District

Venue

5- Aug-2022

Opening Launch

Best Western Plus – Belize Biltmore

24- 26 Aug, 2022

Corozal

St. Francis Xavier School Auditorium (training); Central Park (popup) or House of Culture (HOC) + basketball court

31- Aug - 2 Sep, 2022

Orange Walk

Banquitas HOC (training) & Central Park (pop-up)

7- 9 Sep, 2022

Belize City

ITVET (training + pop-up) or Downtown for pop-up; also HOC

14- 16 Sep, 2022

Punta Gorda

SSB Conference Room (training) and Central Park (pop-up)

22- 23 Sep, 2022

Caye Caulker

Caye Caulker Village Community Center & Market Place area

28- 30 Sep, 2022

Belmopan

Civic Center & Parking lot

5-7 Oct, 2022

San Ignacio / Santa Elena

Town Hall (training) & Welcome Center (pop-up)

12- 14 Oct 2022

Placencia

Village Council Center & Football Field

19- 21 Oct, 2022

Dangriga

Sports Complex (training) & Alejo Beni Park (pop-up)

26-28 Oct 2022

San Pedro

SPHS Auditorium & Park area (Pop up)

25- Nov-2022

Belize - Best Western - Biltmore

National Entrepreneurship Convention (EntreCon): Dialogue, Business Hackathon: Blockchain, Expo.

2022

$40 MILLION

For Micro-Small-Medium Belizean Enterprises

The MSME Roadshow show is a planBelize drive to job creation and economic growth. The earnest of the government’s drive for greater MSME success convinced the International Financial Institutions that Belize is open for business. At this point, there are 40 million Belize dollars earmarked for MSMEs. The breakdown is $15M USD from the International Development Bank and $5M USD equivalent from the European Union. This bodes well for a sector that is chomping at the bit to move forward. In Belize, Covid-19 saw the arrival of the entrepreneurs and their innovation. The pandemic is largely over and these businesses are teeming and bursting at the seams to grow. This growth will need investment capital which will be offered by The Development Finance Corporation, the financial vehicle in charge.

Presently the MSME community is already to be hailed for moving the economy past the doldrums of the UDP-13 recession and the Covid-19 trickle. Public Officers and teachers have gotten back their ten per cent salary that history will show they had to sacrifice for a year so that the economy could save half a billion dollars.

PlanBelize offered 10,000 jobs and economists and observers are doing the statistics and general math to show that this number has been surpassed. Yes, the unemployment and underemployment caused by the pandemic was a chasm and filling it was the chasm re-filled. But this refilling was not automatic. It took the work of the planBelize government and all the world renowned innovation to move Belize away from the devaluation cliff and unto the flows of an economy that rebounded way before the IFI’s predicted.

Today, Belize is hailing an overhauled Agriculture sector, Tourism sector, and overall economy. All are prime examples in the region of Best Practise.

Belize as a country is an overall example of Best Practise especially with a World-Class award for the Blue Bond—unequalled globally.

CROOKED Elrington fingers UDP Faber 2nds the Emotion

Continued on page 1

dabbled with, were entangled in the UDP mire that has led to the extinction of that once rolling mass party. The juicy party of this story is that the ole alligator was cornered by a mere question and again had to re-spill a well-known truth: the corruption of the UDP. It is well-documented that the UDP's asteroid was unbridled corruption.

Incompetence at executing any program for the Belizean people was nothing short of criminal in some instances. So since the UDP could not serve the people all they did was serve themselves and their family and friends.

Elrington had blurted before that Barrow was "All glitter and no substance."

He, Elrington, had also alluded the UDP Cabinet as

“scum” and “run by idiots.”

Each time he was accurate and his UDP damning adjectives have stood the test of time.

The Belize Times

Established 1957

14 APR 2013

|

ISSUE NO: 4840

The Truth Shall Make You Free

www.belizetimes.bz

|

$1.00

serving Belize since 1957 as the longest continuous newspaper.

Founder: Rt. Hon. George Cadle Price, People’s United Party Leader Emeritus OFFICE MANAGER

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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

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2022

THE BELIZE TIMES

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EDITORIAL

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PUP DAH LOVE

here is big trouble in little Bel-China. The UDP is fractured into so many warring factions, it is hard to keep up. It has become a free for all melee, with even very veteran combatants stepping into the fray. One must recognize that this show is perversely entertaining. As the soap opera unravels, it is tough to pinpoint exactly who the villain, the leading lady, or the hero is. We all know this drama will not have a happy ending for any of its protagonists, but we cannot seem to look away no matter how gruesome the scenes become. The past Leader of the Opposition and the current Leader of the Opposition has broken off the short-lived truce. The story on social media showed them only two weeks ago singing Kumbaya and pretending that all was good and fine.

There is too much time and frankly entirely too much energy expended on the current vendettas waging in the UDP. The lies, secrets and corruption are being exposed from within. Every other day Delroy posts another of his infomercials exposing a bit more. He seems to be aiming for the complete and utter destruction of his party with a vision to rebuild from scratch. There may be much merit to his argument. It is doubtful that the weakness in current and past leadership can provide the stability and foundation required for democracy and sustainability of a mass political party.

Not to be outdone, the former leader has also come out with some very concerning allegations of threats of violence, purportedly coming from the current leader’s camp.

The leader’s camp now involves the other disgraced and ousted former leader. Among the three leaders, past and present they have created the darkest triumvirate. They are intent on playing their own deadly version of the Game of Thrones. We hope no one loses their head over this one.

We are not complaining, it allows us to keep focused, working, and delivering on Plan Belize. While the UDP are all absorbed in their party tricks and games, the PUP Government is hard at work. The MSME Roadshow is underway and promises to usher in a dynamic era for entrepreneurs in Belize. When we allow an environment that is conducive for Belizeans to invest their innovation, skills, and effort, the economy is strengthened. This is just one of the initiatives of this PUP Government to ensure that people have the skills and support to create their own employment and increase their standard of living. Supporting and growing the middle class ensures that the socio-economic gaps that exist are bridged and that the levels of poverty and unemployment are significantly reduced. The cycle of poverty and violence must be broken. The PUP is hard at work not at war. PUP dah love!

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THE BELIZE TIMES

en Español EDITORIAL EL PUP ES AMOR

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14 AUG

2022

ay grandes problemas en la pequeña Bel-China. El UDP está dividido en tantas facciones beligerantes que es difícil seguir el ritmo. Se ha convertido en una lucha cuerpo a cuerpo, en la que hay incluso combatientes muy veteranos en liza. Hay que reconocer que este espectáculo es perversamente divertido. A medida que el culebrón se desenvuelve, es difícil precisar quién es el villano, la protagonista o el héroe. Todos sabemos que este drama no tendrá un final feliz para ninguno de sus protagonistas, pero no parecemos poder apartar la vista por muy truculentas que sean las escenas. El anterior líder de la oposición y el actual han roto la efímera tregua. La historia en las redes sociales los mostraba hace sólo dos semanas cantando Kumbaya y fingiendo que todo era bueno y estaba bien.

Hay demasiado tiempo y, francamente, demasiada energía gastada en las actuales vendettas que se libran en el UDP. Las mentiras, los secretos y la corrupción están siendo expuestos desde dentro. Cada dos días Delroy publica otro de sus infomerciales exponiendo un poco más. Parece que pretende la destrucción total y absoluta de su partido con la visión de reconstruirlo desde cero. Puede haber gran mérito en su argumento.

Es dudoso que la debilidad del liderazgo actual y el pasado pueda proporcionar la estabilidad y los cimientos necesarios para la democracia y la sostenibilidad de un partido político de masas. Para no quedarse atrás, el antiguo líder también ha salido con algunas acusaciones muy preocupantes de amenazas de violencia, supuestamente procedentes de la facción del actual líder. La facción del líder incluye ahora al otro exlíder caído en desgracia y destituido. Entre los tres líderes, pasados y presentes, han creado el triunvirato más oscuro. Están decididos en jugar su propia versión mortal del Juego de Tronos.

Esperamos que nadie pierda la cabeza por esto.

No nos quejamos, eso nos permite seguir centrados, trabajando y cumpliendo el Plan Belice. Mientras el UDP se encuentra absorto en sus trucos y juegos de partido, el Gobierno del PUP está trabajando duro. La gira de las MIPYME está en marcha y promete marcar el comienzo de una era dinámica para los empresarios de Belice. Cuando permitimos un entorno propicio para que los beliceños inviertan su innovación, sus habilidades y su esfuerzo, la economía se fortalece. Esta es sólo una de las iniciativas de este Gobierno del PUP para garantizar que la gente tenga las habilidades y el apoyo para crear su propio empleo y aumentar su nivel de vida. Apoyar y hacer crecer la clase media asegura que se acorten las brechas socioeconómicas que existen y que se reduzcan significativamente los niveles de pobreza y desempleo. Hay que romper el ciclo de pobreza y violencia. El PUP está dándole duro al trabajo, no a la guerra. ¡PUP dah love!

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THE BELIZE TIMES

2022

Serving the People and creating a hotbed of seedlings

The planBelize mobile Lands Clinic was in action this past week shoulder to shoulder with our soldiers at their home in Price Barracks. This is unique at so many levels and so obvious are the social implications. As in the Deputy Prime Minister’s previous iterations albeit in constituencies of the same this was also a great success. The number of elation stories were similar for the men and women in the Belize Defense Force who have found themselves marginalized in the past from SSB, Land and other things that should be taken for granted.

How could the UDP have had so many people in distress and living in

limbo is still a question? The number of lives changed at planBelize mobile land clinics are beyond normal count and the impact is definitely immeasurable. Families and now the BDF families that had met stonewalls under the UDP government suddenly see a path to owning their little piece of the jewel that is now being called a gem. Soldiers will now sleep better even as they see their building systematically being retrofitted and renovated all over the country. Just like the houses being issued by the MIDH to one family at a time the land clinics fix the UDP’s hotbed of corruption one constituency at a

Police Deserve Commendations Quick Response in Hopkins

It is definitely not too late to commend the quick arrests in the Hopkins shooting. Yes, it was aided by an attorney but the police were on the ball.

The shooting incident that took place in Hopkins Village in the wee hours of Sunday, July 31, was an isolated attack, spurred according to police by a dispute between the four accused men and one of the deceased men over a woman in the Wabinaha nightclub where it occurred.

While the incident itself was heinous, had the police not responded so quickly, it could have ended far worse. As a matter of fact, police reports are that three police officers who got shot at the bar were actually on patrol and had just stopped in to check on things when three assailants entered and opened fire at the patrons.

Noah Moro, 23; and Honduran na-

tional, Emilio Garcia, 56, were killed.

Moro had reportedly intervened just minutes earlier when one of the assailants made sexual advances upon his girlfriend and she rejected them.

There was an exchange of words and the assailants left and returned shortly after with the guns with which they committed the act.

Emilio Garcia was shot when he tried to close the doors of the club to block the gunshots. In addition to him and Moro who were killed, three police officers and five more persons also suffered varying degrees of injury.

Police arrested retired Canadian soldier, John Roy Smith, 43, in what they say was one of two get-away vehicles. He along with the other three accused, Brian Andrews, 28, Kenyon Moore, 28, and Sherwin Moore, 35, are all charged with the two murders and attempted murder of the eight

time.

There is always more work left but a lot was accomplished. In the near future and beyond, as has been happening for a year or so now, hundreds of Belizeans will receive the documents that have been pending for so many years.

The Hon. Florencio Marin, the Hon. Oscar Mira, the Hon. Cordel Hyde and the PUP: Delivering on PlanBelize by making government services accessible to the constituents directly where they live. They are serving the people and making the hotbed germinate seedlings of prosperity as this department should be doing. persons who were wounded.

Prime Minister John Briceño has described the incident as "unBelizean", pointing to the village as an otherwise quiet, peaceful fishing community.

Hopkins has been highlighted in various international travel blogs and magazines as an ideal tourism getaway, rich in the Garifuna culture.

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THE BELIZE TIMES

2022

NOTICE GOVERNMENT OF BELIZE TREASURY BILLS ISSUE NUMBER 9/2022 Tenders are invited for an issue of Government of Belize Treasury Bills.

The amount of the issue will be $67,408,200.

MINISTRY OF HEALTH & WELLNESS VACANCY NOTICE

The Bills will be issued in electronic form only evidenced by an electronic book entry in the Central Securities Depository of the Central Bank of Belize in multiples of $200 and will be repayable at par 91 days after issue.

