Belize Times March 29, 2020- Covid-19 Oversight

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The Belize Times

Established 1957

29 MARCH 2020 | ISSUE NO: 5191

The Truth Shall Make You Free

www.belizetimes.biz | $1.00

NO SHAME IN THE UDP GAME

Thursday, 26 March 2020 As we go to press, the Government of Belize has enacted a quarantine order which places the entire country under restrictions.

At the press conference this week hosted by the COVID Oversight Committee, the nation was asked not to panic although there was an announcement of a second confirmed case. We are in serious times,

Pg. 2

COVID-19 OVERSIGHT

CoChairs Prime Minister Dean Barrow and the Leader of the Opposition John Briceño hosted a Second Press Conference

PUP SENATORS EXPOSED BOGUS BUDGET Pg. 21

Pg. 2

FOUL WATER IN BILLY WHITE Pg. 5

BE SAFE: Do NOT Leave Home Unnecessarily

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29 MAR

THE BELIZE TIMES

NO SHAME IN THE UDP GAME

Continued from page 1 deadly times - a time when thousands of persons have lost their jobs and nobody knows what tomorrow will bring.

But you know what the UDPs are doing during this time of crisis? Those who say that they are leaders and want to be leaders of the people have packed up some cheap goods in fancy red bags marked Tracy for Albert, and Patrick for Leader and OJ for Freetown and are out trying to play politics at a time like this. How shameful is that?

Apart from shameful and utterly despicable, the fact is that the people are at this point of desperation because of the United Democratic Party. The UDP has been in power for twelve years – making all the policies, Budget after bogus Budget, and the people have gotten poorer and poorer. In Belize City, the poorest areas of the city are represented by the most powerful and senior UDP Ministers.

How do you explain that one?

Earlier this week, Belizeans also got the news that despite thousands of Belizeans in the most desperate of times, NONE of the utilities we supposedly own will be able to give us a break when it comes to paying bills. Despite the fact that the tourism industry came to a screeching halt, and many Belizeans do not even know how they will be able to feed their families, the utility companies have said that if bills aren’t paid to time, customers will be disconnected. That is the reality in Belize.

Remember when Dean Barrow stood on the podium and beat his chest and told all of us that we should be proud because we had taken ownership of BTL, and BEL and BWSL. They were for us, he said. We are the owners, he said. But when the people desperately need a break, we cannot get one. Imagine our shock when we were told by the bosses at BEL that they are struggling to operate, and they currently owe $60 MILLION, so they can’t help us. Mr. Barrow certainly never mentioned anything like that in his fancy Budget speech. In that speech, all the utilities were doing splendidly and we are living in a magnificent country with magnificent leaders.

Things will only get much harder for Belizeans in the days ahead.

Sadly, many of us will be forced to take the noodles and little packs of rice the UDP will hand out in their bright red bags. TAKE IT, because that is being paid for out of taxpayer dollars. Every item in those bags, and the money that was paid to buy and print those fancy bags with political slogans was paid for with taxpayer dollars.

Take it, but do not forget. NEVER FORGET what the UDP did to us when we needed them the most.

2020

COVID-19 OVERSIGHT March 25, 2020 On this day when shops were shuttering, buses were not running, and Social Media was ablaze with falsehoods, conspiracy and a lot of truthful information, the country was expecting two major announcements. The Caribbean breeze broke every now and again into the nationwide silence as the Prime Minister went to the podium to break the news. He was quick with the most awaited two items: “We are not announcing a national shutdown. We are not announcing the declaration of a state of emergency. So I want to make clear to the people of this county that it may yet come to that. If it comes to that we will give some notice and in any event, since that is at the very least a possibility and I would go so far as to say a likelihood depending on how things evolve.” AND “The first confirmed case infected one of her family members, indeed her mother. There were other family members that were screened and sampled and tested—they all were negative.

And there were five additional persons in San Pedro tested—not related to the first case at all, but who it appeared might have been exhibiting symptoms that warranted their being tested— all negative. So the second case is what was to have been feared in circumstances such as has occurred. The mapping exercise in San Pedro has proceeded. We can’t say that it is done.”

That quickly debunked the supposedly leaked information that Belize was already riddled with infections and that a national shutdown was to be announced at this Press Conference. Even with the small socially distant crowd of reporters, videographers and presenters, the announcement did cause a buzz and some media houses were quick to their phones to be the first to post what the PM had just disclosed.

San Pedro was placed in a 30-day State of Emergency. Said duration would be contingent on a complete mapping of the two lady patients’ whereabouts along with required testing. We hope that their stability goes to recovery and that Ambergris Caye can open sooner than the 30 days.

The second front was not as anti-climactic as was it cold water poured over the backs

of some Belizeans since the reality of our economy was unveiled. The Prime Minister and Party Leader has entrusted two socalled economic Czars to crunch the numbers and what they presented was this in a nutshell.

Dr. Carla Barnett: “The situation in the economy is catastrophic, that’s what we describe it as. Catastrophic because it is not only the tourism sector, it is the allied sectors, everybody that contributes to tourism and that‘s a very large sector of the economy that we‘re talking about. We‘ve also had significant job losses at the borders, in the free zones, as a result of the shutdown. We‘ve had significant impact on the productive sector, those people, the farmers who provide to the hotel and restaurants that serve the tourism visitors and so this, the impact is going to be quite large.”… Chris (other Czar) and I have come up with a series of recommendations that are intended to ensure that the system is fair, that the system is equitable, that those who need to benefit from it can have quick, easy, convenient access, that those who ought not to benefit cannot get what they are not to get out of it and therefore what we are seeking to do at this stage it looks like it will be a hundred and fifty dollars every two weeks. It‘s not a lot of money, we‘re not seeking, we cannot replace people‘s incomes but we can help to relieve the stress in terms of meeting basic necessities.”

So in the words overheard from a government worker the following day, “he is happy to at least have a job and at the same time, terrified to be going to that same job.”

The PUP Party leader assured the nation that they will do everything that they can in the face of the COVID-19 emergency. In the meantime, we should all heed to the social distancing and staying home as much as possible. If one feels that they are sick, they should call the 1-800-MOH-CARE hotline and NOT got to the hospitals. We all need to care for each other and ourselves as much as possible.

The Belize Times

Established 1957

14 APR 2013

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ISSUE NO: 4840

The Truth Shall Make You Free

www.belizetimes.bz

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$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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José Jiménez

LAYOUT/GRAPHIC ARTIST

Chris Williams

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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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29 MAR

2020

THE BELIZE TIMES

03 3

EDITORIAL

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Belize against All Odds!

n an unprecedented demonstration of patriotism and bipartisanship the Prime Minister and the Leader of the Opposition forged a united front against the war on COVID-19. There are many hard lessons that are going to be learnt during this crisis. Belize has been largely blessed, compared to her Central American counterparts who have paid for their independence and freedoms with blood. Belizeans have been largely spared the widespread bloodshed and heartache that comes with civil war and unrest. We have been spared many hardships in our short history, and maybe we have grown just a bit complacent and entitled. Rest assured we will not be spared this time. This global pandemic will come, and how bad it gets largely depends, not on the politicians or the government officials, but on Belizeans.

Perhaps the most important lesson to be learnt is that living in a society requires you to think, act and advocate for your neighbors as you would for yourself. No man is an island especially not in Belizean society. There are some individuals who selfishly believe that they are untouchable because of their superior intellect, wealth or social standing. Death and disease come equally to us all. The upper classes are the ones who can afford to travel, and are those most likely to import the virus. Those living in poverty are more likely to spread the disease because they live in close proximity to each other and often lack the basics such as clean water to keep Corona at bay.

The shrinking working middle class are the ones who will attempt to keep the economy and society together, while combatting the spread of COVID-19. Every sector of society is important, we must work together to keep those that do not have work off the street by providing them the basics so they do not have to go out to find that daily sustenance. Hospitals and all their staff, pharmacies, grocery stores, sanitation workers all play a vital role which we must collectively support and assist. The government must continue to pay security forces and the police so that order and the rule of law are maintained.

These are not easy tasks in an economy that is strained because collections of taxes are low. We must all do our part, to stop the spread and contain the virus.

The second lesson Belizeans will learn is discipline. Most of the time we are a happy go lucky and unruly bunch. Countries that have a culture of discipline and cooperation have been faring better in the long term dealing with this pandemic. Failure to follow the directives of the authorities leads to more chaos and infection spreads. Times ahead will be tough, the economic alleviation measures will not be enough, and are basically half of the inadequate and meager minimum wage, to assist the most disadvantaged and to encourage the policy of social distancing. In order to survive, we will have to follow directives, keep social distancing and learn to queue and in an orderly fashion. Sure these are challenges, but there is no better teacher than necessity.

There is a third lesson that will be learnt by the most unscrupulous of our society. Those that seek to profit financially‌or politically from the misfortune and misery of others, they have a special place in hell reserved for them. In times such as these price gouging is unforgivable. Especially heinous tough, is the blatant misuse of public monies to gain personal, political mileage at a time when Belizean families are most vulnerable. The vulgar display was in evidence as care packages emblazoned with political logos were distributed across several constituencies. The intention to hold Belizean families hostage over five pounds of rice, two ramen noodles, one bottle of alcohol and two toilet paper roles is simply abhorrent.

Belizean lives are at stake, but apparently there was still time to print special bags and take selfies totally disregarding social distancing parameters and further endangering lives. It is simply despicable and unforgivable to use this calamity as an opportunity to further a defunct political career. We see you and after this is over Belizeans will not forget. We are nothing if not resilient. We will learn these lessons well and united Belize will prevail against all odds.

