Belize Times September 12, 2021- Blu Bonds

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The Belize Times

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THE BELIZE TIMES

12 SEP

2021

Established 1957

12 SEPTEMBER 2021 | ISSUE NO: 5266

The Truth Shall Make You Free

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“If our proposals are consummated, however, Belize’s public debt will be instantly reduced by almost 500 million Belize dollars. To put this in perspective, 12 cents of every dollar of the public debt will be eliminated. This arrangement will also direct, on average, $8 million Belize dollars annually to marine conservation projects, upgrading the protection and management our marine patrimony. These conservation investments will create new jobs, buttress the tourism industry, fortify the fisheries sector and catalyse a flood of NGO interest in and financing for marine conservation in Belize. And our proposals address genuine long-term sustainability, by way of both policy revisions and financing flows.” – Prime Minister of Belize, John Briceño

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HON. KAREEM MUSA

ALASKA AIR MARKETS BELIZE IN SEATTLE

“Very serious state of crime and violence in our country… Admittedly, crime did not start thirteen years ago, but the fact that it is now thirteen year olds committing these murders speaks volumes of the deliberate policy of south side abandonment and systematic collapse at

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heavy level by the last administration. ”

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GOB invests $31m in DFC Pg. 8 Government is concurrently working to create an environment that attracts investment for development and creates opportunities for all Belizeans to improve their quality of life. The government of Prime Minister Briceño sees the DFC as a critical part of our economic recovery and growth strategy.

WANTED UDP’S MONTERO The Belize Police Department, on Monday, circulated a warrant for the arrest of former UDP Minister of Works, Rene Montero, Sr., and civilian, George Andrews, who reportedly worked as Montero’s right hand out of the Works Unit during the UDP administration. The two are wanted for willfully abusing their authority.

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02 2 Wanted, Montero Following several months of tedious investigations and gathering evidence, the Belize Police Department, on Monday, circulated a warrant for the arrest of former UDP Minister of Works, Rene Montero, Sr., and civilian, George Andrews, who reportedly worked as Montero’s right hand out of the Works Unit during the UDP administration. The two are wanted for willfully abusing their authority to the injury of the public, between April 14, 2016, and November 12, 2020. The charge on the warrant, made out and addressed to Inspector of Police Julio Shal, instructs all Police Constables to apprehend and bring in Montero and Andrews to be further dealt with by the law for the charge of Willful Oppression, which

WANTED UDP’S MONTERO

contravenes Sections 284 and 309 of the Criminal Code, Chapter 101 of the Laws of Belize. A wanted poster, complete with Montero’s physical description, was also issued after Police efforts to find Montero at locations where he is known to always frequent have proven futile so far. Then, in a late-evening press release on Monday, Orson Elrington turned the matter into a complete circus, claiming that Montero, who is his client, was out of the country for medical reasons and that he knew nothing of the warrant for his arrest. That claim was swiftly shot down the following day when Commissioner of Police, Chester Williams, told the

PRESS RELEASE

Cabinet Brief Belmopan. 8th September 2021 The Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Hon. John Briceño, met in regular session on 7th September 2021. • Cabinet was updated on the status of vaccines and the number of vaccines available in Belize. As of 7th September 2021, 173,077 persons or 40.2% of the population had received at least one dose of the vaccine. This represents an increase of 5,481 new vaccinations over last week’s numbers. As of 7th September 2021, 76,279 persons or 17.1% of the population has been fully vaccinated, an increase of 6,365 more Belizeans have been fully vaccinated over last week’s 69,924. • Since the roll-out of the Pfizer vaccines, 14,875 Belizeans, ages 12 to 17 years, have received their first shot of the vaccine. • The Prime Minister updated Cabinet on developments in relation to the renegotiations of the Super Bond which, if successful, would eliminate BZ$500 million of public debt or 12 cents of every dollar Belize owes. This is a part of government’s home-grown recovery program with extensive budget benefits in the short-term: providing room for public finance rebound, gross fiscal saving amounting to 5% GDP in the short-term, in line with Plan Belize’s commitment to secure debt relief and public debt reduction. • Cabinet was briefed on the efforts by the Ministry of Home Affairs and New Growth Industries to get more weapons off the streets and welcomed the news from the Hon. Kareem Musa that 14 illegal weapons were seized. This was done in specific areas of Southside Belize City since the State of Emergency was instituted. • Hon. Dolores Balderamos Garcia, Minister of Human Development, Families and Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs, provided Cabinet with additional pointers on proposals to the general agreement of the Maya Free Prior and Informed Consent (FPIC) Protocol. • Hon. Francis Fonseca, Minister of Education, Culture, Science and Technology, updated Cabinet on plans for safe and virtual activities in relation to the celebration of St. George’s Caye Day. • Finally, Cabinet wishes all Belizeans a safe and happy St. George’s Caye Day and reminds everyone to wear masks, social distance, wash hands and encourages those not fully vaccinated to do so. Vaccinations save lives. Ends

12 SEP

THE BELIZE TIMES

media that since Elrington has seen the warrant, as the defendant’s attorney, he “should do the right thing and bring his client in and make it much easier.” Williams also questioned the veracity of the claim that Montero was out of the country since multiple reports are that Montero, accompanied by another person, pulled up in a Toyota Hilux pickup truck at the western border point on Saturday in an attempt to cross over into Guatemala, but that he was not allowed to leave. “That’s the reason why I don’t even believe he’s out of the country, but if his attorney is saying that he is, then his attorney can bring him into us. I don’t think the Police should call somebody when you have a warrant to arrest them. The Police would normally go, locate you and bring you in. Now the attorney knows, he has seen the arrest warrant, then the attorney should do the right thing and bring his client in and make it much easier,” Williams said on Tuesday when he spoke to reporters on the matter.The investigation that led to the issuance of the arrest warrant goes back to January, when CEO in the Ministry of Infrastructure Development, Victor Espat, wrote to the Commissioner of Police, the Attorney General, and the Integrity Commission to hold Montero accountable for alleged abuse of power and of public resources for private gain. That request was accompanied by the

2021 Ministry’s acquisition of sworn statements from several persons who were willing to testify in a court of law.In his letter to the Chair of the Integrity Commission, Espat reported breaches of Sections 15 and 18 of the Code of Conduct for Members of the National Assembly and Public Officers over “wanton and prolonged abuse and misuse of the resources of the Ministry of Works for private gain.” In his letter to the Attorney General’s office, Espat sought legal action to recover the losses to revenue, brought on by the “wanton and prolonged abuse.” The alleged abuse of public equipment, human resources and fuel to carry out work on private property that Montero or his family reportedly owns translated to losses that the Ministry had estimated to be in the vicinity of $20 million. Most of the pieces of equipment, used for heavy-duty road and farm work, were never returned to the Ministry after they were used. Two of the pieces, a bulldozer and a front-end loader, “may have been on the farm of Mister Rene Montero,” Commissioner Williams told the media shortly after the Police recovered them soon after the November general elections when Montero lost miserably. A grader was recovered from the Ladyville area and another one from Spanish Lookout thereafter. When asked about the investigation against Montero in January, Williams had agreed that there was “some degree of criminal wrongdoing.” Justice will prevail as soon as Montero comes forward.