They will be issued on Wednesday, 17 August 2022 and will be redeemed on Wednesday, 16 November 2022.

Applications are invited from suitably qualified persons to fill the post of Chief Drug Inspector, Ministry of Health & Wellness.

Each tender must be for $200 or a multiple of $200 and must specify to five decimal places the amount, which is offered for each one hundred dollars face value of the Bills sought.

Salary Pay Scale: 23 of $36,554 × 1480 -$64,674

Qualification: Recognized Master’s Degree in Pharmacy or related field. Must be a Deadline:

registered Pharmacist with five (5) plus years’ experience as a pharmacist.

August 19, 2022 Application with two (2) references and copies of qualifications to be submitted to: Chief Executive Officer Ministry of Health & Wellness 3rd Floor, East Block Building Belmopan

(N.B. complete details on this position can be viewed at https:// jobs.publicservice.gov.bz/)

Members of the public who wish to participate in the auction must submit their bid to the Central Bank of Belize electronically or at the designated drop off box no later than 12:00 noon on Friday, 12 August 2022.

The Auction in the Central Securities Depository System (CSD) will be opened from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm on Wednesday, 17 August 2022.

Successful bidders should arrange to settle via the Automated Payment & Securities Settlement System of Belize (APSSS).

Bank: Central Bank of Belize Account: GLICORP0402627 The Government of Belize reserves the right to accept or reject any and/or all tenders in whole or in part.

CENTRAL BANK OF BELIZE

bz)

Notices are placed on Central Bank of Belize Website (www.centralbank.org.

27 July 2022

CARTOON

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2022

THE BELIZE TIMES

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Prime Minister John Briceño Restore Belize Scholarship Award Ceremony August 12, 2022 at the Hub

Good morning.

You know it’s a great privilege to serve as Prime Minister. In a world of almost eight billion people less than 200 of us get to be a head of state or head of government. Now, I am not going to get political, but the motto of my Party is one I believe every leader or Prime Minister should live by, that is to “Serve the People.”

So yes, my job as Prime Minister is that of a servant. I try to remind myself of this, every day. Of course, in my daily work as Prime Minister, serving the people often comes with many challenges including the fact that no two days are the same. In this job, I must accept that there are days when no matter how hard I work or how hard I try, things can and will go wrong and there will be very bad days. For example, you never know when some disaster will strike, or when a tragic event will occur. I guess, I should have expected this kind of unpredictability when right after getting elected to office, I caught COVID for the first time and was locked up in my room by my wife for two weeks. Of course, that was nothing compared to that very sad day when we lost 10 persons to COVID in a single day. Another day I will not forget is what happened just about two weeks ago when a bunch of gun men shot up a night club in Hopkins. That terrible event resulted in two persons dead and 8 injured included a 15-year-old girl. Those days were tough days, and in this job, tough days occur more frequently than you could imagine. So now you can see why, in less than two years, I have less hair and of what little is left of my hair, there are so much more gray hairs now than when I became Prime Minister in November 2020.

But then there are those days like TODAY, those moments like THIS MOMENT, when I feel I have the greatest job in the world. Why? Because on days like this one, at this moment, we get to build upon the present and, at the same time, shape the future. Simply put, we get to be a part of something really special. So YES, I am truly happy to join you at this Awards Ceremony and to share this moment with parents, friends and especially with you, the 21 Awardees.

Before I go any further let me join those who spoke before me in thanking our donors and sponsors who not only support but believe in the good that this amazing program is doing for our young people and for our country. Ms. Christine, you and your team here at Retore Belize deserve our gratitude and appreciation. Thank you for your service.

My friends, this Awards Ceremony celebrates the success of these wonderful young Belizeans but it does so much more than that. It is an event that showcases our belief in social justice. It is proof positive that when we believe in the indomitable Belizean spirit; when we believe in each other -- everybody wins, todos ganamos.

Here before us are 21 young Belizeans who as far as I am concerned “done win,” they have already beaten the odds because even though it was easier to quit, they decided not to give up and today they have prevailed. This is how we build character, how we progress and how we grow as a nation. This ‘I am Belize Program’ was not started by my government, but it is special and, so, we will continue to support it because it is the right thing to do. We will continue to support this program because it serves those among us who others times tend to be overlooked or dismissed, but who deserve the opportunity to be better.

We will continue to support this program because if we are going to build a Belize that works for everyone, then we need every Belizean engaged and involved in the task of nation building.

WE CAN’T AFFORD TO LEAVE ANYONE BEHIND. Today 21 more young Belizeans are showing us that if given a chance they can contribute to building this nation. When you think about it, they have already started the work of nation building by defying the odds – by choosing to do something positive rather than giving in to street violence and gang lifestyle. They are showing us that if their families stand by them, and if their community supports them, they too can take advantage of opportunities and can break the cycle of poverty and as such make their lives and the lives of their families better. This is what this initiative is about; this is what Plan Belize is about -- providing the opportunity for our people to uplift their lives and the lives of those around them. To the parents, guardians, family members, friends, donors, and all those involved in Restore Belize I say: let us continue to support these young people and let us continue to support this program.

I started by saying how happy I was to be here. Let me also say that today is a good day to be your Prime Minister. I leave here more convinced than ever before that our best days are ahead of us, and I thank all of you for being a part of the lives of these 21 Awardees.

And to the 21 Awardees: remember that this is just the beginning. Don’t give up!

Don’t look back.

Keep moving forward secure in the knowledge that with the guidance of our Creator, with hard work, and a can-do spirit, you can make Belize and the world a better place.

Congratulations! God Bless you and God bless Belize.

I thank you.

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THE BELIZE TIMES

MOHW Train 37 New Health Workers PM Briceño: My Administration is committed to meeting the needs of the people in all sectors.

I congratulate the Ministry of Health & Wellness as completed trainings have added 37 new community health workers to serve our people in Southern Belize.

---12 new Community Health Workers to complement those already of the Punta Gorda Community Hospital.

---25 new Community Health

Social Security Board's Statement Reference Pharmacy Express Limited (PEL) City of Belmopan, August 11, 2022-As per the Third Schedule (Investment Framework) of the Social Security Act, CAP.44 of the Laws of Belize, a notice was previously published informing of the Social Security Board's (SSB) intention to provide a $7.0M loan facility to Pharmacy Express Limited (PEL) for the purposes of re-financing and inventory purchases. At the end of the period set for public notice, the SSB had only received one written expression of concern which came from the Ministry of Health and Wellness (MOHW). The MOH W's objection was on the basis that presently PEL is not in possession of a phannaceutical license to operate and therefore the entity was operating without a license and should not be dispensing or supplying pharmaceuticals to the public.

In line with the principles of natural justice, after reviewing the claims made by the MOHW, a letter was sent to PEL, detailing the objections made and providing them with an opportunity to make representation by August IO'h,2022, denying or qualifying the claims made by the MOHW. At the time of this release, the SSB was not in receipt of any response in relation to our inquiries.

Nevertheless, on August 9'\ 2022, by a letter written to the Chief Executive Officer of SSB, PEL infonned that they were withdrawing their loan application, to which the SSB responded by accepting same. Consequently, this brings the loan approval process and the inquiry, in relation to the PEL matter to an end.

The SSB takes this opportunity to express its profound gratitude to the public for being engaged in this process, thereby strengthening the investment process, and contributing to our goals of good governance and accountability. Though it is our mandate to ensure the long-tenn sustainability of the Social Security Fund, through the investment of its reserves, the primary objective remains the Fund's safety and profitability.

Workers (CHWs) to complement the existing cadre of CHWs of the Southern Regional Hospital in Dangriga CHWs play an essential role along the provider continuum---building strong community support, increasing awareness and helping to overcome sociocultural barriers associated to public health issues. This is important even as we battle the existing Covid-19 pandemic and Monkey Pox has been declared a world health concern. #PlanBelize working in all sectors for all Belizeans. JOIN Us!!!

12 new Community Health Workers

25 new Community Health Workers

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2022

THE BELIZE TIMES

Remembering Belize's First Mass Shooting

For those who would like to wish it away or help you to forget it, we hereby refresh your memory: Belize's first and biggest mass shooting to date happened in 2008 at the Putt Putt Bar & Grill, a nightspot on Newtown Barracks that was owned and operated by the shameless hurdler and the UDP's caretaker of the Freetown constituency, Orson Elrington.

The shooting spilled into other shootings that fateful morning.

Altogether, the two young women lost their lives, including a young female bartender that Elrington hired. The other was a 17-yearold minor who was at the nightspot and left after the shooting.

She was shot while walking home from the nightspot along with others. Thirteen persons were left wounded when all the dust had settled.

The events of that morning spiraled into three parts: the first being Belize's first-ever mass shooting at the Putt Putt sometime after 2:00 on a Saturday morning, in February when the place was crowded and people were dancing. It involved members of two of Belize City's street gangs, the George Street Crew and Back A Town. Police later gathered that a hit had been placed on a Back A Town affiliate, but the members of that gang got wind of the information early enough to launch an offensive strike on the unsuspecting George Street members who were partying at the Putt Putt. Police reported that a group of persons from Brick City, which is located in the same Lake Independence area, passed in front of the nightclub and that a few of them went to the side and the back of the establishment and opened fire into the crowd.

That was when Deandra Zetina, 19, who had just returned to her part-time job as bartender, was shot and killed. She was one of ten who suffered gunshots at the Putt Putt. The mayhem did not end there. About 15 minutes later, while a group of four youths who were at the nightspot left and were walking home, they too came under fire on the Belcan Bridge. That was when the second young woman, Michelle Cattouse, 17, was shot and killed on the bridge. Police at the time indicated that the other three persons shot on the bridge were associates of the Back-A-Town area. The information at the time was that the shooters of the Belcan Bridge attack were in a dark-coloured car and spotted their targets walking and took revenge.

A third shooting after 4:00 that morning on Raccoon Street Extension was also thought to be linked to the previous two shootings and police charged Leroy

Ramsey with two counts of attempted murder for the Raccoon Street attack. He was the only accused who was found guilty.

Jason King and Charles Moss who were charged with Zetina's murder and the wounding of the others at Putt Putt, were eventually freed of the murder charge because the prosecution failed to provide the defense with disclosure of evidence by the date given by the court.

Roy Felix Bennett was charged

Cattouse's murder and the attempted murder of the other four who were shot on the bridge. Those charged were also later dropped.

The incident at the Putt Putt might have resulted in even more carnage were it not for a police officer at the nightclub who used his licensed firearm to shoot at the gunmen, warding them off.

What seemed like a joke of an interview he gave following the shooting at his establishment, Elrington said that after he got the

099 call about the shooting, he thought he was in a nightmare, offering comfort to the survivors and relatives of those shot at his nightspot, which was eventually closed down.

Elrington and the UDP would want everyone to forget the mayhem that erupted at the Putt Putt nightspot when the truth is that the worst and biggest mass shooting in the history of this country started from an establishment that he operated, and then spilled into retaliatory shootings in the city that morning.

It definitely does not matter which was the first or second. It matters when the UDPs lie to accommodate a falsehood-ridden political agenda. People deserve the truth.

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2022

BTB Presents: Mexican Top Influencer in the Jewel Mariel de Viaje is in Belize! Mariel Galan is a Mexican influencer recently recognized as one of Mexico's top influencers conquering the world. She is a journalist, travel blogger, and media personality specializing in tourism and travel.

Mariel de Viaje presently has 199K followers on Instagram, 221K followers on Facebook, and 549K subscribers on Youtube.

She will experience our rich culture and explore our bountiful reef during her stay in Belize.

Follow her social media platforms to check out content about her trip!

BTB Wooing Canada The Belize delegation continued with their visits in Canada, meeting with existing airline partners to check in on how the current routes are doing and learn of how we can foster future growth in existing and possible new air routes. The team also met with airline marketing teams to discuss how we can collaborate to build awareness in the Canadian market and grow new Air routes.

Belize delegation- Hon. Anthony Mahler (Minister of Tourism and Diaspora Relations), Mr. Evan Tillett (Director of Tourism, BTB), Mr. Anthony Hunt (Chairman, Aviation Development Committee-ADC), Ms. Pamela Laite (Development Counsellors International) and Mr. Nicolas Gurwicz (VP, Campbell-Hill Aviation Group).