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THE BELIZE TIMES

EDITORIAL

2020

en Español

Belice - Contra Viento y Marea

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29 MAR

n una demostración sin precedentes de patriotismo y bipartidismo, el Primer Ministro y el Líder de la oposición forjaron un frente unido en la guerra contra COVID-19. Hay muchas lecciones difíciles que se van a aprender durante esta crisis. Belice ha sido bendecida en gran medida en comparación con sus homólogas centroamericanas que han pagado con sangre su independencia y sus libertades. Los beliceños se han librado en gran medida del derramamiento de sangre y del dolor que conllevan la guerra y los disturbios civiles. Nos hemos ahorrado muchas dificultades en nuestra corta historia, y quizás hemos crecido un poco complacientes y con derechos. Tenga por seguro que de esta no nos libramos. Esta pandemia mundial vendrá, y lo mal que se ponga depende en gran medida, no de los políticos ni los funcionarios gubernamentales, sino de los beliceños.

Quizás, la lección más importante a ser aprendida es que vivir en una sociedad requiere que usted piense, actúe y abogue por sus vecinos como lo haría por sí mismo. Ningún hombre es una isla, especialmente en la sociedad beliceña. Hay algunos individuos que egoístamente creen que son intocables debido a su intelecto superior, riqueza o posición social. La muerte y la enfermedad llegan por igual a todos. Las clases altas son las que pueden permitirse el lujo de viajar, y son las más propensas a importar el virus. Los que viven en la pobreza tienen más probabilidades de propagar la enfermedad porque viven muy cerca unos de otros y a menudo carecen de los elementos básicos como el agua potable para mantener a la Corona a la raya.

La clase media obrera cada vez más reducida es la que intentará mantener la economía y la sociedad unidas, mientras combate la propagación de COVID-19. Cada sector de la sociedad es importante, debemos trabajar juntos para mantener a los que no tienen trabajo fuera de la calle proporcionándoles lo básico para que no tengan que salir a buscar ese sustento diario. Los hospitales y todo su personal, las farmacias, las tiendas de comestibles y los trabajadores de saneamiento desempeñan un papel vital que debemos apoyar y ayudar colectivamente. El gobierno debe seguir pagando a las fuerzas de seguridad y a la policía para que se mantengan el orden y el estado de derecho. No se trata de tareas fáciles en una economía que está sometida a la presión porque la recaudación de impuestos está debajo. Todos debemos hacer nuestra parte, para detener la propagación y contener el virus.

La segunda lección que aprenderán los beliceños es la disciplina. La mayoría de las veces somos un grupo feliz, afortunado y rebelde. A los países que tienen una cultura de disciplina y cooperación les ha ido mejor a largo plazo en la lucha contra esta pandemia. El incumplimiento de las directivas de las autoridades, conduce a más caos y la infección se propaga. Los tiempos que se avecinan serán difíciles, las medidas de alivio económico no serán suficientes, y son básicamente la mitad del salario mínimo ya inadecuado y escaso, para ayudar a los más desfavorecidos y fomentar la política de distanciamiento social. Para sobrevivir tendremos que seguir directivas, mantener el distanciamiento social y aprender a hacer cola y de manera ordenada. Claro que estos son desafíos, pero no hay mejor maestro que la necesidad.

Hay una tercera lección que aprenderán los más inescrupulosos de nuestra sociedad. Los que buscan obtener beneficios financieramente… o políticamente de la desgracia y miseria de otros, tienen un lugar especial en el infierno, reservado para ellos. En tiempos como estos, la especulación de precios es imperdonable.

Sin embargo, especialmente atroz es el flagrante y descarado mal uso del dinero público para ganar millaje político personal en un momento en el que las familias beliceñas son más vulnerables. La exposición vulgar se puso de manifiesto cuando se distribuyeron paquetes de asistencia con logotipos políticos en varias circunscripciones electorales. La intención de mantener a las familias beliceñas a su merced por cinco libras de arroz, una botella de cloro, dos fideos ramen y dos rollos de papel higiénico es simplemente aborrecible.

Las vidas beliceñas están en juego, pero al parecer todavía hubo tiempo para imprimir bolsas especiales y tomar selfies totalmente desatendiendo los parámetros de distanciamiento social y poniendo aún más en peligro las vidas. Es simplemente despreciable e imperdonable utilizar esta calamidad como una oportunidad para promover una carrera política extinta. Los vemos y después de esto los beliceños no lo olvidarán. somos resistentes más que otra cosa. Aprenderemos bien estas lecciones y Belice, unido prevalecerá contra viento y marea.

29 MAR

2020

05 5

THE BELIZE TIMES

BELLY of the

BEAST

United It is not easy for us to look at the Prime Minister of Belize, sitting there with our own PUP leader John Briceño, and not feel anger at what he has done to this country. We understand and salute our leader, the real leader, for doing the mature thing and for jumping on board at a time when the threat of COVID-19 demands national unity. All Belizeans should be happy that the Opposition is involved, or no doubt quite a bit of the money which should go to those affected by the virus would instead go into the pockets of friends and family. We all know that’s nothing new. But we can tell Mr. Barrow this, the people know what is happening. We know that his administration has no clue on how to handle this disease. We know that if our hospitals can be infested with rats and raccoons, then COVID will sweep our nation like a plague. While countries around us are allocating billions in COVID preparation, response and relief, we have to be begging for money here and there, and WE KNOW WHY. The UDP destroyed our economy, destroyed our healthcare system, and destroyed the country. God help us all in the days ahead.

Kudos As we prepare for what will be the toughest of times in our country, we at the Belize Times salute the front line providers – all those persons in hospitals and medical facilities countrywide who know that they will have to leave their families behind and work around the clock to attend the sick. We salute the members of the Police Department, the BDF and the Belize Coast Guard. We know the sacrifices that you all are forced to make every single day, and we know that the country will ask more of you in the days and weeks ahead.

All those who sacrifice for our well-being are appreciated, because these are not easy times. As the PUP leader said this week, the country will not forget those who are on the front lines. You and your families will be well taken care of. And when John Briceño says something, you can take it to the bank. That other bald fellow, not so much.

Pablo The entire country has asked us at the Belize Times to please ask the Oversight Committee to send Pablo home. For his own sake. He looks so damned stupid standing there beside the podium with this vacant look on his face. Everybody watching knows he has no clue what’s happening. It’s pathetic. Somebody at the Ministry of Health should actually be fired for putting Pablo on the panel of Ask the Experts with Dr. Marvin Manzanero. Somebody called us at the Times asking us if anybody had any questions about how to change bulbs.

Go figure. For the love of God put Pablo and the entire country out of our collective misery and put that fool in a dark room somewhere.

Seriously.

Disgrace There are not enough unkind or unpleasant words to describe the actions of the UDPs who have been using the misery and the desperation of our poorest Belizeans to score political points. Actually, we’re not at all surprised. Imagine that we’re going through this crisis with this virus which has destroyed countries far bigger and far wealthier than ours, and these idiots are still looking to score political points. People like OJ and Patrick and Tracy should be flogged up and down Albert Street for putting $3.00 worth of cheap goods in bright red bags with their names worth at least $10 each and giving those out. Worthless scum. But the people will not forget these UDPs. When all this is done, and trust me we will beat this COVID thing – when all this is done, Belizeans won’t forget the UDPs who took us lightly.

UDP Comedy We hear that Sedi Elrington has thrown his hat into the ring for UDP leader. So that makes Sedi, Darrell, Omar, John Saldivar and our cousin Patrick. You know what? We won’t even waste time talking about this mess this week, because there are much bigger, more serious things happening. There is not one of these clowns who would even be considered for any sort of leadership position, and certainly the people of Belize will have a hard lesson to teach them whenever general elections are called. The UDP is done. Moving on.

FOUL WATER IN BILLY WHITE The village of Billy White in Cayo Northeast is not being spared of the prolonged water crisis instilled for some months now by the United Democratic Party. As COVID-19 raises its head above the proverbial horizon, water will be essential with much more dire urgency. The government is being asked to go outside of itself and FIX the water situation all over the country.

Every week, we get to publish a village, town or even city experiencing the sorry state of their water. Potable water in our pipes has gone the way of the dinosaurs. The PUP will need to correct all these ills. We are ready.

Here is the correspondence: Dear Mr. Banner The village of Billy white is going on its third day without water.

Due to the heat and now the Advent of The COVID 19, IT is imperative that water is restored to that Village ASAP. 1. We can’t expect the residents to keep good hygiene and sanitation if there is no water to wash hands and clothing etc.

2. Not all residents can afford to puchase bottled water.

3. The producers and sellers of bottled water have stopped selling\distributing. So, even those who can afford bottled water have no access to it.

I am asking on behalf of the villagers for the Ministry of Rural Development’s Intervention.

Respectfully, Orlando Habet Area Representative.

NOTICE COTEHILL SERVICES LIMITED IBC. # 20,780 (“the Company”)

Pursuant to Section 102 (4) of the International Business Companies Act, Chapter 270 of the Laws of Belize, Revised Edition 2011, notice is hereby given that COTEHILL SERVICES LIMITED a) Is in dissolution b) Commenced dissolution on the 24th day of March, 2020; and c) CILTRUST INTERNATIONAL INC. of # 35 Barrack Road, Third Floor, Belize City, Belize, Central America is the Liquidator of the Company.

CILTrust INTERNATIONAL LIMITED Registered Agent

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THE BELIZE TIMES

29 MAR

2020

QUESTIONS TO THE MINISTERS

1. Will the Minister of National Security please send the police to O.J. Elrington’s house to arrest him and forcibly take him to get tested for the corona virus? And will the Minister also say if he can find a place to lock him up for the next two weeks?

2.Will the junior Minister of Trade Tracy Panton please inform Belizeans if she is aware that the nation is in a national crisis and that we need our Minister of Trade on the job instead of delivering food hampers?

3.Will the Minister responsible for Public Utilities please explain why at this time when the Ministry of Health is telling Belizeans to wash their hands as often as possible, they are allowing the interruption of water in certain villages in Belize?

4.In the interest of doing their part during this time of national crisis, will Ministers and CEO’s agree to join with the Prime Minister to reduce their salaries at least by 20 percent and give up their entertainment and telephone allowances?

The People’s United Party Standard Bearer Convention for the Queen’s Square Division is scheduled for Friday, April 3, 2020.

This is subject to change as we monitor the developments associated with COVID 19.