Alaska Air Markets Belize in Seattle Alaska Air is set to come to Belize on November 19 and it is a BIG deal for the airline. It is also a hallmark of the Tourism industry and Hon. Anthony Mahler’s vision to get Belize back onto its Tourism feet and sprinting under control. With all our Tourism stakeholder vaccinated Belize is poised for an end of year boom. Specifically, Alaska Air is on an all-out marketing strategy of their new Central American destination. They are even using their adopted Husky Stadium to showcase the destination that will be only their 2nd in C.A. Belize and The Belize Tourist Board is proud to receive Alaska Air from Seattle and Los Angeles. Come visit our Belize!!

The Belize Times

Established 1957

14 APR 2013

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ISSUE NO: 4840

The Truth Shall Make You Free

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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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12 SEP

2021

THE BELIZE TIMES

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EDITORIAL

Count Your Blessings and Make Them Count!

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elize has been blessed many ways and many times, from “the Rio Hondo to the Old Sarstoon.” Perhaps her greatest blessings however are her people. Belizeans, we come from a wide variety of ethnicities, religions, places, cultures, and traditions. We have all, however, made this wonderful spot our home, and as the saying goes… “there’s no place like home.” Over the last quarter we have made significant gains, we have regrown our economy by over 22% against all odds and in the face of all the naysayers and cynics, some of whom were hoping earnestly that we would fail. The economy is once again flourishing, putting more Belizeans back to work and we have defied expectations in how quickly and powerfully we have bounced back. In March, we quietly went to the polls and cleared away the last of the vestiges of one of the most dangerous and vile threats to our economy. Yet, we have one more threat that remains and we must do our best to eliminate it and banish it. That threat is Covid-19, it is real, and it has now claimed more lives than it needed to because we have vaccines readily available. Once again there is a need for brave Belizeans to exercise their right to live and work in peace and free from fear, and just as before we need to line up but this time to vaccinate. Governments the world over have all done their very best to keep their people safe. Those like the USA have tried to sustain the social safety nets for their citizens for as long as they can, just like here at home. However, those first world countries like ours have found it is no longer sustainable. Countries that can are investing in the health of their citizens by the procurement of sufficient quantities of vaccines. Belize, unlike other countries in this region, has invested in the welfare of her citizens and sourced enough vaccines to provide adequate coverage for all its population. This is no small or cheap feat. These vaccines are now the most crucial factor in maintaining and expanding our economy. A country’s economic health is the mirror of the health of its population. If the economy is weak, it is a direct consequence of the nonproductivity of its citizens and this is most often the result of a sickly populace. The Briceño administration has ensured that it has enough vaccines for comprehensive coverage. We must get back to work, but we can only do that after we first achieve a significant level of herd immunity. Belizeans must take advantage of the opportunity that has been given to them and choose to vaccinate. We have a real opportunity to show the world again that little Belize can again defy the expectations and brave any odds and triumph. Where other populations are large and vaccinations are few, we are relatively small and have enough, and we are poised and ready to take advantage of all the benefits that come from being able to move and work more freely. Our health resources are being stretched thin; we have chosen to invest in vaccines instead of morgues. Belize must choose to live instead of waiting for this grim reaper to claim us while we patiently wait, suffer, and die. The time is now, and there is no more time to wait, we must vaccinate. Belize, tonight as you lay down close your eyes, and count the 800,000 vaccines as the times we have been blessed, and make each of them count.


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THE BELIZE TIMES

EDITORIAL

12 SEP

2021

en Español

¡Cuenta Tus Bendiciones y Hazlas Valer!

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elice ha sido bendecida de muchas maneras y en muchas ocasiones, desde “el Río Hondo hasta el Viejo Sarstún”. Sin embargo, quizá su mayor bendición sea su gente. Los beliceños procedemos de una gran variedad de etnias, religiones, lugares, culturas y tradiciones. Sin embargo, todos hemos hecho de este maravilloso lugar nuestro hogar, y como dice el refrán... “no hay lugar como el hogar”. En el último trimestre hemos logrado importantes avances, hemos recuperado nuestra economía en más de un 22% contra todo pronóstico y frente a todos los detractores y cínicos, algunos de los cuales esperaban fervientemente que fracasáramos. La economía está floreciendo de nuevo, haciendo que más beliceños vuelvan a trabajar, y hemos desafiado las expectativas en cuanto a la rapidez y la fuerza con la que nos hemos recuperado. En marzo acudimos tranquilamente a las urnas y eliminamos los últimos vestigios de una de las amenazas más peligrosas y viles para nuestra economía. Sin embargo, nos queda una amenaza más y debemos hacer todo lo posible por eliminarla y desterrarla. Esa amenaza es el Covid-19, es real, y ya se ha cobrado más vidas de las que eran necesarias ya que tenemos vacunas fácilmente disponibles. Una vez más es necesario que los valientes beliceños ejerzan su derecho a vivir y trabajar en paz y libres de miedo, y al igual que antes debemos alinearnos, pero esta vez para vacunarnos. Los gobiernos de todo el mundo han hecho todo lo posible para mantener a su población a salvo. Muchos como los Estados Unidos han tratado de mantener las redes de seguridad social para sus ciudadanos durante todo el tiempo que han podido, al igual que aquí en casa. Sin embargo, esos países del primer mundo, como el nuestro, han descubierto que ya no es sostenible. Los países que pueden están invirtiendo en la salud de sus ciudadanos mediante la adquisición de cantidades suficientes de vacunas. Belice, a diferencia de otros países de esta región, ha invertido en el bienestar de sus ciudadanos y ha adquirido suficientes vacunas para proporcionar una cobertura adecuada a toda su población. No es una hazaña pequeña ni barata. Estas vacunas son ahora el factor más crucial para mantener y expandir nuestra economía. La salud económica de un país es el espejo de la salud de su población. Si la economía es débil, es una consecuencia directa de la improductividad de sus ciudadanos, y ésa suele ser el resultado de una población enferma. El gobierno de Briceño se ha asegurado de tener suficientes vacunas para una cobertura extensa. Debemos volver a trabajar, pero sólo podremos hacerlo si primero logramos un nivel significativo de inmunidad de rebaño. Los beliceños deben aprovechar la oportunidad que se les ha dado y optar por la vacunación. Tenemos una oportunidad real de volver a demostrar al mundo que el pequeño Belice puede volver a desafiar las expectativas y enfrentarse a cualquier adversidad y triunfar. Donde otras poblaciones son grandes y las vacunas son escasas, nosotros somos relativamente pequeños y tenemos suficientes, y estamos preparados y listos para aprovechar todos los beneficios que se derivan de poder moverse y trabajar más libremente. Nuestros recursos sanitarios se están agotando; hemos elegido invertir en vacunas en lugar de morgues. Belice debe elegir vivir en lugar de esperar a que este Ángel de la muerte nos reclame mientras esperamos, sufrimos y morimos pacientemente. El momento es ahora, y no hay más tiempo para esperar, debemos vacunarnos. Belice, esta noche al acostarte cierra los ojos y cuenta las 800.000 vacunas como las veces que hemos sido bendecidos, y haz que cada una de ellas cuente.