BELIZEPROPERTYAUCTIONS.COM COUNTRYWIDE PUBLIC AUCTION SALE : PROPERTY Pomona Village, Stann Creek District

BY ORDER of the Mortgagees Messrs. The Belize Bank Limited, Licensed Auctioneers Kevin A. Castillo and Christiana R. Castillo are selling ONLINE via belizepropertyauctions.com the following property. Sale currently running until 15 th October 2022 2022. Public Auction Sales will expire fortnightly on the dates and times listed on the website until this property is sold.

ALL THAT piece or parcel of land being Lot No. 55 comprising of 835.844 square metres situate in Pomona Village, Stann Creek District, bounded and described as shown by Plan No. 1493 of 2006 attached to Minister’s Fiat Grant No. 1493 of 2006 TOGETHER with all buildings and erections standing and being thereon. (Being a concrete bungalow dwelling house [1,100 sq. ft.] containing 2 bedrooms + 1 bathroom + living/dining/kitchen + 2 Verandas and Lot [.21 acres (835.844 S.M.] situate in Pomona Village, Stann Creek District, the freehold property of Mr. Levan Borland)

“FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION & PHOTOGRAPHS PLEASE VISIT WEBSITE” TERMS: STRICTLY CASH

INTEREST IN SEAFOOD IMPORTATION INTO TAIWAN August 10th, 2022: Members of the business community of the City of Kaohsiung and Pingtung Township invited Ambassador Dr. Candice Augusta Pitts to visit and meet with the owners of: 1. Ji You Fish Processing Factory 2.Jhao Fong Fishery Co., LTD. 3.Hai Gwuan Co., LTD., and 4.Chien Yuan Shipbuilding Co., LTD. These companies are interested in importing seafood products and establishing business relations between Belize and their companies.

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

NORTHERN MEDICAL Specialty PLAZA ORCHID DRIVE, B.S.I. AREA, ORANGE WALK TOWN, BELIZE PHONE: 302-3708 Northern Medical Plaza invites applications from experienced, dynamic, energetic, self-motivated and professional individuals for the following vacancies Anesthesiologist Radiologist X-ray-Technician Qualification General Practitioner with specialty in Anesthesiology.

General Practitioner with specialty in Radiology.

Bachelor’s degree in Radiology Technician Requirements Anesthesiologist must be registered with the Belize Medical Council.

Radiologist must be registered with the Belize Medical Council.

Xray Technician must have 3years experience in Mammography and Ct-Scan.

X-ray-Technician must be accredited by Ministry of Health as an X-ray Technician.

Applications close: August 15, 2022 Please submit application letter and three References to: northernmedical@live.com Human Resource Manager Northern Medical Specialty Plaza Ltd. Orchid Drive, BSI Area Orange Walk Town

14 AUG

2022

THE BELIZE TIMES

EDUCATION UPLIFTMENT PROJECT Minister Francis Fonseca: If you are a young person who just completed primary school and are interested in going to one of the following high schools in Belize City, I encourage you and your family to find out more about our Education Upliftment Project starting this year in these 4 Government High Schools.

TOGETHER WE RISE! Take advantage of this excellent opportunity to receive a quality education!

FREE TUITION HEALTHY START FEEDING PROGRAM STUDENT SUPPORT (UNIFORMS, ETC) BOOKS/DIGITAL DEVICES

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BELIZE SOCIAL INVESTMENT FUND TENDER NOTICE Country: Belize Project: CARICOM Development Fund Grant No: BZE/ G00011 Project ID: CDF/00011/5 Contract Number: W/CDF-02/2022 National Competitive Bidding (NCB) Deadline: September 5, 2022 1. The Government of Belize has received funding through the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) towards the cost of Eligible Sub-projects and intends to apply part of the funds to cover eligible payments under the contract for Design, Supply and Installation of a Reverse Osmosis Purification Water Supply System for Chunox Village, Corozal District, Belize.

2. The Social Investment Fund, a Statutory Corporation, established under the Social Investment Fund Act No. 3 of 1996 and located at Constitution Drive, Belmopan, Cayo District, hereby invites tenders from suitably qualified contractors for the construction of the following: The contract proposes to: The contract proposes to design, supply and installation services for a reverse osmosis purification water supply system for the Chunox Village, Corozal District.

The system is desired to be connected to the village water well, along with being able to produce an estimated output of a minimum of 50,000 gallons per day to provide water to 425 households. Shall also include the provision of all designs (civil, mechanical, electrical, etc.) and any other designs needed for the optimal and efficient functioning of the reverse osmosis purification water supply system; Reference shall be made to the proposed electrical design for the Chunox pump house.

3. Final (Project Site) Destination as specified in BDS: Belmopan, Cayo District, Belize.

4. Belize Social Investment Fund now invites sealed bids from eligible and qualified bidders for the construction works in the aforementioned areas.

5. Bidding will be conducted through the National Competitive Bidding (NCB) procedures specified in the CARICOM Development Fund’s Guidelines for Procurement (May 2010), and are open to all countries of the world are eligible to tender for this contract.

6. Qualification requirements include (a) The bidder shall furnish unaudited or audited financial statements (balance sheets with corresponding notes, income statement, and statements of cash flow) of the firm for years 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020 and 2021 to demonstrate the current soundness of the bidder’s financial position (b) Bidders should have general experience under contracts in the role of contractor, JV member, subcontractor, or management contractor for the years 2019, 2020 and 2021 with activity of at least five (5) months in each year starting 1st January, 2019 (c) Bidders should have specific experience as a prime contractor, joint venture member, management contractor, or subcontractor, between 1st January 2011 and the bid submission deadline and should have less than or equal to four (4) contracts, each of a minimum value of BZ$125,000.00, but with a total value of all contracts equal or more than BZ$500,000.00 (d) demonstrate cash flow requirement: capacity to have a cash flow amount of BZ$42,000.00 of which not more than BZ$21,000.00 can be credit for materials (e) an average annual turnover of BZ$500,000.00 which shall be calculated as total certified payments received for contracts completed within the best two (2) years of the years 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020 and 2021 (e) other provided in the respective Bid Documents.

7. A secured “sample” electronic Bid document can be shared with interested Bidders at the address below, starting August 8th, 2022, on week days between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. for viewing purpose only (has a time restriction for viewing).

A complete set of Bidding documents (hard-copy or electronic version) can be purchased by interested bidder upon payment of a non-refundable fee of BZ$150.00.

Requests may be made by personal application or in writing to the address below.

Written applications must be clearly marked: “Design, Supply, and Installation of a Reverse Osmosis Purification Water Supply System for Chunox Village, Corozal District, Belize”. The method of payment will be by cash deposited to, or Bank transfer to BSIF’s Bank Account only. Banking details can be requested at the address below. Cash payment will not be accepted at the BSIF Office.

8. Deadline for bids is at or before 10:00 a.m., September 5th, 2022 at the address below. Bids will be opened at 10:15 a.m., September 5th, 2022 at the Social Investment Fund, 3rd Floor, #1902 Constitution Drive, Belmopan, Cayo District in the presence of the bidders' representatives who choose to participate. Electronic bidding will not be permitted. Late bids will be rejected. All bids must be accompanied by a "Bid Security" of BZ$ 5,000.00 or an equivalent amount in a freely convertible currency or Bank Guarantee. The bid validity period is 90 days.

9. A Virtual Pre-bid meeting with interested eligible bidders will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, August 23rd, 2022. The link is https://bit.ly/31ACuQU. Bidders can participate in the meeting to address any queries about the bidding document or the scope of works. Persons who purchase packages are urged to attend.

10. The address referred to above is:

Contact: Ms. Ruby Pascascio Senior Procurement Officer Social Investment Fund 3rd Floor, #1902 Constitution Drive Belmopan Cayo District Tel: 822-0239/822-0508 E-mail: ruby.pascascio@sifbelize.org cc: carlos.tun@sifbelize.org therese.arzu@sifbelize.org

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14 AUG

THE BELIZE TIMES

IMPACT JUSTICE SUPPORTS LAW REVISION EFFORTS OF BELIZE

2022

IMPACT Justice Donates Law Books to 11 Belizean Magistrates’ Courts

BRIDGETOWN – August 8, 2022 – The Canadian Government-funded Improved Access to Justice in the Caribbean (IMPACT Justice) Project is presently assisting the Government of Belize with the revision of its subsidiary laws, which were last revised in 2003 and will now be brought up to date to December 31, 2020. The Regional Law Revision Centre Inc. (the “Centre”), a non-profit incorporated in Anguilla, will undertake the revision on behalf of the IMPACT Justice Project and the Government of Belize.

In requesting the assistance of IMPACT Justice in this exercise, Hon. Magali Young, SC, Attorney General of Belize, mentioned that since these laws had not been revised in over 18 years, it was of critical importance that the exercise be undertaken in order to improve not only the efficiency of the legal system but also ensure certainty of the law for citizens, legal practitioners and even law enforcement.

The exercise being funded by the IMPACT Justice Project will include the revision of 101 pieces of subsidiary legislation. The project started in June 2022 and is expected to conclude by March 2023.

IMPACT Justice Project has donated a number of key legal texts to the Magistrates’ Courts of Belize. This donation is in response to one of the recommendations coming out of a ‘Situational Analysis of the Magistrates’ Courts of Belize’ which was commissioned by the IMPACT Justice Project in mid-2021 at the request of Hon. Magali Young, SC, Attorney General of Belize.

The study, which was concluded in January 2022, was undertaken by consultants Hon. Mr. Justice Dennis Morrison, QC, President of the Court of Appeal of the Turks and Caicos Islands, Justice of Appeal of the Cayman Islands, former President of the Court of Appeal of Jamaica and former judge of the Belize Court of Appeal and Mr. Godfrey Smith, former Judge of the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court, and currently a private practitioner in Belize.

In total, 88 books (8 per magistrate’s court) have been purchased on topics including the Interpretation of Contracts, Commonwealth Caribbean Criminal Practice and Procedure, Commonwealth Caribbean Property Law, Commonwealth Caribbean Tort Law, Commonwealth Caribbean Family Law, Commonwealth Caribbean Land Law, Criminal Evidence and Money Laundering.

The Office of the Chief Justice of Belize will be accepting the law books on behalf of the Magistracy.

BELIZEPROPERTYAUCTIONS.COM COUNTRYWIDE PUBLIC AUCTION SALE : AIRCRAFT Pomona Village, Stann Creek District

FREE VISION CLINIC Hosted by the PUP Fort George and Fort George Women’s Group Under the expertise of Eye Specialist,

BY ORDER of the Asset & Utilities Unit, Ministry of Finance, Government of Belize, Licensed Auctioneer Kevin A. Castillo is selling ONLINE via belizepropertyauctions.com the below described aircraft. Sales currently running until 15th October 2022. Public Auction Sales will expire fortnightly on the dates and times listed on the website until this aircraft is sold.

Gulfstream G2 Aircraft

Dr. Amin Hegar

Date: Saturday August 20 commencing at 2 p.m.

Location: Fort George Resource Center.

Corner of Queen Street and Gabourel Lane To register: Contact Mrs. Yolanda Fonseca At 625-4400

N.B. - Terms of Sale listed on website

“FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION & PHOTOGRAPHS PLEASE VISIT WEBSITE” TERMS: STRICTLY CASH

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

Take advantage of getting your eye checked don’t miss out on this opportunity!!!

AMENDMENT No. 1 NATIONAL PUBLIC BIDDING PROCESS Nº CABEI-G-007-2147/2022 Procurement, Installation and Connectivity to Fiber Optic Grid of Fifty (50) Surveillance Cameras and all associated equipment (Monitors, DVRs, etc.)

Currently reads 3.3 Presentation of the Procurement Process Section II Bidding Data 9.1

Section II Bidding Data 24.1

To be read from now on

Introduction (Extension of Deadline Submission) Specific Procurement Notice Bids for this invitation to bid shall be received no later than 3.3 Presentation Bids for this invitation to bid shall be received no later than September 7th, August 17th, 2022, by 9:00 a.m. at the following physical of the Procure- 2022, by 9:00 a.m. at the following physical address below address below ment Process Section II. Bidding Data (BD) The deadline for consultations and clarifications is as follows: Section II The deadline for consultations and clarifications is as follows: a. Clarifications must be sought no later than Wednesday, Bidding Data a. Clarifications must be sought no later than Monday August 29th, 2022. rd August 3 , 2022.

9.1 b. The Buyer shall respond to the queries of the bidders for the preparation b. The Buyer shall respond to the queries of the bidders of their bids no later than Friday September 2nd, 2022. for the preparation of their bids no later than Friday August 5th, 2022. a.