CARTOON

29 MAR

07 7

THE BELIZE TIMES

2020

Gasoline prices, US Gallon Gasoline prices, Octane-95, 23-March-2020: The average price of gasoline around the world is 7.47 Belize Dollars per US gallon. However, there is substantial difference in these prices among countries. As a general rule, richer countries have higher prices while poorer countries and the countries that produce and export oil have significantly lower prices. The differences in prices across countries are due to the various taxes and subsidies for gasoline. All countries have access to the same petroleum prices of international markets but then decide to impose different taxes. As a result, the retail price of gasoline is different. (https://www.globalpetrolprices. com/gasoline_prices/) * are updated weekly. The data for the remaining countries are updated monthly.

Ed. Note: One can see that generally ALL the countries in our region have lower fuel prices than Belize. The UDP government continues their senseless policy of taxing what they see is being consumed. This results in a citizenship that suffers. They have dealt blow after blow to our agricultural industry and are looking to kill it but it is resilient because of the people. Thanks God, COVID-19 has exposed it. Corrupted decisions yields corruption.

(Price per Gallon in Belize Dollars)

Venezuela 0.00 Colombia* 3.88 Puerto Rico 4.42 Haiti 4.73 USA* 4.96 Taiwan* 5.09 Canada* 5.14 Panama* 5.50 Mexico* 5.50 El Salvador* 5.59 Australia* 5.83 China* 6.27 Guatemala* 6.37 Tr.&Tobago 6.47 Dominica 6.56 Brazil* 6.57 Honduras6.86 Domin. Rep.* 7.01

Nicaragua* 7.07 India* 7.15 Guyana 7.59 Saint Lucia* 8.02 Costa Rica* 8.15 Jamaica* 8.51 Grenada* 8.61 Bahamas 8.82 Cuba 9.03 Japan* 9.28 Cayman Isl.*9.79 Belize 10.92(website) Barbados* 13.11

OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY GENERAL

Wednesday, March 25, 2020

For Immediate Release

NO TIME FOR DESPICABLE POLITICKING

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Š‹• ‹• ƒ –‹Â?‡ ™Š‡Â? –Š‘•‡ ‹Â? Ž‡ƒ†‡”•Š‹’ ƒÂ?† –Š‘•‡ ™Š‘ ƒ•’‹”‡ ˆ‘” ÂŽÂ‡ÂƒÂ†Â‡Â”Â•ÂŠÂ‹Â’ÇĄ MUST ’—– ƒ•‹†‡ ƒŽŽ ’‘Ž‹–‹…ƒŽ –Š‘—‰Š–Ž‡••Â?॥ ƒÂ?† ™‘”Â? –‘‰‡–Š‡” –‘ Š‡Ž’ ’‡”•‘Â?• ‹Â? Â?‡‡† ‘ˆ ƒ••‹•–ƒÂ?…‡Ǥ Š‹• ‹• Â?‘ –‹Â?‡ ˆ‘” ’‡––‹Â?‡••ǥ Â?‘ –‹Â?‡ ˆ‘” ’”‘’ƒ‰ƒÂ?†‹œ‹Â?‰ǥ Â?‘ –‹Â?‡ –‘ •Â?‡ƒÂ? ‹Â? ƒ Žƒ•– „‹† ˆ‘” ’‘Ž‹–‹…ƒŽ ‰ƒ‹Â?ÇĄ ‹Â? –Š‡ ˆ‘”Â? ‘ˆ ƒ ˆ‡™ …ƒÂ?• ‘ˆ „‡ƒÂ?• ’ƒ…Â?‡† ‹Â? „”‹‰Š– ”‡† „ƒ‰• ‡Â?„Žƒœ‘Â?‡† ‘ ƒ„‡” ˆ‘” Â‡ÂƒÂ†Â‡Â”â€™ÇĄ ‘” ‘ ˆ‘” ”‡‡–‘™Â?’ǥ ‘ ”ƒ…› ƒ”‡ ƒ…Â?•’ – ƒÂ?† –Š‡”‡ ƒ”‡ ‘–Š‡”•Ǥ ŠƒÂ?‡ ‘Â? ƒŽŽ ‘ˆ ›‘— ˆ‘” —•‹Â?‰ –Š‡ †‡•’‡”ƒ–‡ Â?‡‡† ‘ˆ –Š‡ ’‡‘’Ž‡ ‹Â? –Š‹• ˆƒ•Š‹‘Â?Ǥ

‡ Â?‘–‡ – „‡…ƒ—•‡ ™‡ Â?—•– – –Šƒ– –Š‡ †‡•’‡”ƒ–‹‘Â? ƒÂ?† ’‘Ž‹–‹…ƒŽ Â?ƒÂ?‹’—Žƒ–‹‘Â? ‘ˆ ‘—” ’‡‘’Ž‡ ‹• Â?‘–Š‹Â?‰ Â?‡™Ǥ Some of those same persons who are handing out ‘care’ ’ƒ…Â?ƒ‰‡• ˆ‘” ’‘Ž‹–‹…ƒŽ ‰ƒ‹Â? •Š‘—Ž† —Â?†‡”•–ƒÂ?† –Šƒ– ƒˆ–‡” –™‡Ž˜‡ ›‡ƒ”• ‘ˆ –Š‡ ÇĄ •‘ Â?ƒÂ?› ‘ˆ ‘—” ’‡‘’Ž‡ ƒ”‡ •‘ ‹Â?’‘˜‡”‹•Š‡† –Šƒ– –Š‡› ”‡Ž› ‘Â? –Š‡•‡ ŠƒÂ?†‘—–• ˆ‘” –Š‡‹” •—”˜‹˜ƒŽǤ Šƒ– ‹• –Š‡ •ŠƒÂ?‡Ǥ

‡ …ƒŽŽ ‘Â? ƒŽŽ ™Š‘ ƒ”‡ ‹Â? –Š‡ ’‘•‹–‹‘Â? –‘ Š‡Ž’ –Š‘•‡ ‹Â? Â?‡‡†ǥ –‘ †‘ •‘Ǥ Â? –Š‹• –‹Â?‡ ‘ˆ …”‹•‹•ǥ ‘—” ‘Â?Ž› Â?‡ƒÂ?• ‘ˆ •—”˜‹˜ƒŽ ‹• „› •–ƒÂ?†‹Â?‰ –‘‰‡–Š‡” ƒÂ?† †‘‹Â?‰ ™Šƒ– ‹• ”‹‰Š–Ǥ Ԡ „Ž‡•• —• ƒŽŽ ƒÂ?† Ԡ „Ž‡•• ‡Ž‹œ‡Ǥ

--ENDS--

‘Â?Â–ÂƒÂ…Â–ÇŁ ‹Â?•ˆ‘”† ƒ•–‹ŽŽ‘ ‡…”‡–ƒ”› ‡Â?‡”ƒŽ ÇŚÂ?ÂƒÂ‹ÂŽÇŁ •‡…‰‡Â?’—’̡‰Â?ƒ‹ŽǤ…‘Â?

8 08 8

THE BELIZE TIMES

29 MAR

2020

UDP INFAMY: Politicking when Belize is in an Existential Dilemma Of the multitudinous list of UDP infamies, the most present and threatening is that of them being lame and leaderless. The latter especially poses a grave danger to our still innocent nation. Imagine a brahma bull(not a raccoon) running roughshod in the KHMH after sighting red. That is the UDP today in Belize--destroying everything.

Politicking of COVID-19 Today, the world which Belize is a part of faces a dilemma of biblical proportions. That grand statement does nothing to halt the UDP’s utter distasteful and abominable nature.

ALL of Belize has sighted the looming and novel cataclysm, yet the UDP is blind to it. They smell a chance to accumulate junk points with a Belize that is openly concerned with their very lives.

Yes, Mr. and Mrs. UDP, the people of Belize need all the help they can get. YES. But, just like when you offered them land, nationalization, ham, paying of light bill now you are now offering careless bags using COVID-19 sensitivity to further cement the vote for you a listless UDP bearing the lowest of standards.

Who gave you the permission and money to attack our Belizeans in such a way?

Do not attempt to allude to a law or a release that allows you to do what you did or are doing with your UDP consituents. The rationale here is for champions of the people. The novel idea here is for great minds.

A lesson UDPs do NOT know: if you will help the people during a once in a millenia happening like COVID-19 give it in neutral color bags, no logos, no markings, and give everyone. You can even take it yourself in a neutral and personal vehicle; all this while using personal funds. For clarity, give everyone in your constituency in the very least a bag with what you can afford. Giving only some is reprehensible and really chancy especially of you didn’t use your own funds. Give with your heart not with the hope they vote for you. NOT in this life and death case. But what can you expect of a group of rogues with no leader.

Searching for a Leader during COVID-19 Darrell Bradley in one fell swoop insults 31 UDP Standard Bearers and

LIQUOR LICENSE NOTICE: Notice is hereby given that Kenyon Flowers is applying for a Restaurant Liquor License to be operated at “Gwen’s Kitchen” located on Coney Drive, Belize City, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

applies with the shortest of resumes possible for leadership of the UDP. The essential skill of being a proven leader is nowhere to be seen. His electability is proven to the negative...ask the Hon. Kareem Musa. His gifted Presidency of the Senate in the best of quid pro quo style counts only to show that he is ready to exchange people for a little post. So Darrell Bradley autocratically writes/copies a campaign finance law, lies or misleads that he has no leadership desire in an interview, records a COVID-19 video and viola he is ready to be leader of the UDP…and you thought you have seen the Dean of Megalomaniacs.

Two of the other four have had their stories almost digested and re-

gurgitated. When they were alone in the ring they pummelled each other so much that they have begun to love the pain. One learns as well as he runs his Ministry of Learning and the other has convicts in mind. Not even their own party wants them, but they somehow someway cannot be given their parting papers. What do they know?

The doctor in the bunch has not healed a thing in a while. The environment is continuously ravaged by anyone who has a buck. The climate change thing is beyond him and his paygrade.