12 SEP

2021

THE BELIZE TIMES

POSSUM & THE PUP

Edward Meighan January 30, 1960, - September 4, 2021 (61 years old) Belize City September 8, 2021 Who is a “PUP”? This is a question that some may feel is too big to ask in a small reflection about a man whose joys overflowed from mundane political things. Ordinary things like getting the latest PUP t-shirt or a Freetown wrist band. Otherwise insignificant things like being in the peripheral backdrop of a news item while a PUP politician with first name notoriety like “Said”, “Johnny” “Francis” “Cordell” or “Kareem” was championing a national cause. The contrast to who he was and those named titans can never be lost. It cannot be lost because this is just not how the PUP works. And it is why the magnitude of our grand old party will never lose its personal touch. But the Truth is there is no contrast. In fact, for the real “heart and soulers” of the Party, Edward Meighan Breaffith - the man who proudly claimed the pet name “Possum”- was not the contrast to the heavy hitting giants, he, and many others like him, was the very spirit of our Party. His death, which took him peacefully in his sleep, is an opportunity for the big Blue tent to reflect. To look back and look inward. Our People’s United Party, takes insults with the best chin in professional politics. The biggest insult is the devious scandal that the PUP and UDP are the same. This is furthest from the truth. Possum’s life, commitment and joys is indestructible proof that the PUP lives by a fundamentally different world view grounded in honor, simplicity and humanity. After all, we are the Party of Mr. George Cadle Price. A man who insisted on creating a political party and new country with staunchly Christian ideals. Ideals that prioritized the Matthew 25:40 call for humility in perspective. Don’t be deceived. The “least of the brethren” code and the “serve the people” creed are but synonyms. There is a story Possum would

tell of how on the UDP radio station, the hosts were making fun of poor and homeless people who insisted on wearing PUP t-shirts after election losses. He found it incredibly insensitive and elitist. There are some who scorn and look at the faithful group of men and women stationed outside Independence Hall each day. They ridicule the loyalty and the hope of our people. But take this challenge. Go to Belchina and tell me how many people like Possum are gathered there? None. In fact, no one is there at all. Possum died a happy man. We can only imagine his raspy laugh, and semi-pro basketball frame brisking around heaven, helping the other angels get through their day. No task was too small for him. He recognized the demons of his past but was forever grateful for the trust that was repeatedly, and sometimes unjustifiable, extended to him by the Party, Headquarters and all the brothers and sisters in the PUP family. Possum was us and we were him. He was proud of two things, his family that he hustled and sweat all day for and his beloved Party. As a Party our commission is to always source our “inner Possum”. That innocent belief, despite the scars, in the certainty that with honest support our leaders will always get it right. Possum deserves the superlatives in his passing. Sometimes we need simple reminders of where we came from. Possum’s narrow face and shy smile remained even the darkest days of our Party’s history. During the 13 years of persecution in Opposition, Possum never waived, jumped ship or considered moving from his post. He would religiously show up and ask “anything for me to do?”. He served his Party. He was sure of our mission and he made sure he played his part. If that part meant taking the weekly packages to the Municipal Airport, then so let it be. If it meant running to buy water for a Party Executive meeting that had gone longer than expected, so be it. If it meant walking a female politician to her car in the downtown evening of Belize City, then so be it. But what meant most to him was knowing that he was a member, a soldier, a valued contributor to a Party that believed that the common man was more important than the richest man. He was sure that the PUP was the best thing for the country. He was part of something virtuous. The Party reflected what his childhood wishes for himself was. Each time he painted or did odd jobs or reminisced about the days when he worked full time in the Ministry of Works, you saw the inspiring light of a man many people would walk right past without moment. But for us PUPs, he was important. His family, friends and loved ones will miss his quiet style, ready spirit and his love of movement. We are a Party that takes no one for granted.

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COMPREHENSIVE ELECTRIFICATION AND WATER PROJECTS UNDERWAY It was a shock and a shame to learn from the Minister of Rural Transformation, Community Development, Hon. Oscar Requeña at last Friday’s House Sitting that there are 36 villages in Belize that are still without electricity supply and several more whose water systems are in dire need of upgrading or replacing. This spells out that there was blatant neglect and abandonment by the previous UDP administration over the 13 years that they were in power in the most incompetent manner. There is hope in this new PUP Government and planBelize, however, with Hon. Requena’s announcement that several of these villages and many more that are still with substandard or no potable water supply at all will have those amenities in a few short months. Today’s Government’s untiring effort to find the funds to put people’s basic human needs first and to be able to accelerate these types of projects at a time when a pandemic and an irresponsible UDP crowd has left the public finances in tatters is nothing short of a Herculean effort, but one that the PUP will make look easy. Hon. Requena shared that, in the first instance, mini-grids will be installed in nine villages to enable them to have access to electricity, water and telecommunications services at a cost of $4.5 million Euros or roughly $18 million BZE. But that was not all that Hon. Requena had to share. “I also want to say that I am very happy to report to the nation that work is well underway in the completion of the mini-grid for Medina Bank, Golden Stream, and Indian Creek. We are hoping that that system is going to be up and running and commissioned by October of this year,” he said, adding that under a PACT Adaptation Fund, water resources will be provided through the use of solar energy and innovative management systems. This will be implemented at a cost of $9 million through grant funding.

“If we are successful, Madam Speaker, we are hoping to ensure that we get water to Dolores in the Toledo District, Boom Creek in the Toledo District, Copper Bank in Corozal, Otoxha in Toledo. We are currently doing a technical review of the concept note and we are going to be sending this to the Adaptation Fund and we are hoping that they will approve it so that we can get the work going,” the Minister said, no doubt to the delight of the residents of these communities. In addition, through the ACP/EU Global Climate Change Alliance, Santa Familia and Billy White Villages will also see infrastructural upgrades of their water systems. That will include the installation of filtration and chlorination systems. That project will cost $650,000 BZE. Several other water systems will also undergo rehabilitative work through the Belize Social Investment Fund and the CARICOM Development Fund after tendering for contracts are completed. These communities include Mahogany Heights, Georgeville, and San Antonio, Toledo. Other areas that will see upgrades in the coming months are Libertad and Concepcion in Corozal. Equally as shameful as the neglect of these communities, was the revelation that Hon. Requena made that of the 192 water boards across the country, a huge majority of them were operating with no accounting records, and they were left to run in the red by the Red. When the Government changed in November, the Ministry had to implement an overhauling of sorts and introduce proper accounting systems that should have already been in place. Coupled with this, there are some entities and private residences who still owe huge outstanding amounts for water supply in their communities. Time is only limit now to the resolve of Hon. Requena and the PUP government who is laser focussed to making Belize work for us all.