Bids must be received no later than Wednesday, August 17th, 2022, by 9:00 a.m. at the address detailed in BD 23.2 (b) b.

The deadline for the preparation of bids will be 31 days.

Section II Bidding Data 24.1

a.

Bids must be received no later than Wednesday, September 7th, 2022, by 9:00 a.m. at the address detailed in BD 23.2 (b) b.

The deadline for the preparation of bids will be 52 days.

14 AUG

2022

MHDFIP Statement in Honour of the International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples On August 9, 2022, the International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples was observed.

The theme for this year is “The Role of Indigenous Women in the Preservation and Transmission of Traditional Knowledge.” The Ministry of Human Development, Families and Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs acknowledges and celebrates our Garifuna, Mopan, Q’eqchi’ and Yucatec people, and in keeping with the theme, we honour our indigenous women’s rich traditional knowledge of the natural world, health, traditional technologies, distinct rites and rituals, and other cultural expressions.

Our indigenous women have, generation after generation, passed on this traditional knowledge, which is a precious part of Belizean cultural heritage. In recognizing our indigenous women as custodians of traditional knowledge, we are cognizant

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THE BELIZE TIMES

that much needs to be done to protect their rights. This is especially true in consideration of indigenous women’s roles to produce, safeguard, and maintain fragile resources, both natural and cultural, particularly indigenous languages. Indigenous women’s voices therefore

need to be heard, especially in the development of policies on cultural heritage and cultural expression.

The Government of Belize seeks to empower indigenous women to become decision-makers on issues relating to their full environments. In collaboration

with indigenous communities, the ministry encourages an atmosphere that supports these women to create, produce, disseminate, distribute, and have access to their own cultural expressions.

On this International Day for the World’s Indigenous Peoples, we pledge our support for indigenous women to participate meaningfully in deciding how their heritage is expressed, managed and maintained for the benefit of their families and communities.

On August 9, we salute all indigenous women as national treasures of our country.

ASSISTANT MANAGER, ACCOUNTS AND BUDGET

The Central Bank invites qualified individuals to join its Accounts and Budget Department.

The Assistant Manager, Accounts and Budget, provides support to the Manager, Accounts and Budget, in the general administration of the Accounts and Budget Department. The incumbent assists in supervising the department’s staff, administering vault custodian functions, providing advice on the Central Bank’s performance, producing Central Bank’s financial statements, ensuring compliance with the relevant requirements of the applicable laws, and ensuring conformity with the department’s policies and procedures to mitigate operational and financial risks.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

▪ ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪

Assist in the development and implementation of goals, priorities, procedures, and internal controls necessary for auditing, budget, financial analysis, and property management in accordance with the general accepted accounting principles, policies, procedures, and other applicable Bank rules and guidelines; Perform vault operations as the principal vault custodian; Prepare and disseminate monthly reports of the Bank’s financial performance to the governing body; Assist in the preparation of the Central Bank’s audited financial statement in collaboration with external auditors and in compliance with Central Bank of Belize Act, International Financial Reporting Standards, and other relevant legislations; Assist in the preparation of the Central Bank’s annual and revised budget and manage the processing of all revenue and expenditures of the Bank; Manage and ensure the effectiveness and efficiency of the Central Bank’s payment and procurement operations within the framework of established systems, procedures, and internal controls; Ensure effective time management in preparation of all reports and reconciliations prepared by staff within the department; and Perform any other related duties that may be assigned.

The applicants should possess the following: EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

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.

▪

A Master’s Degree in Accounting, Finance, Banking, Business Administration, or other related field from a recognized university with three (3) years of progressively related administrative duties and training, and three (3) years managerial experience. Experience in strategic management and project management methodologies would be an asset; OR

▪

A Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting, Finance, Banking, Business Administration, or other related field from a recognized university with six (6) years of progressively related administrative duties and training, and six (6) years managerial experience. Experience in strategic management and project management methodologies would be an asset.

TECHNICAL KNOWLEDGE

▪

In depth knowledge of the Central Bank of Belize Act, relevant sections of the Domestic Banks and Financial Institutions Act, accounting concepts and principles, IFRS standards and internal control processes; Sound knowledge of budget management and planning strategies, procurement management theories and practices; Knowledge of banking principles, business and management principles and strategic management approach; Proficient in software applications, including accounting software and Microsoft Office Suite.

COMPETENCIES

▪

Personal Credibility, Flexibility, Personal Accountability, Fostering Teamwork, Managing Performance, Attention to Communication, Results Orientation, Managing Change, Diagnostic Information Gathering, Thoroughness, Initiative, Analytical Thinking.

Submit the following documents by Friday, 26 August 2022:

▪ ▪ ▪ ▪

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, Accounts and Budget- Accounts and Budget Department Email: hr@centralbank.org.bz or online at www.centralbank.org.bz (All applications will be held in strict confidence.)

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THE BELIZE TIMES 2022

14 AUG

2022

14 AUG

2022

18 JAN

2015THE BELIZE TIMES

Economy on the Rebound Prime Minister John Briceño, OW Central

15

Hon. Jorge Espat, Cayo West

Hon. Alex Balona, Cayo Central Supporting Legacy Belize and growing one’s own food

More success at a mobile Medical Clinic

Min. Dolores Balderamos Garcia, Human Development, Families & Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs Helping the Jaguar Scouts distribute food and footwear

With his constituents at a Summer Camp

Special Envoy Rossana Briceño for the Development of Families and Children Delivering ‘MyLights’ Footwear all over the nation

Min. Julius Espat, Infrastructure Development and Housing

In a planBelize pilot home.

) Dr. Zabaneh delivering a planBelize pilot home to Virginia Saravia

Finance event

At Berger Field planning on the next project already

Hon. Michel Chebat, Cayo North

Delivering 3000 School Bags and footwear for Back to School

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THE BELIZE TIMES

14 AUG

2022

THE TRUTH ON

planBelize 2022 FUEL Stabilization and Subsidies

PM Briceño’s Administration is supporting our critical economic sectors during this global fuel crisis. They are making decisions which will have positive impact and support for economic recovery. This will keep Belizeans in jobs.

• About 5000 sugar cane farmers and citrus farmers are included in the productive sector fuel subsidies from the Government to lower this critical input cost.

• $1.6 million Fuel Subsidy Program for the benefit of 93 bus operators and 70 thousand commuters.

• 185 tour and tender operators, mostly micro, small and medium-sized enterprises benefit from tourism fuel subsidies.

• 80% of our transportation sector - public and private - use diesel and regular fuel/ gas.

• At least, $9Million of Government revenues foregone with the drastic reduction of fuel excise tax on diesel and regular fuel.

14 AUG

2022

17

THE BELIZE TIMES

PUBLIC AND BANK HOLIDAYS, 2022

LOST BOAT REGISTRATION CERTIFICATE: Notice is hereby given that Karen Moore , of Hopkins Village, Stann Creek District, owner of a fiberglass yacht, namely “Moore Toys” bearing registration number SC0610 is declaring the lost of her boat registration certificate.

NEEDED: Cashier at BD Laundromat & Grocery, located at # 39 Mahogany Street, Belize City. Call 6694212 for more information.

Cashier at Hoque Store, located at # 44 Mahogany Street, Belize City. Call 6694212 for more information.

CALL

671-8385 or

EMAIL:

belizetimesadvertisement@ yahoo.com

To place advertisement in the Belize Times Newspaper

MINISTRY OF INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT AND HOUSING INVITATION TO BID PAVING OF 2.2 km of GUINEA GRASS VILLAGE ROAD ORANGE WALK DISTRICT The Government of Belize via the Ministry of Infrastructure Development and Housing (MIDH) intends to upgrade to paved standard a 2.2 section of Guinea Grass Village Road (section passing through Village), Orange Walk District with Double Chip and Seal Treatment.

The Ministry of Infrastructure Development and Housing now invites sealed bids from suitably qualified and experienced contractors for paving of the above-mentioned 2.2 km section road passing through Guinea Grass Village, Orange Walk District.

The scope of works will involve upgrading to paved standard a total of 7218 ft x 23 ft of roadway with Double Chip and Seal Treatment and will include the following: 1 Clean main road of all vegetation and deleterious materials and dispose of spoil within a 2 miles radius of project site.

2 Clean side drains –14,437 linear feet and dispose of spoil within a 2 miles radius of project site.

3.

Drainage improvement & Culvert Installation works (Provisional item) 3 Scarify, shape and compact road surface (18,446 S.Y) as per crossfall on drawings.

4.

Supply, transport, place and compact 6 inches of subbase type material as per specifications.

5.

Supply, transport, place and compact 6 inches of crushed All-In as per specifications.

6.

Supply all equipment, materials, and labour to apply 2 coats of chip seal treatment covering a total surface area of 18,446 S.Y. Bidders who are interested must have the financial capacity, necessary equipment, technical expertise and experience to complete the works in accordance with the Bidding Documents.

Bidding will be conducted through national competitive bidding procedures and interested bidders may obtain further information and a copy of the bidding documents at the offices of MIDH at the address below as of Monday August 8, 2022 during normal office hours Monday through Fridays from 8.00 A.M – 12.00 Noon and from 1.00 PM – 4.00 PM. Bidding documents are free of charge and may be picked up by interested bidders on the submission of a written application (email) to the address below.

All bids must be delivered to the address below by 10.00 AM local time on Tuesday, September 2, 2022 and they will be opened on the same day at 10.15 A.M, at the address below. Late bids will be rejected. A bid security of $10,000 must be submitted and delivered to the address below at the same time of the bid submission.

1. Victor Espat Chief Executive Officer Ministry of Infrastructure Development & Housing #1 Power Lane Belmopan, Belize Tel: 501-822-2136/39 Fax: 501-822-3282 E-mail: ceo.secretary@mow.gov.bz

2.

Lennox Bradley Chief Engineer Ministry of Infrastructure Development & Housing #1 Power Lane Belmopan, Belize Tel: 501-822-2136/39 Fax: 501-822-3282 E-mail: BradleyLE@midh.gov.bz

18 LIQUOR LICENSE NOTICES Notice is hereby given that Tricia Maria Flores is applying for a Publican Special Liquor License to be operated at “Mosul Street Cool Spot Hideaway” located at # 65 Cemetery Road, Belize City, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Xian Ying He is applying for a Shop Liquor License to be operated at “Golden Bay (Belize) Company Limited” located at # 8 Fort Street, Belize City, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Xian Ying He is applying for a Shop Liquor License to be operated at “Golden Bay (Belize) Company Limited” located at # 8 Fort Street, Terminal 4, Belize City, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Kenroy S. Usher is applying for a Shop Liquor License to be operated at “Rito Store” located at 4.5 Mls. Philip Goldson Highway, Belize City, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Vince Young is applying for a Publican Special Liquor License to be operated at “Bird's Isle Restaurant” located at # 90 Albert Street, Belize City, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Rajiv Mehmi is applying for a Night Club Liquor License to be operated at “Okis Lounge” located on Churchhill Street, Benque Viejo del Carmen, Cayo District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Ruben Recinos is applying for a Restaurant Liquor License to be operated at “Good Stays Hotel Ltd.” located on Bishop Martin Blvd., San Ignacio Town, Cayo District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Bertita E. Cruz is applying for a Restaurant Liquor License to be operated at “Hillview Restaurant & Bar” located on Hills of Promise, Benque Viejo del Carmen, Cayo District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Mark A Nugent is applying for a Restaurant Liquor License to be operated at “Tacos Picante Restaurant” located at # 19 C.A. Blvd., Belize City, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Elizabeth Perez is applying for a Beer Liquor License to be operated at “GJE Mini Shop” located at # 37 San Victor Street, Belize City, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

14 AUG

THE BELIZE TIMES

2022

Latest MIDH House Program Recipients The joy on the faces of those receiving keys to their own houses tells a story better than words ever could. Eloise Lopez and Virginia Saravia are just two of the many persons whose lives have been touched by the MIDH's housing program, in every part of the country.

Both women, and their families, now have their own secure space to make memories to last a lifetime.

Also, in Caribbean Shores, they were also delivering on the promise and commitment to provide homes to the most deserving Belizeans. Newest homeowners, Mr. & Mrs. Frederick Kelly, who were given the keys to their home on Kelly Street in Belize City over the weekend.

We WILL continue to work, because we were elected to work and to serve our people.