This PetroCaribe by-election candidate is so silent that even being Speaker of the House is outside of his comfort zone. He won’t even win his constituency so voting for him would be a little

worse than the 72hr expiration date on UDP leaders. Who is this again?

How will they vote for him, if the people don’t know who he is?

Then Sedi who infamously asked residents not to vote for his opponent George Price. If Sedi runs, we will expose what he said about the Father of the Nation who beat him badly. Your artificial words just show that cyborgs have a better heart than you.

The UDP forgets that in a leadership convention, you need leaders. Which one of these is a leader?

None…

The UDP simply exacerbates the fatal danger of COVID-19. The UDP needs to go….NOW.

29 MAR

099

THE BELIZE TIMES

2020

Government of Belize Treasury Notes Offering Press Release

The Government of Belize (GOB) is offering to the public $75,000,000 in Five, Ten and Twenty-Year Treasury Notes. Application forms are available on the Central Bank’s website: www.centralbank.org.bz and may be submitted via email to InvestmentsWeb@centralbank.org.bz. Central Bank reserves the right to accept or reject all or any application.

Amount

BZ$75,000,000 in Five, Ten and Twenty Year Notes

Denomination

BZ$1,000 or multiples thereof

Issue Date:

3 April 2020

Settlement Date:

By 8 April 2020 at 1:00pm

Price

Sold at Par

Currency Payment

Payment will be accepted in Belize and United States Dollars

Structure

Tenor 5 Years 10 Years 20 Years

Amount $25,000,000 $25,000,000 $25,000,000

Coupon 4.50% 5.25% 5.75%

Maturity Date 3 April 2025 3 April 2030 3 April 2040

Fiscal/Paying Agent

Central Bank of Belize

Issuer

Government of Belize

Payment of Interest

All interest on the bonds accrues from the date of issue and will be payable semi-annually until maturity in Belize Dollars

Payment of Principal

The principal amount will be repaid at face value on maturity in the respective currency in which payment was originally made; Belize Dollars or US Dollars.

Security

These notes are backed by the full faith and credit of the GOB

Tax Status

Interest earnings on the notes are tax exempt

Use of Proceeds

COVID-19 EMERGENCY RESPONSE FUND

Closing Date

3 April 2020 at 4:00 p.m.

Payment Instruction

Payment should be made through your Commercial Bank via APSSS to the Central Bank of Belize account no. GL1CORP0402627 https://www.centralbank.org.bz/financial-system/financialinfrastructure/apsss

Additional Information

Investment & Reserve Management Unit Central Bank of Belize Telephone (501) 223-6194 Ext. 243, 490, 489 www.centralbank.org.bz

10

THE BELIZE TIMES

29 MAR

2020

PRESS RELEASE Central Bank Announces Domestic Banks to Remain Open amid Quarantine Order Belize City, 26 March 2020: There have been several public announcements related to the declaration of a limited state of emergency in San Pedro, Ambergris Caye, and, more recently, the enactment of a Quarantine Order for the Entire Country of Belize (Quarantine Order). The Central Bank of Belize has received numerous queries, which sought clarity on the impact of these Statutory Orders on the operations of domestic banks (banks), especially respective branches in San Pedro, Ambergris Caye.

The Public is hereby advised that within the Laws of Belize, banks are considered part of the country’s Essential Services. In this regard, during the period of the limited state of emergency in San Pedro, Ambergris Caye and notwithstanding the enactment of the Quarantine Order for the entire country of Belize, ALL Banks are expected to remain open to the Public even though their hours of operation may be restricted.

In the specific case of Ambergris Caye, banks will reopen for business from 27 March 2020. The only exception in this regard will be Atlantic Bank Limited, which for reasons already articulated, will be closed for at least another two weeks.

All domestic banks have committed to observing the Government’s guidelines regarding social-distancing and sanitization, in addition to taking all necessary steps to create a safe and healthy working environment for their staff and clients.

If customers require additional information or further clarification, please contact your respective bank or the Central Bank.

-ENDS-

Issued by:The Governor Central Bank of Belize 1 Gabourel Lane Belize City, Belize T: +501.223-6194 E: inquiries@centralbank.org.bz W: www.centralbank.org.bz

29 MAR

11

THE BELIZE TIMES

2020

ON THE

Orange Walk South: Hon. Jose Mai

MOVE

Belize Rural Central: Dolores Balderamos Garcia

Belize City Mayor Bernard Wagner

Toledo East: Hon. Mike Espat

Orange Walk East: Mayor Kevin Bernard

Port Loyola: Gilroy Usher

Collet: Councillor Oscar Arnold

Stann Creek West: Hon. Rodwell Ferguson

THE PUP IN 2020 & BEYOND WILL BUILD A BELIZE THAT WORKS FOR EVERYONE

51 12

29 MAR

THE BELIZE TIMES 2020

29 MAR

29 MAR

2020

2020

18 JAN

THE BELIZE TIMES 2015

TEAM 31 T E A M 31

BUILDING A BELIZE THAT WORKS FOR EVERYONE

13

14

THE BELIZE TIMES

29 MAR

2020

ON THE

MOVE

Orange Walk East: Mayor Kevin Bernard

Mesopotamia: Councillor Candice Pitts Belmopan: Oscar Mira

Port Loyola: Gilroy Usher

Port Loyola: Gilroy Usher In Carmelita: Mayor Kevin Bernard

THE PUP IN 2020 & BEYOND WILL BUILD A BELIZE THAT WORKS FOR EVERYONE

29 MAR

2020

15

THE BELIZE TIMES

to grow and sell healthy foods such as cassava, yams, plantains, sweet potatoes, and other vegetables and FIRST NOTICE fruits. We need to ban unhealthy imports (via legislation) that are high in Pursuant to Section 10 (3) of the Belize Mines and Minerals Act, Chapter 226, Substantive of Belize, R preservatives and low Laws in nutritional Louis Zabaneh, Ph.D., Ed.D., PUP Standard Bearer for Dangriga international events.

This UDP admin- Church 2000 - 2003, Juan Martinez for Neuland Reinlaender Mennoniten of Shipyard Village, Orange Walk value, and engage in a national educaMarch 26, 2020 has failed us of in all these Resources, areas tionthrough C.A., has applied to the istration Honourable Minister Natural the Inspector of Mines, Min campaign to encourage buying our Belize has been experiencing a rapidly deteriorating Balance of Trade (BOT) and taken backward withbelonging falling ex-to the Mining License to over mine limestone andusmarl from lands Neuland Reinlaender Mennoniten Chu local healthier foods. Our focus needs the past 12 years of this UDP administration. Exports grew initially $960.261M portDistrict, earnings, growing imports, a to is in thefrom Neuland area, Corozal Belize C.A. The area toand be mined bounded

by UTM shift to healthy foodco-ordinates: independence in 2008 to $1.242B in 2012, and then fell sharply to $489.678M in 2019, a drop of skyrocketing trade deficit – all bad for and to the expansion of our traditional 49% compared to 2008. Imports have increased from $1.576B in 2008 to $1.971B in the Belizean people. and non-traditional exports for the sake Northing Easting 2019, an increase of 25% over the period. The trade deficit increased from 616.217M We now have an opportunity to of our physical and economic health, 1) 1996962 0370409 in 2008 to a high of $1.482B in 2019, an increase of 241% (two hundred and for- engage in practical import substitution. thereby contributing to our sustainable 2) 1996915 0370677 ty-one percent).

Let us encourage our local producers human development.

SUMMARY ANALYSIS OF BELIZE’S BALANCE OF TRADE, 2008 -2019

3) 1996061 4) 1996030

0370369 0370596

SECOND NOTICE

The areas to be mined comprise approximately fifty-five (55) acres.

Pursuant to Section 10 (3) of the Belize Mines and Minerals Act, Chapter 226, Substantive Laws of Belize, Revised Edition 2000 – SECOND NOTICE 2003, Juan Martinez for Nueland Reinlaender Mennoniten Church of Shipyard Village, Orange Walk District, Belize C.A., has applied to Pursuant to Section 10 (3) ofthe the Honourable Belize Mines Minister and Minerals Act, Chapter 226, Substantive Laws of Belize, R of Natural Resources, through the Inspec2000 - 2003, Juan Martinez for Neuland Reinlaender Mennoniten Church of Shipyard Village, Orange tor of Mines, Mining Unit; for a Mining License to mine limestone Walk C.A., has applied to the Honourable of Natural Resources, the Reinlaender Inspector of MenMines, Min and marlMinister from land belonging to thethrough Nueland Mining License to mine limestone and marl from lands belonging to the Neuland Reinlaender Mennoniten noniten Church and located in the Neuland area, Corozal District, Chu in the Neuland area, Corozal District, Belize C.A. The area to be mined is bounded by UTM co-ordinates: Belize C.A. The area to be mined is bounded by UTM co-ordinates:

1) 2) 3) 4)

Northing 1996962 1996915 1996061 1996030

Easting 0370409 0370677 0370369 0370596

The area to be mined comprises approximately fifty-five

The areas to be mined comprise approximately fifty-five (55) acres.

(55) acres.