Each person is important. Possum felt that love. Lived that love. Reported to the Independent halls of that love each day. He is family. He may have been laughed at by the UDP and cast aside like garbage. “Unimportant and a nobody” to them but to us, the People’s United Party, he meant more than all the self-righteous 13 year fat cats put together. He would be happy to read this article. Happy that he was featured in the newspaper he carried around for 61 years in his hands and heart. We could imagine him looking down from heaven cheerleading the next four years and the second term of this current Government. Possum’s life is a reminder that as a Party, it is always

the simple things that win. We can imagine him in heaven doing a beeline to an open armed Mr. Price. He will say, “boss, when I left fi come yah, the Party mi di try a ting. We survived the 13 years in the wilderness and dey di try lead the people back to the promise land. They have latta work fi duh, but yuh woulda be proud.” Rest in Peace “Poss”. Queen street is not the same without you. Our hearts and the heart of the PUP is not the same without you. You were loved and your spirt will forever live on because your spirit is the spirit of the Party and the spirit of those who will ultimately inherit the kingdom of heaven. He would want us in chorus to cheer “PUP!!! ALL THE WAY!!!!!”


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THE BELIZE TIMES

12 SEP

2021 “VERY SERIOUS STATE OF CRIME AND VIOLENCE IN OUR Madam Speaker, I rise to make COUNTRY” a statement from the Ministry of Home Affairs regarding the very serious state of crime and violence in our country. A young Jesuit Priest shared with the Ministry his reflection on what it takes to lead in this time of Covid. He made things simple, a modern parable so to speak. He compared leading in COVID times in trying to help a large group out of a dark room where the lights have all gone out. He urged us on three principles, three tools to move people out of that dark place: Empathy, Gratitude and vulnerability. Those are the very tools that will return us to and keep us in a safe society. Today Madam Speaker we stand in defiance to the doubt, the fear, the disbelief that crime will rob us of our Belize. Any death through an act of violence is an unacceptable tragedy. Of recent we have been shaking our heads at the minors who have been caught up in gun fire. The heart breaking story of nine year old Jamir Mckoy, rubs wounds still not healed. The young people who have lost lives in a mindless cycle of violence continues to shock us all. Our thoughts and prayers are with all the friends and families of the victims. He said loudly that the responsibility for these crimes lies with the perpetrators of those crimes. Yesterday,

after and intensive investigation and the cooperation of key witnesses’ police were able to arrest and charge the alleged killer of the two minors Jamir Mckoy and Lloyd Myvette. Today, Madam Speaker we are nearing the expiration of a painful state of emergency. I am not afraid to share my personal agony in the option. Sometimes the available medication is bitter, however, unlike previous SOE’s, which was the sum total of the last administrations strategy. We are moving with greater precision, greater purpose and with a unified and cohesive plan of action. The strategy is to use a multi-sectoral and multi-ministerial approach to blitz the areas which are covered under the SOE with remedial work. We are resolved that our partners and partnerships with stake holders have a game changing role to play. The issuing of 40 ITVET scholarships to our most vulnerable, the intervention of The Department of Youth Services and the Leadership Intervention Unit. The announcement of plans for a free education pilot roll out on the south-side of Belize City even during a health crisis is our government’s resolve to address the other pandemic which has been brewing long before Covid at its root. We have called upon the churches madam speaker

to walk in with us and they have graciously accepted. The police will be boosting our surveillance camera coverage, sweeping illegal fire arms off the streets to which they have already, very quietly removed fourteen illegal fire arms and high powered weapons under the coverage of the SOE. Human Services will bring their weight to bare in helping with issues of truancy, domestic violence, child abuse and child neglect in these areas. The Financial Intelligence Unit will launch targeted programs to cover the financiers of the gangs, and seize the assets of the gangs which were secured through monies from criminal enterprises. The Prime Minister is all in, our government is all in. He has fearlessly ordered a bare fisted frontal attack on crime and threats to citizen security. It is an immediate priority. Belizeans must feel and be safe. As we’ve said before the beginning and ending of any remedy is not and cannot be to detain gang members. The remedy is what happens in the time you get while these gang members are separated from toxic environments boiling with neglect and hurt. Admittedly, crime did not start thirteen years ago, but the fact that it is now thirteen year olds commit-

ting these murders speaks volumes of the deliberate policy of south side abandonment and systematic collapse at heavy level by the last administration. We know it is a long walk back, but we believe in the long term success of our plan. In a few days we celebrate a mile stone of Independence, and although our country remain pristine compared to our developed friends, Belize can no longer think itself the forty year old virgin. But, I believe that at heart Belize is still the glittery eyed pre-teen Mr. Price helped birth on September 21st, 1981. The land where you could walk foreshore, buy Sunny and Tan bun, where you could eat magic shell and swim. The good old days. Editor’s Note: Hon. Musa made this statement before the Private Jessie Escobar tragedy. The details of that fateful and tragic night are forever engrained in Belizean minds. Worse yet, there are families that are suffering and mourning the loss of their loved one and their livelihoods in a split second. Hon. Kareem’s words nevertheless are fitting to all that Belize is suffering today due to Crime now during Covid and before Covid. We as a people have challenges up ahead. We can do it. We must change for the sake of our children.


12 SEP

2021

THE BELIZE TIMES

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Prime Minister

JOHN BRICEÑO Weekly Message – September 3 The Belizean Spirit: A Culture of Growth

Hi Everybody! It’s September and that means celebrations time again. It is beautiful to see our citizens and communities mobilized to offer various expressions of art in our towns. What strikes me deeply is the coming together of

the Belizean spirit. Just a month ago, we finally acknowledged, after 40 years as a young nation state, the importance of Emancipation Day, 1st August 2021. A few days ago, the Ministers of Home Affairs, with the Minister of Youth engaged in a powerful display of empathy and purpose meeting with young men from Belize City, to see how we can inch forward and grow ourselves out of a culture of death and destruction. The Belizean spirit grows when the majority of us line up and get vaccinated, when our farmers and ranchers wake up even earlier to make sure our crops and cattle can be exported, and when our teachers prepare in full anticipation of getting back for face to face schooling. We are a people at the intersection of two diverse geo-political spaces – Central America and the Caribbean, and this is where the fuel comes for our culture of growth. That our economy is roaring back at 22% growth in the last quarter speaks to the will and determination of our people and a government in touch with the realities of our financial crisis. It’s September, let us remind each other about who we are, and who we want to become. It is our culture of growth that drives our hopeful hearts and steady hands. Remember ‘Stay Safe’: wash your hands, watch your distance, and wear your mask. For those who have not yet been vaccinated, please do, vaccinations save lives. Thanks God Bless and Happy St. George’s Caye Day!