MINISTRY OF INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT AND HOUSING INVITATION TO BID MAJOR REPAIRS TO HAWKESWORTH BRIDGE (563 FT IN LENGTH) SPANNING THE MACAL RIVER, SAN IGNACIO TOWN, CAYO DISTRICT The Government of Belize via the Ministry of Infrastructure Development and Housing (MIDH) intends to have major repairs done on the Hawkesworth Bridge which spans 563 feet across the Macal River in San Ignacio Town, Cayo District. The Bridge is approximately 48 feet above normal water level of the Macal River.

The Ministry of Infrastructure Development and Housing now invites sealed bids from suitably qualified and experienced Bridge contractors to undertake the proposed repairs of high-level Suspension type Hawkesworth Bridge.

The scope of works repair works on the road will include the following: 1 Replacement of various metal elements of the Main Deck, Towers and Pedestrian Sidewalk of the Bridge structure such as Metal I Beams, Wind Braces, and Guardrails.

2.

Replacement of Nuts and Bolts on the Main Bridge Deck 3.

Sand blasting of sections of the Bridge 4.

Painting of the entire Bridge with a Primer and two coats of Rustoleum Paint Bidders who are interested must have the financial capacity, necessary equipment, technical expertise, and experience as Bridge Contractor to complete the works in accordance with the Bidding Documents.

Bidding will be conducted through national competitive bidding procedures and interested bidders may obtain further information and a copy of the bidding documents at the offices of MIDH at the address below as of Monday August 8, 2022, during normal office hours Monday through Fridays from 8.00 A.M – 12.00 Noon and from 1.00 PM – 4.00 PM. Bidding documents are free of charge and may be picked up by interested bidders on the submission of a written application (email) to the address below.

All bids must be delivered to the address below by 10.00 AM local time on Tuesday, September 7, 2022, and they will be opened on the same day at 10.15 A.M, at the address below. Late bids will be rejected. A bid security of $10,000 must be submitted and delivered to the address below at the same time of the bid submission.

1. Victor Espat Chief Executive Officer Ministry of Infrastructure Development & Housing #1 Power Lane Belmopan, Belize Tel: 501-822-2136/39 Fax: 501-822-3282 E-mail: ceo.secretary@mow.gov.bz

2.

Lennox Bradley Chief Engineer Ministry of Infrastructure Development & Housing #1 Power Lane Belmopan, Belize Tel: 501-822-2136/39 Fax: 501-822-3282 E-mail: BradleyLE@midh.gov.bz

14 AUG

2022

THE BELIZE TIMES

THINK ABOUT IT PROSECUTOR TELLS JUDGE TO KEEP ACCUSED IN JAIL FOR 9 MONTHS A Senior Prosecutor from the Director of Public Prosecution, office has told a Judge of the Supreme Court it is quite okay to lock-up persons in jail for up to nine months before their trial.

This frightening argument is plausible put in writing in an effort to keep persons in jail and prevent them from applying to the Supreme Court to restore their freedom when Magistrates deny bail.

The argument to the Judge not to give bail is based on a misinterpretation of some words in the Belize Constitution which says if an arrested person is not tried within a reasonable time and if he is not released, he is entitled to bail on reasonable condition.

The Prosecutor’s argument is it is quite reasonable to keep persons in jail for up to 9 months while they wait for their trial.

Leeroy Banner, former Prosecutor and now a successful defense attorney says the same Prosecutor used this same argument to justify keeping persons in jail for up to five years because the prosecutors had plenty cases to deal with and five years in jail was not unreasonable in such situations. The Caribbean Court of Justice has since rubbished this kind of deformed view of violating the liberty of Belizeans.

Regarding the keeping people in jail for 9 months argument. This completely ignores the sacred legal and constitutional principles that bail is never, ever to be used to punish an accused person. Bail is a right, not a privilege. Bail conditions must be reasonable.

Bail may be refused if a person is proven to be likely to flee the country and not attend trial. Or will more than likely interfere with witnesses.

When a trial is completed and a person is found guilty of a serious crime, that is the time to punish him by taking away his freedom. We don’t go around punishing people just because they are accused of a crime.

DEPUTY P.M. CONCERNED, POLICE ROUND UP For the second time in less than two years, the Police have begged the new government to impose a limited State of Emergency in a section of Belize City. The government has reluctantly obliged.

So, for one month, an area in Lake Independence will be under a form of police state, with citizens having restricted and reduced rights and the police can walk or run into anyone’s yard or home, search anywhere, search anyone, detain anyone, place anyone’s name on their police list and take them straight to jail without any charge, any court, any due process.

All the previous States of Emergencies were done in violation of the Constitutional rights of those rounded up and taken straight to jail. There are many lawsuits pending in which government will have to pay for allowing police “fi du fool”.

We feel for the new Minister of Police. His task is an unenviable one.

His police department have no obvious policy, they have no obvious strategy. Whatever they have been doing for the past 15 years has not been working. We the citizens of the country do not feel safe and we are not safe. Check-points and road-blocks are not a solution to our crime problem.

And we just can’t seem to implement Community Policing. Taking sports equipment and groceries to some homes is not community policing. It is being embedded in neighbourhoods; Getting to know everyone on a personal basis; Becoming part of the hood and part of the people.

Being there to help them become more neighbourly and winnig their trust and confidence. And get them to shun and reform those vulnerable to indiscipline and crime. And to isolate those who insist on committing crime.

Real community policing calls for top quality police.

When the Deputy Prime Minister criticized the recent state of emergency, he most likely was expressing the views of cabinet colleagues.

They all want the police to propose real solutions. In Jamaica, which has been using States of Emergencies, on and off for years, the crime and murder remains very high. Last year, it was 1,464. As of 1st August this year were at 909.

The Jamaica opposition party have stopped supporting the government on the State of Emergency issue. They say it is not effective. The Supreme Court of Jamaica recently ruled that States of Emergency is a violation of the Constitutional rights of Jamaicans.

The Minister of Police may need to rethink his Ministry’s approach and seek views and ideas and solutions outside the police box.

He may also wish to revisit the approach of his Dad and the great George Price, who appointed a Crime Commission from when emanated many excellent ideas which successfully suppressed crime at that time.

Be guided by the reality, whatever is being tried for the past two years ain’t working. And the definition of a certain word is, doing the same thing

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over and over and expecting a different result.

CONGRATS U.B. Our National University have earned a double kudos.

First, Dr. Vincent Palacio is the new President of U.B. Big congratulations Sir. We’re looking forward to seeing a revived and dynamic flag ship university. We are confident you can do it.

As if to signal a new, visionary thinking, U.B. recently bestowed awards on six outstanding educators. They are Lorraine Valentine, Zoila Robateau, Lynda Moguel, Reverend; Adrian Leiva, Santos Tesecum, and Dr. Francis Arzu.

The University of Belize Awards will become an annual feature to honour Belizeans who through their exemplary service and contributions have facilitated the emancipation, liberation and development of the people and nation of Belize.

This first year, the Awards were in education. Future Awards will focus on other areas such as the arts, agriculture, social work, science, technology, business, environment, and such.

We noted this year’s Awards were done on the 1st August. This date is double significant. 1st August is the historic anniversary when years of defiance, uprising, escape and rebellion brought the racist, inhumane system of slavery came to an end.

1st August, 2000, is also the year when Prime Minister Said Musa with Education Minister Francis Fonseca made the University of Belize a wonderful reality.

Today, August 2022, Education Minister Francis Fonseca, much wiser and more experienced has been implementing a raft of reforms across the education spectrum. He must feel particularly gratified to have convinced the brilliant Anthony Sylvestre to take the rudder and the rein as Chairman of the Board of Trustees at U.B. YOUNG PERSONS WILL BE ON IT The government has agreed that the student body of the University of Belize will be a member of the Constitution Commission.

This decision follows a written and eloquent request from Guillermo Berganza on behalf of the National Student Union.

Of all citizens who have a stake in seeing Belize improve its Constitution none are more important that the young people who will inherit the future.

RUDY MIGUEL VISITS Former Cross Country Champion and one of several Miguel brothers who all became Cross Country Cycle Champions, is on a visit to Belize from California.

Welcome home and enjoy your visit Champ.

LISA HANNA LEAVES “I have always been a champion of change and having the courage to do what’s right, even when it’s not expedient or self-serving. As I believe courage has an obligation to pave new roads for the generation, I decided to conclude my current journey in representational politics at the end of this term.”

Those are some of the words contained in her resignation letter to the Leader of the Opposition party of Jamaica. was/is the elected area representative of St. Ann since 2007. She is a former Miss World as well as a Minister of Foreign Affairs in the last P.N.P. government.

She was considered Prime Ministerial material and has always polled as one of Jamaica’s most popular politicians.

A combination of beauty and brains and grounded in her commitment to poor Jamaicans, Lisa Hanna’s resignation has come as a shock to all of us who know her and know she was capable of becoming a transformational leader of Jamaica.

We wish her well and hope she Lisa Hanna will return again to help lead her country when the time is right.

SO TOO SERENA “I have never liked the word retirement. It doesn’t feel like a modern word to me. I’ve been thinking of this as a transition… Maybe the best word to describe what I’m up to is evolution.

I’m here to tell you that I’m evolving away from tennis, towards other things that are important to me.”

Serena Williams was straight out of Saginaw, Michigan, 41 years ago, when as a little black girl, she loved playing tennis. Serena would go on to be the best of the best, apart from the legendary Muhammad Ali, she is the greatest athlete on the planet.

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PRESS RELEASE Women Parliamentarians Caucus Speaks Out Monday, 8th August 2022The Belize Women Parliamentarians Caucus of the National Assembly was formed in February 2022. This past Friday the Caucus met for the third time to consider the administrative matters of the caucus and next steps in establishing a formal structure. In addition to these matters, there was a presentation and discussion on gender equality and its challenges.

It is in this context that the most

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recent public incident involving PluslV's morning talk show host was raised, whereby language was used that referenced the genitalia of women. It has been two (2) weeks since the remark was made with no retraction to date.

The Caucus takes this opportunity to remind all those in leadership roles that to use words associated with the genitalia of women to convey weakness, or a cowardly man or ''being less than a giant''is offensive, disrespectful, discriminatory and continues the patri-

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archal narrative that women are weaker than men. It is also misogynistic because it figuratively connects the female sex organ with weakness. It is also unacceptable to use it towards members of the LGBT community. This should not be the language or message that is encouraged.

We demand better from all those who are leaders or who operate from a platform of influence.

As disappointing and unfortunate as the incident was, we can use it as a teachable moment on gender equality. We call on PluslV to issue a public apology for the use of the word on its media. The Constitution of Belize states in its preamble (e) ''whereas the people of Belize require policies of state

LIQUOR LICENSE NOTICES

Notice is hereby given that Yue Shao Ruan is applying for a Convenience Store Liquor License to be operated at “R & I Snack Shop” located at # 7680 Faber's Road, Belize City, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Chun Hua Chen is applying for a Convenience Store Liquor License to be operated at “Kick Down Fence” located at # 46 Victoria Street, Belize City, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Noe de Jesus Martinez is applying for a Beer Liquor License to be operated at “Martinez Shop” located at # 58 Daisy Hornby Street, Belize City, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Rachel Renee Armstrong is applying for a Malt & Cider Liquor License to be operated at “Rali's Take Out” located at # 69 Albert Hoy Avenue, Belize City, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Wen-Te Chang is applying for a Shop Liquor License to be operated at “J & C Shop” located at # 40 Racecourse Street, Belize City, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Aaron Marlon Castillo is applying for a Shop Liquor License to be operated at “Jun's Grocery Shop” located at # 247 West Collet Canal, Belize City, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Yan Xia Chen is applying for a Shop Liquor License to be operated at “Yan Chen Store” located at # 288 Scissors Tail Avenue, Ladyville Village, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

which ensures gender equality''.

Language and choice of words we use particularly from a leadership platform are critical if we are to honor this guiding principle.

The Women Parliamentarians Caucus is cognizant that much work also must be done in parliament to lead by that example. The Caucus pledges its commitment collectively and as individual parliamentarians to do more to raise the level of discourse in the National Assembly and to increase the awareness of the importance of gender equality. The Caucus calls on all those in leadership positions, both inside the parliament and in the wider society, to join in this effort to ensure more careful attention is given to the choice of words they use.