The ballooning THIRD NOTICE trade deficit has been exacerbated by this Pursuant to Section 10 (3) of the Belize Mines and Minerals Act, Chapter 226, Substantive Laws of Belize, R UDP government’s 2000 - 2003, Juan Martinez for Nueland Reinlaender Mennoniten Shipyard Village, Orange Pursuant to Section 10 (3) Church of the of Belize Mines and Min- Walk bull-headed focus on C.A., has applied to the Honourable Minister of Natural Resources, through the Inspector of Mines, Min an infrastructure-led erals Act, Chapter 226, Substantive Laws of Belize, Revised Mining License to mine limestone and marl from lands belonging to the Neuland Reinlaender Mennoniten Chu development apEditionBelize 2000C.A. – 2003, Juan for Shipyard Reinlaender NOTICE in the Neuland area, Corozal District, TheFIRST area to beMartinez mined is bounded

by UTM co-ordinates: proach. Such an Mennoniten Church of Shipyard Village, Orange Walk District, approach has seen Belize C.A., to the Minister of NatuNorthing Easting rising imports of inPursuant to Section 10 (3) of the Belize Mineshas andapplied Minerals Act,Honourable Chapter 226, Substantive Laws ral Resources, through the Inspector of Mines, Mining Unit; 1) 1996962 0370409 puts for the building 2000 - 2003, Juan Martinez for Shipyard Reinlaender Mennoniten Church of Shipyard Village, Or of roads, bridges, 2) 1996915 0370677 and marl from land for a Mining License to mine limestone C.A., has applied to the Honourable Minister of Natural Resources, through the Inspector of M roundabouts, stadi3) 1996061 0370369 belonging to the Shipyard Reinlaender Mennoniten Church ums, and other such Mining License to mine limestoneand and marl in from lands belonging to the Shipyard 1996030 located the4)Shipyard area,0370596 Orange Walk District,Reinlaender Belize constructions funded located in the Shipyard area, Orange Walk District, Belize C.A. The area to be mined is bounded C.A. The area to be mined is bounded by UTM co-ordinates: by mainly through loans The areas to be mined comprise approximately fifty-five (55) acres. from international Northings Eastings Northings Eastings financial institutions 1.)1.) 1983089 0324726 5.) 1983168 0320875 and friendly governments. Higher im1982841 0324718 1983165 0320952 ports requires that we spend our hard earned foreign exchange from a dwindling 1982870 0325082 1983052 0320874 export base. Since our exports are lower than our imports, the difference is financed 1983870 0325155 1983049 0320944 by more and more loans, increasing the country’s debt to almost 100% of GDP and rising.

2.)2.) 1983205 0324613 6.) 1982616 0321064 As shown in the table and graph, exports have fallen dramatically as traditional earners have experienced steep drops in production, including in the citrus, sugar, 1983101 0324615 1982614 0321149 banana, and shrimp sectors. This present government has done nothing meaningful 1983093 0324824 1982531 0321064 to facilitate the growth of the traditional export sector nor the non-traditional export 1983197 0324834 1982531 0321143 sector. Nothing has been done to encourage value-added processing and light manufacturing to boost exports, employment, and foreign exchange earnings. On the 3.)3.) 1982749 0327022 7.) 1975524 0321455 contrary, this government’s approach to these sectors has been one of lip-service 1982653 0327013 1975510 0321761 and in a number of cases blatant neglect. Many of our traditional agriculture products have suffered from diseases, natural disasters, and high production costs due 1982738 0326966 1975431 0321455 to expensive financing and an unfriendly business environment. These negative fac1982665 0326665 1975424 0321753 tors could have been mitigated by an export-friendly government, but instead where allowed to fester with no real and meaningful interventions.

4.)4.) 1984388 0325075 8.) 1975922 0321369 In essence, this UDP government has followed a de facto import promotion 1984386 0325166 1975913 0321471 approach, the opposite of what a small open economy should be doing. Export pro1984250 0325076 1975639 0321368 motion is a necessary condition for the development of small developing countries like Belize. Exportation increases foreign exchange, reduces dependency on foreign 1984245 0325157 1975624 0321461 products, increases employment, increases tax revenue, increases food security and manufacturing independence, and increases the resiliency of an economy. A The area to be minedloans comprises approximately forty-seven (47) acres. strong and sustainable export-led economy reduces reliance on foreign and The area to be mined comprises approximately foraid, and increases the opportunity for higher productivity of the labour force and ty-seven (47) acres. the improved welfare of a population. Strong exports makes our economy more resilient to shocks such as this COVID-19 pandemic, natural disasters, and other

SECOND NOTICE

16 THINK ABOUT IT

29 MAR

THE BELIZE TIMES

WHERE THERE IS VISION OUR PEOPLE WILL NOT PERISH The man who has ruined Belize is at it again. Another press briefing regarding COVID-19. Having squandered hundreds of millions of dollars on projects that have no priority, and refusing to spend money on the suffering people of Belize, he is now using coronavirus to improve his shameful image and disgraceful record in office.

On Wednesday morning, 25th March, Belize City and Belmopan were awash in disturbing rumors. Two of the main ones were; there was a country wide lock-down, and this would include all stores and shops.

The panic buying and hoarding of food stuff ramped up. The Prime Minister called a press briefing for 3:00 p.m. The news fed into the panic mentality. It turned out to be a two and a half hours long talk-show. Here are some highlights and comments.

The Prime Minister said there was not going to be a countrywide lock down; not yet.

Bad choice of words.

He said one other person had been diagnosed with corona. For this San Pedro would be locked down completely for 30 days. If the first infection required 72 hours why would a second infection (or even a third and fourth) require 30 long, hard days of complete isolation. Cause for suspension. Is the Prime Minister hiding information from us?

The Prime Minister said he could find 25 million dollars but would have to borrow the additional 50 million that is needed to deal with the immediate economic fall-out of job losses as the tourism industry continues to fall apart. He said he would have to resort to borrowing. What! More borrowing. Twelve years in office and he did not set aside hundreds of millions each year to protect us from the slings and arrows of misfortune and unexpected mishaps. Doesn’t Belize face hurricanes every year? Doesn’t our land tremble from the earthquakes around us? Is there something called climate change. Are our cities and villages prone to regular flooding? And he wastes every dollar he gets.

Nothing set aside Mr. Prime Minister? Why are you still hanging on as leader of this country, as it slides down the drain?

The government of Belize is broke, dead broke. Financially and otherwise. There is no cash reserves should the need arise, as it is arising now.

There was no mention that the 133 million dollars manatee road would be put on hold. Neither was there any mention that the mother of all waste – 180 million Caracol road would be put on pause. Squandering and corruption will continue while the suffering people of the country are left to scrounge around.

The Water Company was forced to give the Prime Minister one million dollars for Miss Corona.

B.E.L deep, deep in debt, to the tune of 60 million dollars could not even find a half million dollars to contribute to the corona crisis. Here is a great example of the mismanagement by the Dean Barrow government. Twelve years as Prime Minister and Finance Minister and the electricity company, a full scale monopoly is broke. Bruk and deep in debt. Where is the vision? Why we are not using solar for all government offices and for all villages and for all poor people homes. There is none, because Barrow is never about the people.

And B.T.L. is the telephone company owned by the people of Belize. This fat, bloated cash cow that Barrow put his son in charge of. This places the young man in the front line of accusations and allegations of multimillion dollars personal contracts?

B.T.L. is giving two million dollars worth of pre-paid top up and a mere million dollars in cash for the corona crisis. ALL of B.T.L. profits belong to the people of Belize.

ALL. And it is needed now to avoid starvation, a rise in crime and a deeper sense of hopelessness.

Social Security Board will spend up to 5 million dollars for “social assistance program”.What does this mean? When, the Prime Minister wanted his son to look good as C.E.O. of B.T.L., he raided Social Security of 50 million dollars. Now in the worst crisis since hurricane Hattie, only 5 million for “social assistance”. None of that 5 million will go to poor people.

We are not amused by Mr. Barrow’s defiant statement that he will do a Supplementary Budget to borrow. The Senate was still in session at 2:00 p.m. Wednesday 25th March running off their rubber stamp mouths on the national budget. As Johnny Briceño has said the Senate could have included 100 hundred million dollars for corona and return the budget to the house which could have met, Friday or Monday and pass it.

The Prime Minister, who is a stranger to accountability and transparency cannot be trusted with public monies. His record, these past 12 years is shameful and despicable to put it mildly.

Of the monies being borrowed for coronavirus, some of it will be used by his corrupt UDP government for somehow ‘bribing’ voters.

Johnny Briceño raised an important issue. Some of his colleagues are unhappy about him joining Barrow. They don’t want him to have anything to do with Dean Barrow.

Dean Barrow has been the most victimizing, most vicious, vile and hateful leader of our country. Thousands of innocent PUP supporters have had their lands taken away. Their children scholarships cancelled. Their applications for jobs torn up even though they are highly qualified. A leopard cannot change its spots. Dean Barrow cannot change who he is. He will use corona money for electioneering.

Johnny Briceño has shown maturity and leadership in putting party politics aside and lending the Opposition support because coronavirus is a national and dangerous crisis. But…..

But at the first sign of any abuse and wrong doing by Dean Barrow, the Leader of the Opposition will make a principal way forward.

And by the way, our leader has some excellent ideas on the way forward for Belizeans once we get a grip on controlling the virus.

We are encouraged. We are optimistic.

With new leadership Belizeans will get a new opportunity and upliftment.

2020

NOTICE Notice is hereby given that the below company has been dissolved and struck off the International Business Companies Register with effect from the date indicated: SACARAC INC. –23rd March, 2020 GCC Corporate Consultants Group Limited Registered Agent

NOTICE Notice is hereby given that the below companies have been dissolved and struck off the International Business Companies Register with effect from the dates indicated: Name of Company

Date

CENTRALINK CO., LTD.

17th March, 2020

PRO DRAGON INC.

17th March, 2020

VANTAGE DRAGON LTD.

17th March, 2020

GenPro Consulting (Belize) Limited Registered Agent

NOTICE Notice is hereby given that the below companies have been dissolved and struck off the International Business Companies Register with effect from the dates indicated: Name of Company

Date

MOUNTAIN CEDAR HOLDING INC.

14th March, 2020

GRADCO OVERSEAS LTD

14th March, 2020

WELLING VENTURES INC.

20th March, 2020

Icaza Belize Trust Corporation Limited Registered Agent

NOTICE Notice is hereby given that the below company has been dissolved and struck off the International Business Companies Register with effect from the date indicated: SUNBEAM UNIVERSAL AGENTS, INC. – 20th March, 2020 Sucre & Sucre (Belize) Limited Registered Agent

29 MAR

17

THE BELIZE TIMES

2020

Straight Talk

By Gilroy Usher, Sr. “In 2002, British Secretary of State (minister) for Education Estelle Morris resigned after mounting criticism about a huge scandal over A –Level markings” –International News In the Port Loyola Division on Monday, four youths accepted a job to make a drain and spread the sand in the owner’s property. Two days later the youths were looking for another employment after satisfactorily completing the task they were given earlier.