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THE BELIZE TIMES

Prime Minister John Briceño Statement:

Super Bond Cancellation & Blue Bonds for Marine Conservation Agreement

My fellow Belizeans, Later this week, Belize will launch an Offer to buy back and cancel the so-called Super Bonds. These public debts which have been on our books since 2007 have now climbed to some 572 million US dollars or over a billion Belize dollars. An additional 52M US dollars of these bonds will be reinstated on October 19 of this year if a settlement is not concluded by then. After many months of gruelling negotiations between the Government’s team and a Committee representing major holders of these bonds, an agreement in principle has been reached. With the consent of the Cabinet and the support of holders of 50% of the principal amount of the bonds, this agreement calls for the bondholders to sell their claim at a very significant discount to Belize. Specifically, this deal calls for a 48.3 percent discount to the face value of the Superbond together with, for those holders that tender during the offer period, a payment in lieu of accrued interest on the bonds. The Government proposes to raise the money for the discounted repurchase through a loan from an affiliate of The Nature Conservancy. In connection with that loan, Government will accelerate its marine conservation policies in a manner that will dramatically enhance the preservation of Belize’s precious seas, coral reefs and fish stocks. But let me be clear, the agreement-in-principle Government has hammered out with the bond holder committee does not guarantee that our proposal will ultimately succeed. While the Committee represents close to 50% of bond holders, the Offer will require 75% support in order to close. Government has taken the decision that this transaction must eliminate the entirety of the Superbond, not just part of it. And under the terms of the bonds, this requires the support of 75% of the holders. In addition, Government must now finalize the terms and conditions for the innovative financing being arranged by The Nature Conservancy and button up some outstanding features of the conservation partnership. And so, I emphasize that while we have completed a critical first phase of this process, ultimate success requires additional bond holder support, as well as agreement on certain conditions attendant to the TNC financing and the conservation objectives. If our proposals are consummated, however, Belize’s public debt will be instantly reduced by almost 500 million Belize dollars. To put this in perspective, 12 cents of every dollar of the public debt will be eliminated. This arrangement will also direct, on average, $8 million Belize dollars annually to marine conservation projects, upgrading the protection and management our marine patrimony. These conservation investments will create new jobs, buttress the tourism industry, fortify the fisheries sector and catalyse a flood of NGO interest in and financing for marine conservation in Belize. And our proposals address genuine long-term sustainability, by way of both policy revisions and financing flows. Government proposes to capitalize

a Marine Conservation Endowment, whose investment earnings over the next 20 years will grow to 184 million Belize dollars. This Endowment has been designed to ensure conservation project funding in perpetuity. The Proposals we advance will usher in a new era of cooperation between our Ministries of the Blue Economy and Sustainable Development, on the one hand, and on the other, the NGO conservation fraternity, the fisherfolk, the coastal communities and indeed the entire collective of marine stakeholders. Government’s major eco-marine conservation undertakings will include the expansion of biodiversity zones, the design and implementation of a marine spatial plan, revisions to the integrated coastal zone management framework, additional safeguards to the Belize Barrier Reef Reserve System and refinements to the management of blue carbon, critical watersheds, the aquaculture sector as well as changes to the environmental impact assessment process. All told, in addition to the almost 500m Belize dollars of debt reduction, Government will make conservation investments that will total some 172 million Belize dollars over the next 20 years, plus an Endowment funding of 47m Belize dollars, which should swell to that 184 million Belize dollars by 2041. In the short term, under the existing terms of the Super Bond, Belize would have been required to pay some 245M BZ dollars in interest alone during the 5-year term of our Administration. With our Proposals, Government will pay 115m BZ dollars in interest, thus generating cash flows savings of some 130m BZ dollars. Despite having been restructured three separate times over the last 14 years, on its current terms, the Superbond calls for payments aggregating more than BZ$1.8 billion over its remaining life, including that principal reinstatement. Even after netting out the anticipated cost of the funding required for this operation, we expect that cancelling the Superbond will save for the Belizean taxpayer more than BZ$530m in gross debt repayments. My administration promised you debt reduction and debt relief. This Proposal delivers both in spades. And it addresses, with an exceptional level of innovation, overarching policy and financing needs for Belize’s coastline, seas and Barrier Reef. Retiring the super bond, of course, does not solve all our public debt problems. There are further steps to be taken with regard to both bilateral debts and domestic debt. My Administration will address these priorities in the coming months and eventually, as I promised, bring the public debt back down to sustainable levels. Belize was forced to seek yet another restructuring of the Superbond as a result of the terrible devastation to the Belize economy wrought by the Covid pandemic. We did not do it lightly. We did not do it willingly. Our ability to make a cash offer for the bond is entirely attributable to TNC’s offer of new financing. But we have stretched the limits of that new financing

12 SEP

2021

GOB INVESTS $31M IN DFC Keynote Address: Hon. Christopher Coye, Minister of State Ministry of Finance, Economic Development & Investment September 6, 2021 Chairman Anderson, General Manager Goff, Financial Secretary, CEO, ladies and gentlemen: It is an honor for me, to represent the Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, Economic Development and Investment, Hon John Briceno, to formally accept this Share Certificate on behalf of the Government and people of Belize. As is no secret to anyone, we inherited an economy that was in recession before the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic. The pandemic severely deepened this recession exposing the adverse effects of excessive overreliance on tourism as tourism was shut down and the economy contracted by an unprecedented 14%. With the UDP’s mismanagement, the public finances were left in shambles with low revenues, high expenditures and an unsustainable debt load. The then UDP government had no solutions other than to hamper the export of cattle, borrow almost one million dollars per day and capitalize interest payments on the superbond so we would owe even more money to the bondholders. This PUP administration has faced these challenges head on and made the tough decisions necessary to turn around this country. With the stellar efforts of the Minister of Agriculture and his team in export development and trade facilitation including but certainly not limited to the export of cattle almost from day one of the PUP administration, agriculture is now leading the economic resurgence growing almost 25% in the second quarter of this year. Through the tireless efforts of the Minister of Tourism and his team, tourism is not far behind growing by almost 20% in the second quarter as well. Overall, our economy is now headed in the right direction experiencing an overall growth of over 22% in the second quarter and over 6% for the first six months of this year, more than double if not triple what our IFI partners like the IMF expected. On the public finances, through more prudent public financial management, this government is no longer borrowing a million dollars a day. This has been discontinued for almost six months now. Government’s revenues have been steadily increasing and expenditures have been kept under check. For the first four months of this fiscal year, preliminary indications are that we actually have a small primary surplus, meaning we are now operating in the black not in the red. Many of you are now aware of our efforts in renegotiating the superbond. We still have some ways to go to get that across the finish line but we look forward to that day and to the substantial savings of almost half a billion dollars to the government and people of Belize that it can bring. In addition to addressing these macro issues, Government is concurrently working to create an environment that attracts investment for development and creates opportunities for all Belizeans to improve their quality of life. The government of Prime Minister Briceño sees the DFC as a critical part of our economic recovery and growth strategy. While the past

as far as our projected resources will allow. If this proposal fails for lack of bondholder support, a precious opportunity will have been squandered. That opportunity will not knock a second time. I, therefore, encourage the Bond Holder Committee, The Nature Conservancy and its partners, and all others involved in the arrangements, to