MINISTRY OF INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT AND HOUSING INVITATION TO BID BLASTING AND SUPPLY OF CRUSHED ROAD MATERIALS TO REPAIR EXSERVICEMAN’s ROAD (BOOM CREEK VILLAGE ROAD) TOLEDO DISTRICT The Government of Belize via the Ministry of Infrastructure Development and Housing (MIDH) intends to repair various small sections of the Ex-serviceman’s Road (Boom Creek Village Road)), Toledo District with suitable crushed material.

The Ministry of Infrastructure Development and Housing now invites sealed bids from suitably qualified and experienced contractors to blast and crush road materials for use on repairs of small sections of Ex-serviceman’s Road, Toledo District.

The scope of works repair works on the road will include the following: 1 Clear Borrow Pit Location 2 Provide equipment and labour to drill Borrow Pit and Prepare site for Blasting 3.

Coordinate all applicable safety measures for control blasting as required by the Belize Police Dept and the MIDH 3 Blast and supply the following crushed road materials: 4,500 C.Y. of 1 ½ inch graded Limestone material 4,500 C.Y of crushed graded 3” minus subbase material 2,600 C.Y of crushed 4–8-inch graded material Bidders who are interested must have the necessary equipment, financial capacity, a licensed blaster, technical expertise, and experience to complete the works in accordance with the Bidding Documents.

Bidding will be conducted through national competitive bidding procedures and interested bidders may obtain further information and a copy of the bidding documents at the offices of MIDH at the address below as of Monday August 8, 2022, during normal office hours Monday through Fridays from 8.00 A.M – 12.00 Noon and from 1.00 PM – 4.00 PM. Bidding documents are free of charge and may be picked up by interested bidders on the submission of a written application (email) to the address below.

All bids must be delivered to the address below by 2.00 p.m. local time on Tuesday, September 2, 2022, and they will be opened on the same day at 2.15 p.m. at the address below. Late bids will be rejected. A bid security of $10,000 must be submitted and delivered to the address below at the same time of the bid submission.

1. Victor Espat Chief Executive Officer Ministry of Infrastructure Development & Housing #1 Power Lane Belmopan, Belize Tel: 501-822-2136/39 Fax: 501-822-3282 E-mail: ceo.secretary@mow.gov.bz

2.

Lennox Bradley Chief Engineer Ministry of Infrastructure Development & Housing #1 Power Lane Belmopan, Belize Tel: 501-822-2136/39 Fax: 501-822-3282 E-mail: BradleyLE@midh.gov.bz

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THE BELIZE TIMES

“AMAZING” SUMMER PROGRAM AT KUXLIN HA The Covid pandemic has been hard on our students with reading and maths being the core subjects that have been giving trouble to our young students.

Over the summer, Ms. Nuñes, a teacher of Kuxlin Ha in Maya Mopan, proposed a Literacy and Numeracy Summer Program in partnership with teachers Myrna Waight and Ms. Aracely Loria from United Evergreen who are also members of the Belmopan UWG as well as Teacher Rosa Ramirez also from Kuxlin Ha.

Obituary

CERAFINA ELISA ROSS

The program was tailored to concentrate on numbers and reading and the progress by the participating children was notable and excitingly positive. If we can teach all our children to read and teach them their numbers, it will give them a solid foundation for the rest of their schooling.

The collaboration between the teachers from United Evergreen and Kuxlin Ha was amazing and I want to personally thank these teachers who took time out of their Summer to help the children as well as the community.

Education is the key! - Hon. Oscar Mira - Belmopan; #planBelize; #shouldertoshoulder

MINISTRY OF INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT AND HOUSING INVITATION TO BID REPAIRS AND RESURFACING OF VARIOUS SECTION OVER A 7.5 MILES LENGTH OF EX-SERVICEMAN’s ROAD (BOOM CREEK VILLAGE ROAD) TOLEDO DISTRICT The Government of Belize via the Ministry of Infrastructure Development and Housing (MIDH) intends to repair and re-surface various small sections over 7.5 miles length of the Ex-serviceman’s Road (Boom Creek Village Road)), Toledo District with suitable crushed material.

September 21, 1969 July 31, 2022 In loving memory, We’d like to honor and remember such a kind and genuine soul. We may not understand why but I know God needed a fierce, strong, loving angel in his kingdom!

Cerafina is remembered by her children Christina, Johann, Siblings: Chalimar, Carlos, Cesar, many nieces, many nephews, many adopted children, and many friends.

We all have our similar yet different memories with Cerafina that we will cherish the most but mostly her sarcastic jokes!

We will miss your energy, laughter, smile, jokes, facial expressions and mainly you!

Tia, thank you for showing us how to love unconditionally and wholeheartedly!

Until we meet again our beautiful angel! Fly High and Rest in perfect peace! We love and adore you! By A. Rodriguez Prime Minister John Briceño, DPM Cordel Hyde, the PUP National Executive, and the rest of the PUP family extend their most heartfelt condolences to her family and friends. May she rest in peace and rise in eternal glory.

The Ministry of Infrastructure Development and Housing now invites sealed bids from suitably qualified and experienced contractors for repairs and resurfacing of small sections of Ex-serviceman’s Road, Toledo District.

The scope of works repair works on the road will include the following: 1 Clean main road of all vegetation and deleterious materials and dispose of spoil within a 2 miles radius of project site.

2 Clean side drains –8,000 linear yards and dispose of spoil within a 2 miles radius of project site.

3.

Drainage improvement & Culvert Installation works (Provisional item) 3 Scarify, shape and compact road surface (110,000 S.Y) as per crossfall on drawings.

4.

Supply, transport, place and compact 6 inches of subbase type material as per specifications.

5.

Supply, transport, place and compact 6 inches of crushed All-In as per specifications.

Bidders who are interested must have the financial capacity, necessary equipment, technical expertise, and experience to complete the works in accordance with the Bidding Documents.

Bidding will be conducted through national competitive bidding procedures and interested bidders may obtain further information and a copy of the bidding documents at the offices of MIDH at the address below as of Monday August 8, 2022, during normal office hours Monday through Fridays from 8.00 A.M – 12.00 Noon and from 1.00 PM – 4.00 PM. Bidding documents are free of charge and may be picked up by interested bidders on the submission of a written application (email) to the address below.

All bids must be delivered to the address below by 11.15 AM local time on Tuesday, September 2, 2022, and they will be opened on the same day at 11.30 A.M, at the address below. Late bids will be rejected. A bid security of $10,000 must be submitted and delivered to the address below at the same time of the bid submission.

1. Victor Espat Chief Executive Officer Ministry of Infrastructure Development & Housing #1 Power Lane Belmopan, Belize Tel: 501-822-2136/39 Fax: 501-822-3282 E-mail: ceo.secretary@mow.gov.bz

2.

Lennox Bradley Chief Engineer Ministry of Infrastructure Development & Housing #1 Power Lane Belmopan, Belize Tel: 501-822-2136/39 Fax: 501-822-3282 E-mail: BradleyLE@midh.gov.bz

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An Article written

by H.E. David Kuan-Chou Chien, Ambassador of Republic of China (Taiwan) to Belize August 10, 2022 The US congressional delegation, led by House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, recently visited Taiwan from August 2nd to 3rd. During her visit, Speaker Pelosi voiced strong support for Taiwan’s democracy and raised the profile of Taiwan internationally. Right after Speaker Pelosi’s departure, however, China conducted large-scale military exercises and

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launched ballistic missiles in the waters surrounding Taiwan. We strongly condemn China’s extremely irresponsible behavior.

China’s targeted, large-scale military exercises are serious provocation. By using Speaker Pelosi’s visit to Taiwan as a pretext, China pursues its true intentions in a number of ways.

Firstly, China has threatened Taiwan militarily for years, and it con-

AGREEMENT BETWEEN DOE AND UB

Belmopan, Belize. July 28, 2022. The Department of the Environment (DOE) within the Ministry of Sustainable Development, Climate Change & Disaster Risk Management is the lead agency in the implementation of the Marine Pollution component of the Ocean Country Partnership Programme (OCPP), which is being funded by the UK Government. Activities under this component of the project build upon those supported through the Commonwealth Litter Programme (CLiP).

To build and strengthen the collaborative efforts in addressing marine pollution, and to support the development and implementation of the projects and activities under OCCP, the DOE and University of Belize today solidified their relationship through the signing of a formal agreement, which focuses on: I. The continued support to the micro and macro plastics laboratory at the University of Belize and the Department of the Environment for the identification of micro and macro plastic in biota and abiotic samples.

II. Collaboration in the supervision of students’ research and internship activities in relation to the monitoring of micro and macro plastics in biota and sand.

III. Collection and sharing of relevant data that can be used by the DOE and the UB for the generation of reports as well as jointly explore the possibility of establishing an environmental information system to be used by both parties and in turn create opportunities for public access to information.

While the agreement is primarily focused on marine pollution from plastics, it also extends itself in allowing both parties to engage in research in thematic areas of mutual concern in promoting a healthier environment.

Belize and Moldova Establish Diplomatic Relations Belmopan, August 5, 2022 The Governments of Belize and the Republic of Moldova established diplomatic relations at the ambassadorial level in New York on August 3, 2022. Signing on behalf of the Government of Belize was His Excellency Mr. Carlos Fuller, Permanent Representative of Belize to the United Nations, and His Excellency Mr. Gheorghe Leucă, on behalf of the Government of the Republic of Moldova.

The establishment of diplomatic relations with Moldova is yet another step toward the government’s goal of expanding Belize’s connection and identifying potential markets with non-traditional trading partners.

Both Ambassadors confirmed their commitment to the purposes and principles of consolidating international peace and security. They also discussed areas of mutual concern such as climate change, cyber security, food security, the conflict in Eastern Europe and migration.

Accompanying the ambassadors were their first secretaries, Ms. Cindy Novelo and Mr. Andrei Nicolenco, for Belize and Moldova, respectively.

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tinues to upgrade its efforts. China aims to now influence the international community’s freedom of navigation in the waters and airspace of the Taiwan Strait by denying that it is an international waterway. On this occasion, China tries to routinize its actions in an attempt to disrupt the long-term status quo across the Taiwan Strait.

Secondly, China has used the drills in its military play-book to prepare for the invasion of Taiwan. It conducts not only military exercises and missile launches, but also cyberattacks, disinformation, and economic coercion, in an attempt to weaken public morale in Taiwan.

Thirdly, in terms of the range of its missile tests, China is clearly trying to deter other countries from interfering in its attempt to invade Taiwan. In other words, China’s real intention behind these military exercises is to alter the status quo in the Taiwan Strait and the entire region. This has already brought significantly unstable elements into the mix, threatening the regional and global security.

In facing China’s military exercises, Taiwan’s people, society, mil-

itary and government have displayed resilience and confidence, and remained calm. Despite China’s continued attempts to intimidate Taiwan, the Taiwanese people will not panic and are resolved to not be defeated. Taiwan will continue to staunchly uphold its free and democratic way of life. Acting upon its beliefs with the same determination, Taiwan will continue to defend its sovereignty, freedom, democracy, and prosperity. We also call on the international community to support Taiwan in unison and put a stop to China’s irresponsible threats and ambitious expansion, and jointly safeguard the value of freedom and democracy, to maintain a free, stable and prosperous world.

We would like to extend our appreciation to the Government of Belize, led

by Hon. John Briceño, Prime Minister, for the prompt support and reaffirming to strengthen the strong and close bilateral relationship between Belize and Taiwan. As Belize and Taiwan share the values of democracy, freedom and human rights, and have enjoyed the rock-solid friendship and partnership for the past 33 years, Taiwan will continue to work together with Belize to consolidate our long-lasting partnership.

ATTORNEY GENERAL’S MINISTRY VACANCY NOTICE Suitably qualified applicants are invited to fill the position of:

SENIOR LITIGATOR Applicants for the position of Senior Litigator: a) must be: i. qualified to practice as an attorney-at-law or as an advocate in a court in any other part of the Commonwealth having unlimited jurisdiction either in civil or criminal causes or matters; and ii. has been qualified for not less than five years so to practice in such a court. b) must be in good health. c) must be a person who conducts himself at all times, both in his professional and in his personal life, in a manner that will maintain public confidence in the standards of the legal profession.

Experience and training required: a) Minimum of ten (10) years’ experience as a practicing attorney-at-law in the area of civil litigation of complex legal matters specifically in public law (constitutional law and administrative law) and human rights law; b) Bachelor of Laws Degree from a recognized institution; and c) Legal Education Certificate or equivalent from a recognized institution.