That is just a sample of the hundreds of youths both males and females in Belize particularly in Be-

lize City, who are ready to work to earn money to care for their families.

This administration allowed Longsworth to help himself with $5,000 from the National Sports Council for himself alone Nevertheless it adamantly rejects all calls to spend a similar amount of money to provide jobs for hundreds of Belizeans, who are desperate for any employment including cutting overgrown grass, building streets, or making concrete blocks to care for their loved ones.

The dollars the UDP allowed their worthless colleague to take from the Sports Council could have been used to hire youths.

In a hustle in 2018 the administration’s favorite contractor, Hernandez, was paid $8 million for a mile of Faber’s Road, which was double the price. That was a $4 million contract gift to a special contractor, who is notorious for shabby work.

But who always treats those, who enable him to land sweetheart deals with the government very generously.

The administration had no problem gifting their favorite road builder so much money, but again it has adamantly refused to use even $ 1/4 million ($250,000. ) to address the terrible housing situation in all urban areas of this nation.

At $40,000.00 per unit, out of the $4 million the government gifted Hernandez, they could have built 100 two or three bedroom concrete low income houses for the people complete with partition, electrical wiring, and bathroom facilities.

The great socialist Hugo Chavez of Venezuela gave this administration $500 million through the Petro Caribe program for use in getting Belizeans out of poverty. The money was for house lots, proper housing, small business development, and other basic things to address the terrible situation where 42 % of Belizeans at the time were living

in the poverty. Chavez would turn in his grave, if he knew that over 90% of that $500 million disappeared in all sorts of crooked deals with absolutely no benefit to the people.

As a result of massive corruption with Petro Caribe and other government funds, we have over 25 new UDP millionaires.

At the same time however 50% of Belizeans are living in poverty. Today more of our people are living in poverty after this administration was given $500 million for tangible projects to reduce pover-

ty in the country. $500 million is serious cash. Out of that huge sum of money the administration could have used $100 million of the Petro Caribe funds to address the huge demand house lots in the country particularly for Belize City residents. With only 1/5 of the Petro Caribe funds they could have bought large tracks of undeveloped private land between Belize City and mile 23 on the George Price Highway, fill and survey the different areas, and distribute over 1,000 house lots to first time land owners.

Belizeans continue to live in swamps and severely overcrowded homes and yards, because despite all their sweet talk of being pro-poor, this crowd in Belmopan honestly don’t believe in empowering the people with ownership of

land or anything of value, period. For twelve long years despite all the money imaginable, they have steadfastly refused to address the land problem for poor people in Belize.

Now these same politicians, UDP ministers and standard bearers, who are responsible for the massive corruption, and all our neglect and suffering for the last twelve years, are trying to exploit our health and economic fear with the coronavirus for political gain. They are doing this by distributing little UDP red bags with cleaning supplies which cost little over $5.00 throughout their divisions.

Just want them to know we have good memory, and we are not stupid. Straight talk.

JOB OPPORTUNITY/INTERNAL VACANCY Applications are invited for the post of Operations Clerk/Truck Scale Operator.

Reports to: Cargo Operations Manager

Experience:  Administrative experience .Education: Minimum Associates Degree Required Skills, Knowledge and Characteristics: To be selected applicants must possess the following important characteristics:  Experience working in an industrial environment would be an asset  Good computer skills (Microsoft Office)  Excellent and demonstrable English language skills, both spoken and written Knowledge Skills Attributes Basic Math Report writing Positive thinker, ethical, Punctual Good interpersonal communications Self driven, team-oriented Duties & Responsibilities: Truck Scale Operator 

     

The TSOs will be responsible for verifying the gross mass of all loaded containers entering PBL’s facility. In addition, they shall be responsible to carry out the policies, procedures and general instructions of the Operations Manager. In particular, the TSO shall: Weigh all trucks (on both the inbound and outbound leg) that delivered loaded containers to the Facility Issue weight certificate to truckers and ensure they sign it acknowledging the information contained therein Engaged in all continued professional development program arranged by PBL Maintain the weighbridge and all associated equipment in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions Maintain the weighbridge and general area of the weighbridge including the office in a clean, tidy and hazard free condition Other applicable responsibilities Duties & Responsibilities: Operations Clerk        Key Functions

Check and sign delivery orders for authenticity to load direct delivery container.

Assist with processing operations ship reports Enter waybills, delivery orders etc. that were written manually.

Make waybills for direct delivery containers and check delivery orders.

File delivery orders from direct delivery containers daily Assist with operating truck scales Any other duties that may be assigned.

 

Weighing of trucks on both inbound and outbound legs Accurately determine the gross mass of containers that have been weighed and issue weight certificate



Alert Operations Manager of any conflicts between declared weighs and verified weighs

 Ensure that Truckers abide by all rules/standing operating procedures related to the verification process Key Results  The gross mass of all containers loaded on ships at the Facility is properly verified  No overloaded containers are loaded on ships at the Facility  Mis-declared containers are identified and appropriate action taken Salary Scale: Will be commensurate (in accordance with the Company's Salary Structure).

To Apply: Kindly submit letter of application, resume, two recent reference letters, valid police record and a copy of a valid Social Security Card.

Applications should be emailed to: jobapplications@portofbelize.com or deliver to Human Resource Officer-Personnel (Mrs. Nicole M. Reneau) Closing date for receipt of applications is Friday, April 3rd, 2020.

18

THE BELIZE TIMES

29 MAR

2020

29 MAR

2020

THE BELIZE TIMES

19

One Vision…One People BILL OF RIGHTS The People’s United Party wants to share its vision with the Belizean people. It is rooted in a philosophy that goes back to the Father of our Nation the Right Hon. George Price. Mr. Price always believed ours was a work in progress; he led a revolution that is at its core peaceful, always constructive, progressive and uniquely Belizean.

These values remain true today and form a part of our PUP Creed. We are committed to the protection of our territorial sovereignty. We cannot, and will not risk even an inch of our beloved country, from the Rio Hondo to the Sarstoon. And we are committed to an accessible, fair and independent justice system and the rule of law in Belize.

The PUP will always seek to achieve social, economic and environmental justice. It is a commitment to the socio-economic improvement of all Belizeans. Our plan is to rid Belize of poverty. To the PUP, poverty is an ugly scar on our nation’s collective conscience, and no amount of cosmetic surgery can paste over the suffering of close to half of our people, most of them women and children, who live on less than ten dollars per day.

This is not only a task for governments. We all have a stake in this enterprise, but government must LEAD and bold leaders must show that they truly care. For us the task ahead is clear - to build a Belize that works for everyone, so that every Belizean should come to expect five things. This vision, this determination, has created what we call our BELIZEAN BILL OF RIGHTS. FIRST - Every Belizean should have access to a piece of land. With land we immediately create opportunities for upliftment and personal growth.

SECOND - Every Belizean should be able to own a decent home. The 17th Century Jurist and politician Edward Coke in speaking on human rights said: “A man’s home is his castle.” Every Belizean in 2017 should expect such an entitlement whether they live on Bocotora Street or on Seashore Drive.

THIRD - Every Belizean should be given the chance to go to school from pre-school to junior college. We have to make education free from pre-kinder to Junior College. If we will give our young people a chance at success, it must start with a good education.

FOURTH – Accessibility to quality basic health care is critical, which means every Belizean should be enrolled in the National Health Insurance Program. If we can invest 42 million dollars in a basketball stadium, then we should be able to provide basic health services to all.

FIFTH and most important, the driving force behind it all is JOBS - good jobs that can lead to meaningful careers; jobs that will give Belizeans a chance for personal growth and prosperity and provide a hand up for those at the very bottom of the economic ladder.

If we do these things, if we create a fair and just society, if we build on these principles we will then be able to change people’s lives and together we will rid our shores of the scourge that is poverty.

20

THE BELIZE TIMES

29 MAR

2020

PUP Standard Bearers: Appealing to their Constituents Hon. John Briceño

Excerpts of FB Posts

Today our nation is facing a serious crisis. Like the rest of the world, Belizeans must be united in our efforts. In times of national crisis our response cannot be a PUP or UDP response. It cannot be us against them or our side against those on the other side.

To appropriately deal with the unset of the coronavirus in our country, everyone must now come together the way we do when one of our national teams take the field. It must be one effort for team Belize. For sure, we will only be able to negate the health, social as well as the economic impacts that this crisis will bring about if we work as one people.

We must also pay special attention and undertake measures for the care of the elderly and those who are especially vulnerable to serious effects from the virus. We are also supporting efforts to ensure that substantial resources are made available for quarantine purposes.

Within Belize, geographically we are also relatively sparsely populated. In our approach to this virus, it is useful to take advantage of this reality. This means that we can get through this with less casualties if we take measures to self-quarantine and decentralize quarantine locations.

We must also do all possible to assure our front-line specialists and health care workers as well those who we depend on for all our public’s other health care need that their concerns are being addressed. (Budget reply excerpt)

Hon. Rodwell Ferguson

Belizeans if government gives each one of us 500.00 dollars that would equivalent to 200 million and there are about 400 thousand of us living in Belize.

The only way this can be done if government cancel the Caracol road and the coastal highway but after one week the money will disappear and then we will be back to square one. This is the time for us to be health conscious and build our immune system to fight the virus. I encourage you to take preventative measures by eating lots of citrus products, avoid drinking cold stuff and Keep the nostril and the troat hot as possible to kill the virus. The nose and throat are your port of entry. You Can light your stove and put on a full pot of water and wait until it is steaming and inhale the steam through the nostril or plug in your blow dryer and let the steam go up your nostril only for a few minutes at a time . You can gargle your throat with hot lime water on a daily basis. BELIZE we can prevent this if with take precautionary measures.

Hon. Oscar Requena

Understandably, there is a great level of anxiety and uncertainty as to what lies ahead of us. In a time like this, we as a people are called to remain calm and focused on following the guidelines outlined by the Health Authorities in helping to fight the spread of this deadly disease.