UDP administration all but abandoned the DFC watching its loan portfolio shrink and leaving it to suffer substantial losses of almost $14mn over the last six years, this Briceño government sees the DFC as a vital tool to support productive sector investment, economic development and economic transformation and therefore an important institution to invest in and not to disregard. This $31.1M debt to equity conversion including the transfer of GOB agency programs to DFC, represents the single largest equity investment by the government of Belize into the DFC ever. As DFC notes, this injection “will facilitate on-lending primarily in the agriculture sector, at lower interest rates, and with less restrictions and conditions.” Covid reminded us of the importance of having a strong productive sector to help us absorb external and global economic shocks on our more susceptible tourism and service sectors. At the same time, with the inherent risks to weather conditions and other factors, the agriculture sector finds it difficult to access financing from the commercial banks and therefore requires financing through an institution like the DFC which, with Government and regional financial institutions support, can provide more accessible and affordable funding. As highlighted in PlanBelize, an essential component of this administration’s economic recovery and transformation is pinned on the revitalization and strengthening of the agricultural and productive sectors. We are committed to “Focus policy implementation on import replacement and substitution, export expansion and strengthening the linkages of tourism with our local productive sectors as the primary means to grow our national economy.” Government is also committed to improve access to affordable financing for farmers and micro, small and medium size entrepreneurs. For government to carry out this mandate it requires a strong and relevant development finance partner like the DFC. We therefore welcome and support the DFC’s efforts to pursue and secure more affordable funding. In this regard, we are pleased to report not only on Government’s $31mn investment in DFC but also that Government and the DFC are in the final stages of securing a new line of credit from the IDB for the DFC of $30 million at an interest rate below 2% per annum, a clear demonstration of the confidence our IFI partner has in this Government and the DFC. We are further progressing discussions for financing from the Republic of China, Taiwan’s International Cooperation and Development Fund for an additional $10 million primarily for MSME’s led by women. DFC is also pursuing Green Climate Fund accreditation which will enable it to access significant funding from the global climate finance mechanisms for on lending to borrowers seeking to build climate resiliency For Belize to effectively recover from the effects of the COVID 19 pandemic and build a more resilient economy it needs a strong and relevant Development Finance Corporation. Government is therefore proud and pleased to be an equity partner with the DFC.

do everything possible to conclude these agreements as soon as possible. For our part, Government commits to putting Belize’s full effort behind this objective. May God bless Belize. Thank you.


12 SEP

2021

THE BELIZE TIMES

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12 SEP

THE BELIZE TIMES

2021

PUBLIC AUCTION SALE: FABULOUS WATERWAY PROPERTY Moho Bay Area, Belize City, Belize 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 below described property. Sale currently running and will expire Monday 20th September 2021 at 2:30 pm. Parcel No. 1609 Moho Bay Area, Belize City:

Ministry of Agriculture, Food Security and Enterprise Ph: # (501) 822-2131/41 Email: info@agriculture.gov.bz Website: www.agriculture.gov.bz PROCUREMENT NOTICE Procurement of FRAMING MATERIAL for Covered Structure Project REGISTRATION SECTION BLOCK PARCEL Caribbean Shores 16 1609 (Being a fabulous two-storey concrete dwelling house [3,941 sq. ft.] containing 4 bedrooms + 3 full walk-in closets + 3 bathrooms + Powder room+ living/dining/kitchen + Laundry + 2 verandas + Fully flat concrete roof with railings + 2 storerooms + Garage (4 vehicles parking) and lot [623 sq. yds.] situate 2 lots from the sea in Moho Bay Area, Belize City, the freehold property.) VIEWING AVAILABLE WITH 24 HOURS NOTICE TERMS: STRICTLY CASH KEVIN A. CASTILLO TELEPHONE 223-4488 Website: belizepropertyauctions.com E-mail: kevinacas@yahoo.com Facebook: Belize Auctions

PUBLIC AUCTION SALES: PROPERTIES PUBLIC AUCTION PROPERTIES Placencia Pensinsula, Stann Creek District PUBLIC AUCTIONSALES: SALES: PROPERTIES Placencia PlacenciaPensinsula, Pensinsula,Stann StannCreek CreekDistrict District

BY ORDER of the Mortgagees Messrs. The BelizeInternational Bank International Licensed Auctioneers Y ORDER ofofthe Messrs. Belize Limited,Limited, Licensed A. BY ORDER theMortgagees Mortgagees Messrs.The The BelizeBank Bank International LicensedAuctioneers AuctioneersKevin Kevin Kevin A. Castillo and Christiana R. Castillo are selling ONLINELimited, via belizepropertyauctions.com thoseA. stillo and Christiana R. Castillo are selling ONLINE via belizepropertyauctions.com those properties astillo and Christiana R. Castillo are selling ONLINE via belizepropertyauctions.com those properties properties appearing below. Sales currently running and will expire on Monday 13th September 2021 at th aring will expire ononMonday earingbelow. below.Sales Salescurrently currentlyrunning runningand and will expire Monday 13thSeptember September2021 2021atatthe thetimes timesshown shownononthe the the times shown on the 13 website. website. website. 1. No. 1486 West Wind Drive, The Placencia Residences, Placencia Peninsula, Stann o.1486 1486West WestWind WindDrive, Drive,The ThePlacencia PlacenciaResidences, Residences,Placencia PlacenciaPeninsula, Peninsula,Stann StannCreek CreekDistrict: District: Creek District:

Project Country: Belize Financing Institution: CDF (CARICOM Development Fund) Project Name: Covered Structure Project Title: Specific Procurement Notice Project Number: BZ/G00009 The Ministry of Agriculture, Food Security and Enterprise is hereby requesting Expression of Interest Solicitations for the Supply of FRAMNG MATERIAL for the construction of 30 Covered Structures.

Item No.

Quantity

Items Description

1

630

Lengths

Metal Arch 1-3/8” X 17.6 FT 18G GALV Swedged ends

2

1260

Lengths

Uprights 1-3/8” X 10ft 14g

3

630

Lengths

Side brace pipe 1/2” X 20ft, 14g Galv. Swedged ends

4

5550

Units

Wire locks

5

630

Lengths

Locking profiles 20ft

6

90

Units

Locking wire

7

300

Lengths

2”x4”x8’ Treated Pine

8

150

Lengths

1”x4”x12’ Treated Pine

9

450

Lengths

1”x4”x10’ Treated Pine

10

120

Posts

Sapodilla post 3” x 3” x 7”

11

240

Lengths

Square tubing 1 1/4” x 14g

12

60

Lengths

Angle iron 1 1/2” x 3/16”

13

120

Units

Weldable hinges 3 1/2”

14

6

Boxes

Welding rods 6013 3/32” (10-11 lbs each)

15

30

Unit

Hasp and staple (3 1/2”)

16

60

Units

Door handles

17

60

Units

Door spring

18

60

Bags

Cement (Maya 50kg)

19

1

load

Sand & Gravel (15 cubic yards)

20

150

Feet

Metal fabric (8ft wide x ¼” steel)