Salary: BZD $84k per annum with allowances.

Interested persons may download an application package from the Attorney General’s Ministry Website – www.agm.gov.bz or submit in writing to: The Secretary, Judicial and Legal Services Commission Ground Floor, Sir. Edney Cain Building Thru’ the Office of the Solicitor General Attorney General’s Ministry Belmopan City, Cayo District Belize, Central America Telephone number: 822-2504 or 822-0519 email address: agsecretary@agm.gov.bz Deadline for receipt of applications: September 4, 2022 Applicants must submit proof of qualifications and two reference contacts along with application.

Note: Only suitably qualified applicants will be acknowledged. Commission is not bound to make an appointment from among those persons who apply.

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2022

EULOGY

ORLANDO RENE HARRISON September 13, 1962 - August 4, 2022 Delivered by By Hugh O’Brien:

“Death has a very dark reputation but, actually, to die is a perfectly normal thing to happen.”

In the biology of plants this is called senescence and the senescence or death of a plant means that they are making space for their seeds to take over. It ought to be a sad day, but in the true spirit of positivity that Orlando 'Landy or Big H' Harrison transcended, or if you believe in an after-life, we can be comforted to know that Landy is heading to meet his brother Richard and his sisters Dorita and Karen, and the dialogue of ideas, opportunities and projects will continue, guided by the stable hands of his loving younger sister Karen.

And while Landy will be united in heaven with Richard, Dorita, Karen, their dad Carlos, and their mom Melba, we can further be comforted knowing that Landy is leaving behind four wonderful seeds in the likes of Roberto, Jeanelle, Sadani, Rochelle, and his 5 grandchildren, Sadani Jr., Brielle, Kian, Amalei and Zea. And though all mature, these 4 wonderful and well planted seeds of Landy will continue to receive the able guidance of their mom, Ms. Maria Polanco.

Orlando Rene Harrison, or Landy as he was more commonly known, had quite a distinguishing character and was a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, son, uncle, cousin, and a friend to many.

Landy would entertain anyone he met with his keen sense of humour and with his illustrative ideas, which he delivered superbly with his incredible personality. Landy shared his business ideas and concepts with passion, and would easily convince you that his idea was a must-do one. And Landy shared and discussed these thought-provoking ideas at his places of business, at board meetings, at gas stations, at shopping centres, and at his home, long before the social media likes of Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Landy was born in San Ignacio on the 13th September 1962, and is the fourth born to Carlos and Melba Harrison. From a tender age, and while still living with his parents, it was clear that Landy was headed for greatness. Carlos taught his son Landy the value of hard work, and soon after Landy graduated from Sacred Heart College in 1980, his dad took him to the bush to help with the family’s sawmill operations.

Landy met Maria Polanco in 1990, and the union produced four children, and 5 adored grandchildren.

Landy and Maria spent 32 years

together, a loving union it was, one which they cherished dearly but chose to share their life’s challenges and accomplishments only with people who were dear to them. Landy challenged his children, wanted them to be independent and successful, and he guided them on a pathway to success in both life and business. He admitted, like many of us parents do, that to transmit some of these shared values to our children is not easy, but he made sure to never lose hope in the vision for success that he was passionate about. Despite the challenges that came their way, his children consider him a great and loving father, a man who spent time with them and his grandchildren, and he simply wanted to raise respectable, productive and successful children.

Many of us know of Landy’s passion for business ideas and concepts.

He was a well-respected businessman in the twin towns of San Ignacio and Santa Elena, and across Belize in general. He pioneered Big-H orange juice, using only a pigtail bucket and a spout he fixed at the bottom of the bucket in the early days and built Big-H juice to a nationally recognized brand.

Landy used the foundation he structured for Big-H juice and piloted other projects including Vida purified water, Juicy Juice, Mamita milk, A/C service and repair, a gas station in San Ignacio and Belize City, Meluchi’s restaurant and bar, and, for a while, Landy had the largest coconut plantation in Belize, with 50 acres of coconut planted in the El Pilar area.

Orlando Harrison and his brother Richard, founded the La Ruta Maya Belize River Challenge, which today is well recognized internationally and is a canoe race that is an annual staple in local circles.

I had the privilege of being a close confidant and advisor to Landy when his Big-H empire ran into very serious and near impossible issues with the gullible Belize Bank and the Ashcroft empire. I must say I admired Landy’s

resilience when faced with this extreme adversity. Many men faced with his situation would have gone to extremes, which I will not mention here, but Landy remained poignant, held his head high as he fell from grace, and he never gave up.

And in his usual way, he rebounded by joining us as a business partner in Buena Vista Development Limited, starting HL’s Furniture and more recently he pioneered Buena Vista Communications Center Limited, a call center operation based in San Ignacio that has employed up to 40 employees since commencing business.

A few years ago, Landy was diagnosed with Diabetes. Not long after, he started having kidney issues as a result of complications caused by Diabetes. He was placed on dialysis which began with one session a week, then 2 sessions a week. A few weeks ago,

his dialysis had to be increased from 2 times a week to 3 times a week. Despite this his passion to persevere in life and venture into new businesses was undaunted.

And about his health and dialysis, Landy in his usual way had good advice for all of us. “Sometimes we feel invincible and abuse the privileges God bestow on us. Best we follow the physician’s recommendations for a checkup every six months and know your health status”, he posted on July 28th on Facebook where he also shared a photo of himself hooked up to the Dialysis machine. With his passing Landy is no longer in pain, he does not have to be hooked up to a machine anymore.

This is not a goodbye, and having a strong faith in God, we know that Landy is at peace. At some point, everyone will link again, and we will see him when that time comes. Go on, enjoy your own life with the highest of energy and positivity reminiscent of what Landy transcended and would have wanted us to do. To his children, carry on the legacy of your dad, replicate his resilience and do so with the greatest spirit of family unity and with humility and great respect for others.

Rest in peace primo until we meet again.

ATTORNEY GENERAL’S MINISTRY VACANCY NOTICE Suitably qualified applicants are invited to fill the position of:

DEPUTY REGISTRAR Applicants for the position of Deputy Registrar – Belize Intellectual Property Office (BELIPO) must be: a) b) c) d)

an Attorney-at-Law qualified to practice law in Belize or the Commonwealth versed and trained in Intellectual Property laws. in good health. a person who conducts himself at all times, both in his professional and in his personal life, in a manner that will maintain public confidence.

Experience and training required: a) Minimum of five (5) years’ experience in intellectual property; b) Bachelor of Laws Degree from a recognized institution; and c) Minimum of five (5) years’ experience in management

.

Salary: Based on qualifications and experience.

Interested persons may download an application package from the Attorney General’s Ministry Website – www.agm.gov.bz or submit in writing to: The Secretary, Judicial and Legal Services Commission Ground Floor, Sir. Edney Cain Building Thru’ the Office of the Solicitor General Attorney General’s Ministry Belmopan City, Cayo District Belize, Central America Telephone number: 822-2504 or 822-0519 email address: agsecretary@agm.gov.bz Deadline for receipt of applications: September 30, 2022 Applicants must submit proof of qualifications and two reference contacts along with application.

Note: Only suitably qualified applicants will be acknowledged. Commission is not bound to make an appointment from among those persons who apply.

24 Hon. Usher Continues with Street Improvements in Port Loyola On Saturday August 4, over three dozen residents of Pen Rd Extension in Port Loyola expressed thanks to Area Representative Hon. Gilroy Usher for using the Community Development Fund for the division to purchase several truckloads of material to alleviate the terrible condition of their street.

The improvement to the area was long overdue. In the rainy season, the residents including many children have to walk through close to a foot of mud and water for weeks to travel to and from their homes. It’s the first time in history that a politician has done something to improve Pen Rd. Ext. for the people.

14 AUG

THE BELIZE TIMES

2022

CALL FOR PROPOSALS Consultancy to Develop a National Rural Development Strategy for Belize 1. PURPOSE The Ministry of Rural Transformation, Community Development, Labour & Local Government’soverarching ission is to contribute to Belize’s sustainable development by providing effective labour administration services, strengthening local governments, and facilitating an enabling environment for rural development.

The Ministry of Rural Transformation has embarked on developing a new National RuralDevelopment Strategy (NRDS) that is both area-based and multi-sectoral. the NRDS would aim to alleviate the current ad hoc approach to rural development by establishing a multi-sectoral andcoordinated approach to not only reducing rural poverty but also improving rural residents’ cultural, social, political, and environmental well-being.

2. CONSULTANCY OBJECTIVES: The objective of the consultancy is to develop a national rural development strategy for Belize thatwill serve as a national framework to guide the rural sector’s development process by clearly identifying development strategies that result in poverty reduction and rural economic growth while enhancing local culture and conserving critical environmental resources.

3. SCOPE OF SERVICES To develop the strategy, the Consultant will conduct the following: a) At a high level, engage directly with relevant line Ministries for assessment and planning of the strategy framework. b) Assess the implementation deficit of the previous BRADS and identify lessons learned. c) Carry out a situational analysis of the social, economic and natural environment conditions of the rural sector based on an informed delineation. The issues to be considered/reported upon in the analysis should include, but not necessarily be limited to the following: i.

Economy – identify critical elements of the rural economy including production, emerging commodities, off-farm employment, tourism, eco-tourism, main employers, livelihoods, labour force participation and overall economic opportunities. Establish clear linkages to the private sector and value chains for whatever opportunities that exist in various sectors. ii. Social development – produce a sex-disaggregated profile of the rural sector. Describe the supply and demand of health and education services, educational achievement, multidimensional poverty, and other relevant social issues of concern. iii. Infrastructure – identify needs and gaps in infrastructure including roads and public utilities that impact on the efficiency of production and quality of rural life. iv. Environment and natural resources – identify the state of the environment, degradation risks, resources for production inputs and climate change risks. d) Review secondary data including reports, studies, assessments, and relevant policy and legal documents including poverty assessments, census reports, labour surveys, etc. e) Collect primary data through participatory consultations with all categories of stakeholders in order to introduce the initiative, obtain feedback and gauge perception of need and strengthen buy-in. f) Prepare, validate, and submit a National Rural Development Strategy to the Ministry.

4. SUPERVISION/PROCESS MANAGEMENT The Consultant will report to the Chief Executive Officer or his designate. The Rural DevelopmentDepartment’s staff will assist the Consultant in coordinating activities such as meeting planning, stakeholder workshops, interaction with government Ministries and agencies, and general administrative matters.

5. REPORTING REQUIREMENTS AND DELIVERABLES The Consultant shall prepare and submit all reports in English. A soft and hardcopy of all reportsare to be submitted to the Ministry.

Main tasks

Payment

Timeframe

Inception Report and Work Plan

20%

One week after signing

Situational Analysis Report Draft of National Rural Development Strategy

25% 30%

One month aftercommencement Three months aftercommencement

Final National Rural Development Strategy

25%

Five months aftercommencement

6. DURATION OF CONSULTANCY 5 months (August – December 2022) 7. TRAVEL AND ACCOMMODATION Consultant will be expected to travel to locations for meetings and consultation sessions as agreedupon by both parties. The Consultant’s fees will be inclusive of travel and accommodation costs.

8. QUALIFICATIONS • The consultant must have the following qualifications and experience: • Minimum of a master’s degree in Rural Development, Local Economic Development, Sustainable Development, Agriculture Economics or any disciplines directly related to theConsultancy.

• At least 10 years’ experience in local economic, rural development or community development planning.

• Extensive knowledge of rural community development, public policy, poverty reduction, climate change adaptation, gender and equity approach to programming.

• Broad experience in facilitating extensive stakeholder consultations with government representatives, private sector, NGOs, and other stakeholders.

• Proven technical report-writing (English), analytical, communication, and project management skills.

9. INSTRUCTIONS FOR APPLICATION: Technical proposals must demonstrate relevant local or regional experience, appropriate knowledge, skills, and academic qualifications, approach and methodology, and a preliminary work plan. Financial proposals should include consultant costs such as fees, travel, and accommodation. The Ministry will cover the costs of meetings and workshops.

The full Terms of reference may be requested by writing to us at Coord.Rural.Dev@labour.gov.bz.