We are also called to listen to official information coming from the competent authorities and follow the required instructions. For our own good, the good of our families and that of our nation, I humbly request that we cooperate with our authorities and take our own precautionary measures.

This is not a time to be out if it is not extremely important. Stay home and it will go a long way in helping to fight this disease. I thank all our village leaders for their proactive role in helping to be be vigilant and in helping to maintain calm in our communities.

I also thank all our health personnel, our security forces and everyone involved in confronting this pandemic.

Together, with God’s help we will rise and overcome this crisis. Together we will make Belize and the world a better place.

Hon. Julius Espat

53.9% of Belize’s population live in our Rural communities, yet I see absolutely no focus coming from the PM to address their needs during this crisis.

These are our Belizean brothers and sisters that form the backbone of our productive sector. The residents of the rural constituencies of this country demand to be treated fairly.

If the utilities really belong to us, then GoB should consider subsidizing the utility bills for poor residents both urban and rural until the virus passes.

Hon. Jose Mai

For General Information and as explained by the experts for the benefit of all: Anyone placed under Self Isolation should remain in isolation for fourteen days!!!

Persons who are placed in self isolation by health authorities should not be in public before fourteen days.

Violating this, puts at risk the health and life of hundreds of persons!!

In these difficult times, Let us do the right thing and God will help us!!

God be with all of us!!

Hon. Francis Fonseca

Our Freetown family will do it’s part in this national effort. The people have the power. Let’s stay home. We also expect and demand that the Government

do it’s part to provide relief for those who have lost their jobs, protect our health workers and all those on the frontline of this crisis, and provide support for the poor and most vulnerable among us. We cannot ask people to stay at home when they have no means other than the streets to put food on the table for their children. This is no time for political posturing and taking advantage of people’s vulnerabilities and fears for partisan advantage. We are in this together!

Hon. Kareem Musa’s open letter to GOB: “If dah fu we, mek it free!”

Dear Prime Minister and Ministers of Government, While we appreciate your Clorox and Tin Sausage in your highly insensitive political handbags (all paid for out of our tax dollars), please be reminded that this is not your normal Christmas time cheer or campaign season giveaway.

Why bring crumbs? WE, the Belizean people, are the owners of BEL, BTL and BWSL. WE are YOUR employers. And as your employers, we are not requesting or begging of you, but rather demanding that you immediately desist from charging utility bills during this time of crisis.

Get the drift? Wheel and come again!

Signed, Caribbean Shores and other ordinary people of Belize

Hon. Florencio Marin

I urge everyone to remain calm and follow the guidelines from the Government.

As well, to those who have recently travelled be it in-country or abroad, we humbly request you stay at home just as a precaution.

Only by staying at home, practicing social distancing, and following the authorities guidelines will we be able to get over this pandemic as quickly as possible.

Thank you.Pedimos a todos seguir las recomendaciones del departamento de salud. Por el bien de tu familia, amigos y de nuestro pais. Cuento contigo...

Unidos vamos a sobresalir de esta pandemia.

Hon. Orlando Habet

In these coming weeks and months in which we are affected by the threat/ advent of the Corona virus COVID 19, I am of the opinion that as good citizens, we need to strongly support our local industries by purchasing our locally produced foods. At a time when the tourism Industry which represents 1/3 of our GDP is collapsing, our agriculture and food processing sector remains strong despite the drought and high costs of production. … It is my recommendation that some of the monies assigned by government for assistance to the tourism and other ailing sectors of the economy due to the COVID 19 problem, be used by government to purchase food items from our productive sector for assistance to the vulnerable groups and the needy, and to be used to assist those who lost their jobs with some in-kind assistance instead of all cash. This assures that some monies goes back to the productive sector.

My humble opinion and request.

Mayor Kevin Bernard

I take this opportunity to advise all businesses and establishments in Orange Walk to put guidelines in place to enforce ‘social distancing.’ Currently, there are still shops and supermarkets which are crowded with persons. It is essential that there be limits on persons allowed in businesses, and that proper spacing of four feet or more be allowed between persons patronizing those businesses.

My friends, much larger economies than ours have been crippled by COVID-19. I am sure many of you have seen the pictures of coffins lined up in Italy, carrying the bodies of those killed by the virus. This can be avoided if we practice the protocols in place. Take every necessary precaution to protect yourselves and your families. As much as possible, stay at home. Continue to monitor the situation.

The Council has put measures in place and with the now officially confirmed case, will implement other measures that will require the limiting of certain services in town. Thus it is advised to do your part and let us all be safe.

May God bless our people, and bless Belize.

Jorge ‘Milin’ Espat

We remain hopeful that the pandemic will be over soon and that we will return to normal day to day business. Our campaign remains committed to assist in any way possible. Stay safe! Stay up to date with the latest information about the spread of COVID-19. Stay tuned to credible news outlets and help share official information only.

Continued on page 21

29 MAR

THE BELIZE TIMES

2020

Special Sitting of the Senate Debate on the Appropriations Bill 20202021 March 25, 2020

The Upper House of the National Assembly debated on the 25th Wednesday the 1.2 billion dollar General Revenue Appropriation Bill tabled in the House of Representative by the Prime Minister of Belize on 5th of March and only rebutted by the leader of the Opposition due to the Coronavirus concerns in being assembled for a long period of time.

The 1.2 billion dollars project to spend is the largest budget when compared to the 1.18b dollars in 2018 and 1.16b dollars in 2017.

The PUP Senators were singing that same tune. This Wednesday’s Senate meeting saw practically all Senators partake in debate. The PUP senators were very concerned with some specifics in the budget bill. Here are a few words that can only be construed as in defence of the Belizean people.

Senator Louis Zabaneh: “We have about 46.6% that’s allocated in the Education budget to pre-primary and primary education, about 30.1% to secondary, and about 10.1% to tertiary. That adds up to around 86% of the total $279,909,626 that’s allocated to education. In fact, the largest portion of the entire budget. We have over the years, been allocating a lot of money, Mr. President, to education, because we recognize the importance of education to our development. However, when we look at the bill itself, at the document detailing how the monies are to be spent - and I will focus these 3 areas - we note that we start out talking about the objective in each of the areas. It talks about the actual expenditure, then it looks at the staffing requirements that have been issued out in the past couple of years, and that is planned for the next two years. And it talks about performance information.

If we look at primary enrollment, we see that enrollment in primary has actually been falling. In 2017/2018, there were 66,465 students in the primary system. By the following year, it had fallen to 65,993. Additionally, it is projected that it will remain lower than in 2017/2018 at 66,000. That’s a very serious statistic, Mr. President because it is speaking to all our young Belizean, primary school-aged Belizeans, who at a very minimum, we’re trying to get through the primary sector. Without that, they have very little or no chance of getting a job any at all, and their trajectory peak, not making it even to the secondary level, and likely joining the many who are unemployed, possibly on the streets doing nothing.

So this trajectory is something that must be arrested. With the millions of dollars that we’re spending, it is absolutely important that we hold our officials responsible in the sector for the accessibility of our young people. The 52% net enrollment at the secondary level is one of the lowest in the region, and the world. It means that literally half of our children, who are between ages 12 and 16, half - so if we have 22,000 in the system right now, we’re talking about another 20,000 kids of the age 13, 14, 15, 16, who are not in secondary school. And for 280 million dollars, we are not able to bring in another 20,000 students who belong in secondary school, this is atrocious, Mr. President. We must be able to do better.”

Hon. Isabel Bennett: “When I look at primary care services, to go back a bit, 2017/2018 there was - under Capital 2 expenditure, there was zero. Under the 2018/2019 actual budget, there was zero. That’s primary health care. Unless I am not understanding how to read the budget, Mr. President. The estimate for 2019/2020 was a measly $85,000. If we had a solid primary health care system, if the investment was being placed under this particular aspect of the Ministry of Health, we would have a much more solid foundation right now, having to deal with COVID-19.

“If we had a solid primary healthcare system, if investment was being place under this particular aspect of the Ministry of Health we would have such a much more solid foundation right now having to deal with COVID-19. My colleagues right now nurses, doctors, pharmacist would have as many protective gears that they need to actually attend to the issues right now. But we are giving fifty thousand dollars to primary health care services? I can’t understand that. Hospital services and their CAP two expenditures, zero? CAP three expenditure, zero? Community based services, zero, zero.”

Hon. Michel Chebat: “ The budget Mister President is far removed from the current reality and necessity we face as a nation. We require a budget that is human centered accompanied by a financial rescue package and we need a budget that reflects these times. But not only must the budget focus on the current needs of our people but it must display a current plan to rebuild our economy once this pandemic has passed. For the past 12 years, the Government has failed to make a meaningful investment in the productive sector and apparently has no plan to change that course of action.

In 2019/2020, it collected $78,211.11 on taxes from exports. In 2020, in this current fiscal year coming, it is projecting revenues amounting to $80,166, and that is on page 12 of the estimates. And so, what this shows, Mr. President, is that there is no meaningful interest in the projective sector. Look at the consequences we are faced with today.

Over the past 12 years, the Government has focused its energies on tourism, primarily. And that sector accounted for almost 40% of the economy. Today, there are no cruise ships. No planes are flying, massive cancelation of overnight bookings.

Hundreds in this sector are left almost overnight without a job, and across the country, we see restaurants and resorts closing their doors. Mr. President, not even a week into this crisis and the players in the tourism industry are collapsing.”

21

PUP Standard Bearers: Appealing to their Constituents

Continued from page 20

Oscar Mira

Belmopan is a community that is a family. We have always looked out for one another and in this crisis, we need to be our brothers’ and sisters’ keepers.

I know we can do it. Let us look at the future with hope. The more we follow the rules, the quicker we will be able to get back to normal. Let us desist from listening and spreading rumors.

Let us avoid close contact, not only with people who are ill but everyone else as per the recommendation of social distancing.