21

8

Lengths

2”x20’ PVC Pipe Sch 21

22

60

Units

2” Elbow (90◦) Sch 40

23

30

Units

2” Female adapter Sch 40

24

30

Unit

2” threaded End cap Sch 40

Lumber

REGISTRATION SECTION REGISTRATION SECTION BLOCK

PARCELS

BLOCK PARCEL REGISTRATION SECTION BLOCK PARCEL Placencia 1486 Placencia North 36 1486 3636 PlacenciaNorth North 1486 ing einga athree threestorey storeytimber/vinyl timber/vinyldwelling dwellinghouse: house:Ground GroundFloor Floor2828ft.ft.XX5959ft.ft.++porch porch88ft.ft.XX2828ft.ft. (Being a three storey timber/vinyl dwelling house: Ground Floor 28 ft. X 59room ft. + porch 8 ft.under X 28 ft. taining 22bedrooms ++11bathroom ++living/dining/kitchen ++laundry ++utility ntaining bedrooms bathroom living/dining/kitchen laundry utility room++storage storage underuncontaining 2 bedrooms 1 ft. bathroom +5 living/dining/kitchen +master laundry + utility+room + storage rcase; First Floor: 2222ft.ft.XX+ 4343 ++porch ft.ft.XX2222ft.ft.containing bedroom bathroom ++walk-in ircase; First Floor: ft. porch 5 containing master bedroom + bathroom walk-in der staircase; First Floor: 22 ft. X 43 ft. + porch 5 ft. X 22 ft. containing master bedroom + bathroom + et; Second 1010ft.ft.10 viewing attic (access totoall(access floors via concrete staircase oset; SecondFloor: Floor:10 10ft.ft.XXFloor: viewing (access allthree threeto floors viainternal internal staircase walk-in closet; Second ft. X 10 attic ft. viewing attic all three floors viaconcrete internal concrete hthtimber steps) and lot square meters square yards)] Wind The timber steps) and lot[919.702 [919.702 square meters(1099.95 (1099.95 square yards)]situate situateon onWest Westsituate WindDrive, Drive, The staircase with timber steps) and lot [919.702 square meters (1099.95 square yards)] on West cencia Residences, Creek District, Ron acencia Residences, Placencia Peninsula,Stann Stann Creek District,the thefreehold freehold propertyof ofMr. Mr. Ron propWind Drive, ThePlacencia PlacenciaPeninsula, Residences, Placencia Peninsula, Stann Creekproperty District, the freehold kowski and Ms. Barbara Bell.) erty of Mr. Ron Oczkowski and Ms. Barbara Bell.) czkowski and Ms. Barbara Bell.) *******NB. use available request******* *******NB.on Restrictions on useisis of Propertyupon is available upon request******* *******NB.Restrictions Restrictions on useofofProperty Property available upon request******* West Wind Drive, The Placencia Residences, Placencia Stann District: o.2108 2108 West Wind Drive, The Placencia Residences, PlacenciaPeninsula, Peninsula,Peninsula, StannCreek Creek District: 2. No. 2108 West Wind Drive, The Placencia Residences, Placencia Stann Creek District:

REGISTRATION SECTION REGISTRATION SECTIONBLOCK REGISTRATION SECTION

BLOCK BLOCK PARCELS

PARCEL PARCEL Placencia 3636 2108 PlacenciaNorth North 2108 Placenciaconcrete North building 36inclusive ing einga atwo-storey two-storey concrete building[32 [32ft.ft.XX3232 inclusiveof2108 ofa aporch porch55ft.ft.XX1616ft.ft.++back backporch porch55ft.ft.wide wide taining Ground Floor: + walk-in closet ++bathroom ++living/dining/kitchen ++half ntaining Ground Floor:master masterbedroom bedroom walk-in closet bathroom living/dining/kitchen half5 ft. (Being a two-storey concrete building+[32 ft. X 32 inclusive of a porch 5 ft. X 16 ft. + back porch hroom + laundry Second Floor: 11bedroom + closet (access internal throom laundryroom; room; Second Floor: bedroom closet++bathroom bathroom (accessvia internalconcrete concrete&& wide+containing Ground Floor: master bedroom + + walk-in closet + bathroom +via living/dining/kitchen dedstaircase)] and lot [937.060 S.M.] situate on West Wind Drive, The Placencia Residences, Placencia staircase)] and lot [937.060 S.M.] situate on West Wind Drive, The Placencia Residences, Placencia + half bathroom + laundry room; Second Floor: 1 bedroom + closet + bathroom (access via internal insula, Stann District.) ninsula, Stann Creek District.) and lot [937.060 S.M.] situate on West Wind Drive, The Placencia Resiconcrete &Creek tiled staircase)] *******NB. Restrictions ononuse ofofProperty isisavailable dences, Placencia Peninsula, Stann Creek District.) *******NB. Restrictions use Property availableupon uponrequest******* request******* *******NB. Restrictions on use of Property is available upon request*******

ADDITIONAL - -www.belizebank.com (foreclosure listing) ADDITIONALINFORMATION INFORMATION www.belizebank.com ADDITIONAL INFORMATION(foreclosure listing) TERMS: TERMS:STRICTLY STRICTLYCASH CASH - www.belizebank.com (foreclosure listing) KEVIN KEVINA.A.CASTILLO CASTILLO TERMS: STRICTLY CASH TELEPHONE TELEPHONE223-4488 223-4488 KEVIN A. CASTILLO Website: belizepropertyauctions.com Website: belizepropertyauctions.com TELEPHONE 223-4488 E-mail: E-mail:kevinacas@yahoo.com kevinacas@yahoo.com Website:Face belizepropertyauctions.com FaceBook: Book:Belize BelizeAuctions Auctions

E-mail: kevinacas@yahoo.com Face Book: Belize Auctions

LIQUOR LICENSE NOTICE Notice is hereby given that Jian You Huang is applying for a Shop Liquor License to be operated at “Keffy’s Shop” located at # 1221 Blue Marlin Blvd., Coral Grove, Belize City, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Fasteners 25

150

lbs

1/4”x 1” Metal to metal (Unpainted)

26

60

lbs

3” Metal to wood (Unpainted)

27

60

lbs

3” Galvanized nail

28

60

lbs

1” Clout/Big Head nail

29

90

lbs

2” metal to metal (Unpainted)

30

60

lbs

1” Metal to wood (Unpainted)

Submission of Solicitations For further information, interested firms and companies can send an Expression of Interest solicitation to the below address before September 24th, 2021. Attention: Freddy Chable procurement.officer@agriculture.gov.bz Ministry of Agriculture, Food Security and Enterprise Belmopan City, Belize Procurement Notice is also available at: Public Procurement Notice Board https://cppnb.caricom.org/


12 SEP

11

THE BELIZE TIMES

2021

Brief Description of the Goods/Service

Ministry of Agriculture, Food Security and Enterprise Ph: # (501) 822-2131/41 Email: info@agriculture.gov.bz Website: www.agriculture.gov.bz PROCUREMENT NOTICE Procurement of Honey “Equipment and Materials” for the Honey Production Redevelopment Support Project Project Country: Belize Financing Institution: CDF (CARICOM Development Fund) Project Name: Honey Production Redevelopment Support Project Title: Specific Procurement Notice Project Number: BZ/G00008 The Ministry of Agriculture, Food Security and Enterprise is hereby requesting Expression of Interest Solicitations for the Supply of Honey “Equipment and Materials” for the Honey Production Redevelopment Support Project

LIQUOR LICENSE NOTICE Notice is hereby given that Wu Li Pin Yin is applying for a Restaurant Liquor License to be operated at “Wu Ma Fast Food” located at # 863 Philip Goldson Highway, Belize City, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

LIQUOR LICENSE NOTICE Notice is hereby given that Rachel Armstrong is applying for a Restaurant 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.