Technical and financial proposals must be submitted to: Elsa Cardinez Coordinator for Rural Development Ministry of Rural Transformation, Community Development, Labour and Local GovernmentEmail: Coord.Rural.Dev@labour.gov.bz Subject: “National Rural Development Strategy for Belize” All submissions must be made by 12th August 2022 at 4:00pm

14 AUG

2022

THE BELIZE TIMES

25

PUBLIC NOTICE Lodgement of an EIA Report and Public Consultation For “PORT OF BELIZE CRUISE TOURISM FACILITY AND CARGO EXPANSION” Located on Caesar Ridge Road, Port Loyola area, Belize City, Belize

The General Public is hereby advised that an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) report for the expansion of the Port of Belize cargo facility and the establishment of a cruise port terminal and cruise tourism village has been submitted by Port of Belize Limited & Belize Logistics Terminal Limited to the Department of the Environment (DOE).

The EIA report was prepared by Nextera Environmental and Engineering Consultants and Piedroba Consulting Group LLC. The EIA report will be reviewed by the National Environmental Appraisal Committee (NEAC) before a final decision is taken by the DOE. The General Public is hereby informed that the EIA report is available for public review, free of charge, since August 8th, 2022, and can be examined Mondays to Fridays during normal working hours (8:00 am to 5:00 pm) at the Port Loyola Library, National Library Service, Leo Bradley Library, Turton Library Center all located within Belize City, and at the DOE’s Office located on 7552 Hummingbird Highway, Belmopan. The public is invited to submit their comments in writing on or before September 2nd, 2022, to the DOE Office in Belmopan or email: envirodept@environment.gov.bz; eiaunit@environment.gov.bz. The EIA report and its annexes are also available on the DOE's website at link: https://doe.gov.bz/environmental-clearance/ Considering the realities related to COVID19 virus, and while hard copies of the EIA report are available at the above-mentioned locations, you are encouraged to utilize the above link to access the EIA report. Please practice social distancing when viewing hard copies of the report and follow the recommendations of the Ministry of Health.

Kindly be informed that a hybrid public consultation session for the EIA will be held on September 1st, 2022, commencing at 6:30pm sharp. The in-person consultation will be held at the Best Western Biltmore Plaza Hotel and virtually via the Government of Belize Press Office Facebook Page.

The public is invited to participate in this consultation to make comments, ask questions, seek clarification, express concerns, or issues, or to make objections or representations to the DOE in relation to the possible effects of the proposed project activity on the environment.

26

THE BELIZE TIMES

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2022

GOVERNMENT OF BELIZE INTER-AMERICAN DEVELOPMENT BANK STRENGTHENING OF TAX ADMINISTRATION Terms of Reference Project Coordinator DUTY STATION: Belize City, Belize PROJECT NUMBER: BL-L1031 I. I.1

I.2

I.3

(f)

BACKGROUND The Government of Belize (GoB) has entered into a US$ 14 Million Loan Contract Agreement (BL-L1031) with the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) for the execution of a five-year tax modernization project entitled “Strengthening of Tax Administration”. The main beneficiaries of the Project are: (a) the Government, which will have more revenues to implement its public policies; (b) taxpayers, who will have more support and a digital environment to fulfil their tax obligations; and (c) the population, from the government policies implemented.

The main objective of the Project is to contribute to Strengthening Tax Administration aimed at increasing revenue collection, through the following specific objectives: (a) increasing the effectiveness of the Government to collect taxes and (b) increasing tax administration efficiency. These objectives will be achieved by improving tax administration governance and operational processes, and by modernizing the technological infrastructure.

The MoF is the Executing Agency responsible for the implementation of the Strengthening of Tax Administration Project and, for this purpose, has established a Project Executing Unit (PEU) with concrete technical, administrative, financial, control and planning, monitoring and evaluation responsibilities for the IDB-funded initiative.

I.4

In this regard, a vacancy exists for the Project Coordinator for the PEU under a contractual arrangement with the MoF, and as part of the BL-L1031 initiative.

II.

OBJECTIVE AND SCOPE OF WORK

II.1

The objective of the position is to provide the necessary strategic, governance, organizational and administrative leadership for Project implementation and, thereby, ensuring the effective allocation of resources, providing the financial and technical direction of the Project towards the attainment of the goals and targets, leading the physical and financial progress reporting, and serving as the main focal point of the Project with the BTS, the MoF and other public and private institutions.

3.2

Guiding the preparation, the periodic physical and financial progress reports to be submitted to BTS, MoF, MED, and the Bank. (g) Presenting to the Bank the required data, reports and other documentation of the Project as a whole and its individual components, as established in the Loan Contract.

Specific activities include: (a)

Lead the overall planning and reporting framework and activities of the Project, including the preparation and update of key planning tools including the PEP, AOP, PP and other, in direct coordination with the Monitoring and Evaluation Officer and other members of the PEU.

(b)

Monitor and ensure the Project’s adherence to reporting requirements to the BTS, MoF, PSC, and the Bank.

(c)

Lead and coordinate timely implementation of all aspects of the Project based on the Project planning documents including the PEP, AOP, PP, supporting technical documents, and Monitoring and Evaluation Plan.

(d)

Ensure timely execution of all administrative, procurement, financial and technical procedures of the Project in compliance with the POM. In addition, ensure the strict adherence to administrative, Project management, and Bank and national financial rules and regulations, among others.

(e)

Ensure the necessary coordination between technical staff of the MoF (BTS and other) to provide the technical specifications and content for the preparation of terms of reference and technical specification as the basis for procurement actions and activities.

(f)

Provide for the timely monitoring and management of Project risks and lead the implementation of the mitigation measures as necessary.

(g)

Ensure the necessary coordination and control of all Project procurement activities and logistics with the Procurement Specialist and pertinent staff members of the MoF.

(h)

Support the information dissemination activities and advocate for the Project among key internal and external stakeholders, while maintaining the necessary and transparent lines of communication.

II.2

The Project Coordinator is responsible for leading and guiding all matters pertaining to the effective, efficient and transparent implementation of the Project BL-L1031, through the technical, administrative and financial management of the PEU, in accordance with the procedures and stipulations contained in the Program Operational Manual (POM) and in compliance with the Loan Contract.

(i)

Ensure with the BTS, the establishment of the necessary and effective lines of internal communication with key stakeholders of the MoF (tax administration, systems administration, financial management, general administration, and other) to ensure the dedicated participation of such personnel in Project implementation and in direct coordination with the PEU.

III.

RESPONSIBILITIES/ACTIVITIES

(j)

III.1

The main responsibilities of the Project Coordinator include, among others:

Ensure the presence of an accurate Project filing system covering financial, procurement, technical and all activities of the Project, and following the internal control requirements established in the POM.

(k)

Provide timely and accurate reports to the Director General BTS, Financial Secretary, PSC and other agencies on the developments, progress and challenges of the Project.

(l)

Ensure the timely implementation of the monitoring and evaluation activities including the contracting of the mid-term and final evaluations.

(m)

Lead, in coordination with the Financial Specialist, the preparation of the Requests for Advance of Funds along with the expenditure justifications, as required by the Bank.

(n)

Lead the contracting of the independent external auditors of the Program in coordination with the Financial Specialist, the Procurement Specialist and the PMO, and following IDB procedures for this matter.

(a) (b) (c) (d) (e)

Implementing the intra- and inter-institutional coordination mechanisms with the BTS, the MOF and other public and private organizations related to and/or beneficiaries of the Project Promoting and disseminating the Project among beneficiaries, public entities, and other stakeholders.

In close coordination with the pertinent technical and administrative personnel of the BTS and the MoF, guiding the strategic and operations planning activities of the Project.

Monitoring the activities of the Project in compliance with its global strategic objectives and those of its individual technical components, as well as the targets established in the Project.

Implementing the Programs’ risk management mechanisms on the basis of the IDB tool Risk Management in Projects with Sovereign Guarantee (RMP), taking into consideration the assessment and evolution of the risk factors, the factors of probability and impact, and risk mitigation measures.

Continued on page 27

14 AUG

27

THE BELIZE TIMES

2022

GOVERNMENT OF BELIZE INTER-AMERICAN DEVELOPMENT BANK STRENGTHENING OF TAX ADMINISTRATION Terms of Reference Project Coordinator Continued from page 26

(o)

Lead the contracting of the consultancies for the execution of the midterm and final evaluations.

•

Solid team management, leadership and delegation skills and ability to coordinate functional activities of multiple actors

(p)

Ensure the presence of the necessary control environment along with the capacities necessary for the application of a management by objectives framework.

•

Strong team player

•

Strong work ethics

(q)

Provide for the necessary human resources management capabilities for PEU personnel administration.

(r)

(s)

VI.

REPORTING REQUIREMENTS

Communicate with Project stakeholders (MoF, PMO, PEU, other) to ensure awareness of any new developments in Project status, strategy, progress, deadlines, challenges, decisions and other aspects that may affect Project implementation and the attainment of its development objectives

VI.1

The Project Coordinator of the PEU reports to the Director General of the Belize Tax Service. He/she shall work in close coordination with the staff of the MoF and especially the members of the BTS and the Finance Officer of the Ministry.

VII.

COMPENSATION

Other.

VII.1

The Project Coordinator will be paid a monthly salary to be established during the contracting process.

VII.2

Given the staff-like tasks and responsibilities of the PEU personnel, reports (deliverables) do not apply. Instead, performance assessment reports from the supervisor.

VIII.

APPLICATIONS

III.2

The Project Coordinator shall undertake his/her work in direct coordination and with the supervision of the MoF/BTS, and in accordance with the Loan Contract and the POM.

IV.

DELIVERABLES

IV.1

The Project Coordinator will be responsible for preparing/updating the following reports which are considered recurrent deliverables or responsibilities: (a) (b) (c) (d) (e) (f) (g) (h) (i) (j)

Updates to PEP, AOP, PP, risk matrix, and other Quarterly physical and financial progress/status reports.

Updates to POM Staff performance appraisals.

Specific reports requested by the PMO, MoF or the PSC. Allocation/provision of funds reports.

Fixed asset allocation reports.

External audit reports (prepared under consultancy engagements) Mid-term and final evaluations (prepared under consultancy engagements).

Other.

V.

QUALIFICATION AND EXPERIENCE

V.1

Education: Bachelor’s Degree in Economics, Business Administration, Business Management, Project Management or related fields. Certification in Project Management or a Master’s degree in a related field would be an asset. Participation in relevant courses/trainings in procurement, project management, time management, leadership, Microsoft Projects, or similar, would also be considered an asset.

V.2

Work Experience: A minimum of seven (7) years general working experience since obtaining the first academic degree. A minimum of (5) years of experience working in project management including administration, monitoring, control and evaluation. Previous work with investments projects funded by international development agencies is a plus.

V.3

Skills: The following skills are highly desirable: •

Knowledge of Records Management

•

Experience supervising staff

•

Experience in Report Writing

•

Knowledge and experience working with Microsoft Office, QuickBooks or similar accounting software

•

Excellent oral and written command of the English language

•

Strong organizational and time management skills and ability to multi-task, with ability to adapt to changing needs and priorities

VIII.1

CRITERIA FOR SELECTION

Consultants will be selected in accordance with the procedures set out in the Inter-American Development Bank: Policies for the Selection and Contracting of Consultants financed by the Inter-American Development Bank GN-2350-15 section 5 – individual consultants and is open to all eligible candidates as defined in the IDB policies. The individual consultant will be selected in accordance with the selection of Individual Consultant based on Comparison of Qualifications method set out in the Contracting of Consultant Policies.

VIII.2

APPLICATION PROCEDURES:

Expression of Interest package should contain: (i)

Cover letter briefly explaining interest, experience, and competence of the consultant (ii) Comprehensive resume with the Individual Consultant’s experience in the assignment of similar nature. Description of similar assignments specifying start and end dates of assignments. Please provide dates, name of employing organization, titles of positions held, types of activities performed and location of the assignment. (iii) Copy of degrees/certificates (iv) List of at least two references (v) Proof of nationality: copy of documentation of nationality Qualified Individual Consultant must submit their Expression of Interest via e-mail to Michelle.Longsworth@bts.gov.bz no later than 4:00 p.m., Friday August 26, 2022, marked STAP- Project Coordinator in the subject header.

In addition, applicants may also submit a hardcopy at the following address: Director General Belize Tax Service Strengthening of Tax Administration Project Eleanor Hall Building Lake I. Boulevard, Belize City For clarifications kindly contact: Senior Economist Ministry of Finance Sir Edney Cain Building Belmopan E-mail: raquel.guerra@mof.gov.bz Phone: 828-4100/ 828-4112

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2022