All persons having Flu-like Symptoms are asked to stay home, self-isolate and to call the hotline that the Ministry of Health has established if you have any additional queries or if you need guidance in making decisions.

Let’s remain positive that we WILL defeat this disease, but to do that, we need everyone to listen only to the experts and to follow their instructions.

Alex Balona

¡Lo mejor que usted puede hacer es quedarse en casa si su salida es de menor importancia!

Do everything possible to protect yourself and prevent contact with the coronavirus!

Ramiro Ramirez

Dear voters of Corozal Southwest, under the circumstance of what is going on with COVID-19, I hope you all are in good health. We have to prevent COVID-19 from coming to our area. Please stay home and follow the guidelines. I pray to God that we are safe. God bless Belize.

Ed. Note: Readers please be mindful that these are excerpts. For the complete comment/releases/posts of our PUP leaders visit, like and follow their FB profiles and pages.

Belize City Council Message to Women and Children Presented by Councillor and Standard Bearer Candice Pitts Once again, we are celebrating Women’s month and Child Stimulation month under the themes: “I am Generation Equality: Realizing Women’s Rights.” And “Hug me, Listen to me, read with me, help me grow.” Respectively.

As the Belize City Councilor for Women and Children, I believe it is imperative that we promote the rights of our women and children during this time, especially since instances of injustice and abuse unfortunately continue to affect them in our society.

Undoubtedly, in Belize, we have some very strong, resilient, influential, and powerful women.

And every day affords us a new opportunity to acknowledge the crucial role women play in our lives. It is my hope that, as a country, we would likewise reflect on the historical and current achievements of our women leaders both locally, nationally, and internationally.

Likewise, it is my hope that, as a country, we would acknowledge the hope our children represent for our future, and, as such, make the necessary investment in their emotional, psychological, physical, and spiritual development.

Both women and children assume social roles that are crucial

to the continuation and progression of our humanity, society, and country. It should be all our responsibility to advocate for the economic development of our women and to advocate for adequate healthcare and educational Opportunities, and all other social benefits, including the right to exist in safe environments and social spaces, for all our women and children.

I pledge to do my part, in all my capacity, especially during the month of March, to support the movement to better the lives of women and children.

As it is, I was once a child with hope, talents, and many possibilities that needed the right guidance and resources for me to have been successful. I certainly would not have been where I am today if it weren’t for my mother and the other loving, influential, nurturing, and inspiring women I met on my life journey.

I therefore take this opportunity to wish a Happy Women’s Month to all the phenomenal mothers, grandmothers, daughters, aunts and sisters of Belize City.

And Happy Child Stimulation Month to all the wonderful and beautiful children.

You will now and forever be cherished!

22

29 MAR

THE BELIZE TIMES

2020

ONE is TOO MANY

IS: It can go at the backpages of the paper.

E is TOO MANY

Homicides in Belize up to March 11, 2020(updated)

Count

icides in Belize up to March 11, 2020(updated)

Dat e

1.

Mar 2nd

Gregory Martinez

25

Police Street

Belize City

Shooting; killed inside a van as he tried to escape

2.

Mar 3rd

Micheal Barrera

52

Bravo Shop, BLVD

Belize City

Shooting; in front of a shop

Keith Courtney

46

Long Barracks, Ebony St

Belize City

Shot possibly in retaliation; Body covered his 7yr old grandson

Picture

rd

Name

Age

Site

Home

Brief Details

3.

3

4.

6th

Devon Arnold

24

Central American Blv

Belize City

Shooting

5.

9th

Carolyn Joan Arnold

63

Lake Gardens

Ladyville

Stabb and left on the road

6.

13th

Fredrick Williams

18

Partridge St.

Belize City

Attacker ambushed a home as fired shots

7.

15th

Ryan Lucas

31

Northern Border

Hattieville

Found stabbed near to the Chactemal bridge that goes into Mexico

8.

15

th

Philip Leslie

27

6th and Landivar

Belize City

Gunman pulled up to the house and shot penetrating bullets

9.

15th

Shakira White

31

Same as above

Same as above

Same as above

10.

15th

Dominique Rhamdas

4

Same as above

Same as above

Same as above

11.

16th

Collet Morter

19

Gladden St.

Riverside Bze City

Shooting Victim

12.

17th

Kia Herbert

5

Pitter St.

Belize City

She and mother shot while sleeping on the floor; through the walls

13.

17

Derrick King

21

West Street & Orange

Belize City

Was shot in a hail of bullets in broad daylight; other were shot too

minor

minor

The UDP does not get it now, and never will. Someone else needs to be placed in the lead of the country. Our men and women need to be

The UDP does not get it now, and never will. Someone else needs to be placed in the lead of the country. Our men and women need to saved. With a rate like this, the number of murder could go way beyond the record number. COVID-19 and the City State of Emergency has With a rate like this, the number of murder couldago way beyond thea real record number.

COVID-19 thrown band-aid on it but solution in not in sight. and the City State of Emergency has th aid on it but a real solution in not in sight.

When will Michael Peyrefitte roll out his ANTI-CRIME plan (not bandaid)? Or is this bigger than Peyrefitte, like ALL the

When Michael out his ANTI-CRIME plan(not Orthey is this bigger like UDP iswill to blame for Peyrefitte their failedroll policies.

When a new person comes inbandaid)? it is because have novelthan ideas.Peyrefitte, About 23 of theAL 39 murders are under watch. they have novel ideas. About 23 of the 39 to blame for their failed policies. When a new person comes in it his is because

THE BELIZE TIMES 23 2020 United Democratic Party Commitments 2015 Manifesto

29 MAR

PART III (LAST OF 44 BROKEN PROMISES, UDP STYLE) 31.

Offer free specialized clinics in all residential & non-residential centers Pablo dreamt this one day and is his broken promise number umpteenth. Now for the elderly as a way to control chronic & non-communicable disease. with COVID-19 cataclysm threatening, the UDP might was to apologize for buildThese special clinics will be established in centers where the elderly can ing roads instead of hospitals. feel comfortable

32. Expand the Food Pantry program to other districts

Who is really helped?

And, no it hasn’t been rolled out. No surprise there.

33. Restructure the overall taxation system to ensure equity & fairness in There was no change in the instance of equity. Imagine the new General Tax Services collection, & to encourage economic stimulation made a multimillion dollar loan. For what? They should collect taxes and make loans.

34. Transition to a Single Revenue Authority that coordinates all government A last minute introduction marred by the appointment of the wife of a tarred politician tax collection agencies & introduces a common Tax Identification Num- rewarded to diplomat that might be remanded without passing Go. ber 35. Put more people to work through job matching & training based on mar- Ask your fave UDP rep what they mean by this. ket demand 36. Reduce the cost of high speed internet to bolster economic growth 37.

BELIZE is in FULL economic recession and looking to go deeper. The government isn’t budging yet.

Strengthen National Standards & Quality Controls to protect consumers Belize still massively imports even basic food items that could be locally produced. Yet & enhance competitiveness the verification of quality is not there. We just buy and import in the billions.

38. Allow homeowners a chance to retain their hard earned equity by en- The pages of the newspapers are continually laden with properties that are being foreabling banks to extend the period to write off residential mortgages to closed.

10 years 39. Review the policy that prohibits the holding of US Dollar accounts at Capital has taken flight; In fact, is the last few years, UDP combination of policy has domestic banks in order to retain capital in Belize weakened the banking system.

40. Develop an investor-friendly residency program 41.

Is this the McAfee, Mason, Pukke, Dermen, Kingston etc. program?

Improve government services through the implementation of a sys- Services to a few was great. It is called corrupted services. tem-wide quality process reform

42. Enact bills to enforce transparency & accountability in Public Financial On Feb 20 and 23, there was a major and a historic demonstration pointed to the finances of the country being corrupted. In fact, the very supreme court had on Jan 31 Management. ruled that PM Barrow had been involved for years in deliberate unconstitutional spending of Belizean money.

43. Fully implement an integrated e-Government system in all departments Maybe this is why the Prime Minister’s last decision on John Saldivar was a video to where practical the nation.

44. Diversify the education curriculum to ensure relevance to national de- Faber cannot get his 2012 imposed amendments to work. Education is not happening mand at rates Belize needs to progress. PSE is regressing in terms of success.

45. Launch a nationwide preventative campaign to reduce diabetes, hyper- The politicizing of the health system has been detrimental. Pablo Marin is not good for tension & obesity through proper nutrition & exercise this MoH. Let us recall, the PM left him as minister of health because he wins elections. Sad. 46. Develop a National Housing Policy that will stimulate housing starts & Anyone seen the policy? Yet, they can rack up a 24 thousand dollars in phone bill for create a secondary market for mortgages the last fiscal year.

47.

Institute a National Lands Advisory Council to ensure adherence to pro- With Patt the corruption at land continues. Patt said so himself. Did he give 350 caye gressive land use policies lots for 1000 dollars to UDP delegates for votes? When the media asked him, he infamously said he won’t answer since his words are often distorted. Yes, Patt sounded distorted.

48. Implement a mandatory recycling program

Oh yes they recycled the ministers in Cabinet. There was no improvement.

49. Restrict importation & use of non-biodegradable packaging

Has the UDP found out which packing is biodegradable? Does Belize have scientists who verify that the packaging being called biodegradable actually is? Is another fraud happening in plain sight?

50. Develop & implement a modern migration policy that will ensure that Is this the Dermen convict policy? immigration into Belize will contribute positively to our national develop- In this the Dianne Finnegan/Beverly Williams policy? ment 51.

Implement the National Council on Ageing’s Strategic Plan 2015 – 2019 Our septuagenarian and octogenarian relatives are waiting. to address the needs of our elderly, including legal protection, healthy life styles, financial security, social support, housing conditions & access

52. Invest $60 million to upgrade & widen the Philip Goldson Highway from It is 2020 and the old Haulover is still there. The widening rendered a highway with Mile 2 to the PGIA junction, & replace the Haulover Bridge deep defects. Horrible accidents along the stretch point to only some of the defects.

24

THE BELIZE TIMES

29 MAR

2020