LIQUOR LICENSE NOTICE

Notice is hereby given that Rachel Armstrong is applying for a Restaurant Liquor License (Renewal 2022) 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.

LIQUOR LICENSE NOTICE Notice is hereby given that Santos A. Hernandez is applying for a Beer Liquor License to be operated at “Antonio’s Grocery & Fruit Shop” located at # 9171 La Croix Blvd., Belize City, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Sheets of Wax Stainless Steel Honey Extractors Stainless Steel De-Capping Tanks Stainless Steel Sedimentation Tank Pollen Traps Frame Feeders Queen Excluder Un-capping Honey Knife

Quantity

15,000 5 7 1 360 360 360 150

Submission of Solicitations For further information regarding specifications, size, and dimensions, interested firms and companies can send an Expression of Interest Solicitation to the below address before September 24th, 2021. Attention: Freddy Chable procurement.officer@agriculture.gov.bz Ministry of Agriculture, Food Security and Enterprise Belmopan City, Belize Procurement Notice is also available at: Public Procurement Notice Board https://cppnb.caricom.org/


58 12

12 SEP

5 SEP

THE BELIZE TIMES 2021

2021

THE BELIZE TIMES 2015

2021

BUILDING AND STRONG MOECST & Belize National Celebrations Belize @ 40 Mural Projects

PM John Briceño

In Corozal North Listening to the people

13

18 JAN

5 SEP

Hon. Dolores Balderamos Garcia, Belize Rural Central

Visiting with CC Chairlady Seleny Villanueva Pott

Belmopan

Min. Henry Charles Usher, Public Service, Constitutional & Political Reform

The President of the Women’s Commission in Caye Caulker

Min. Andre Perez, Blue Economy & Civil Aviation Orange Walk On Video call with Foreign Minister of the Republic of China (Taiwan) Dr. Jaushieh Joseph Wu

Min. Michel Chebat, Cayo North Signing MOU with Galen University on a Blue Economy Curriculum Benque

Keynote speaker at opening of Buena Vista Communications Centre

Ramiro Ramirez, Corozal Southwest Dangriga

Official visit to the Belizean Embassy in Washington DC

San Ignacio

Toledo Assisting with Immigration needs Corozal

In San Narciso during a cleanup session


2.

14

Georgeville, Cayo District, the freehold property of Mr. Ulric L. Willoughby) Lot No. 158 Sun Set Park,81/2 Miles, George Price Highway, Belize District:

THE BELIZE TIMES

12 SEP

2021

PUBLIC AUCTION SALES: PROPERTIES ALL THAT piece or parcel of land being Lot No. 158 containing 1,013.39 S.M. situate at Mile 8.5 on the Northern

Georgeville, Cayo District; Sunset Park, Paradise Side Village, Ladyville, City, Belize of Hector Creek Road, WesternBelize Highway, Belize District of BelizeDistrict more particularly shown and described in a PUBLIC AUCTION SALES: PROPERTIES

subdivision Plan of Survey by A. R. Marin, Certified Land Surveyor, recorded at The General Registry in Surveyors

PlanChristiana Book No. 6 R. at Folios 170are as Lot No. 158 TOGETHER with all buildings and erections standing and described being Georgeville, Cayo District; Sunset Park,The Paradise Village, City, Belize District Kevin A. Castillo and BY ORDER of the Mortgagees Messrs. Belize BankLadyville, Limited,Belize Licensed Auctioneers Castillo selling ONLINE via belizepropertyauctions.com the below thereon. a 2 Storey concrete dwelling house [5,110 sq. ft.] containing 4 bedrooms + 4 bathrooms + BY ORDER of the Mortgagees Messrs. The Belize Bank Corporation Limited, Licensed A. and will expire property. SaleAuctioneers currently Kevin running on (Being the dates and times thereon. Castillo and Christiana R. Castillo are selling ONLINE via belizepropertyauctions.com theremain below on described N.B. Properties will sale on this website on a bi-weekly basis until conclusion. living/dining/kitchen/laundry/game + 2 porches situate at Lot No. 158 Sun Set Park, Paradise Village, 8 1/2 Miles on properties. Sale currently running and will expire on the dates and times thereon.

N.B. Properties will remain on sale on this website on a bi-weekly basis until conclusion.

1.

Parcel No. 461 George Price Highway, Georgeville, Cayo District:

REGISTRATION SECTION BLOCK PARCEL Society Hall 24 461 (Being a two storey concrete building [3,132 sq. ft. + 900 sq. ft. Porch] containing Ground Floor - 2 bedrooms + 1 bathrooms + Living/Dining/Kitchen; First Floor - 2 Bedrooms + 1 Bathroom + Living/Dining/Kitchen; Detached Store Room 555 sq. ft. TOGETHER with lot [.727 acre] situate beside the George Price Highway, Georgeville, Cayo District, the freehold property of Mr. Ulric L. Willoughby) 2. Lot No. 158 Sun Set Park,81/2 Miles, George Price Highway, Belize District:

ALL THAT piece or parcel of land being Lot No. 158 containing 1,013.39 S.M. situate at Mile 8.5 on the Northern Side of Hector Creek Road, Western Highway, Belize District of Belize more particularly shown and described in a subdivision Plan of Survey by A. R. Marin, Certified Land Surveyor, recorded at The General Registry in Surveyors Plan Book No. 6 at Folios 170 as Lot No. 158 TOGETHER with all buildings and erections standing and being thereon. (Being a 2 Storey concrete dwelling house [5,110 sq. ft.] containing 4 bedrooms + 4 bathrooms + living/dining/kitchen/laundry/game + 2 porches situate at Lot No. 158 Sun Set Park, Paradise Village, 8 1/2 Miles on the north side of George Price Highway, Belize District, the freehold property of Mr. Lawrence Ellis and Mrs. Kimberly Ellis) 3. Lot No. 19 near Mile 10, Phillip Goldson Highway, Ladyville, Belize District:

the north side of George Price Highway, Belize District, the freehold property of Mr. Lawrence Ellis and Mrs. Kimberly Ellis) 3. Lot No. 19 near Mile 10, Phillip Goldson Highway, Ladyville, Belize District:

REGISTRATION SECTION BLOCK PARCEL Ladyville/Lords Bank 16 6200 (Being a concrete bungalow dwelling house: 3 bedrooms + 2 bathrooms + Living/Dining/Kitchen situate at Mile 10 Belize-Corozal Road, Ladyville, Belize District, the freehold property of Ms. Jasmine Middleton and Mr. Earl Arthurs) 4. Parcel No. 2407/1 Samuel Haynes Crescent, Belama Phase 1, Belize City:

Registration Section Caribbean Shores

Block 16

Parcel 2407/1

Parcel 2407/1

(Being a two-storey timber/concrete dwelling house [2,576 sq. ft.]: Ground Floor – two apartments each containing 2 bedrooms + 1 bathroom + living/dining/kitchen; First Floor - 3 bedrooms + 2 bathrooms + living/dining/kitchen and lot [380.516 square meters] situate on Samuel Haynes Crescent, Belama Phase 1, Belize City, the leasehold property of Ms. Elizabeth Villanueva.)

VIEWING AVAILABLE WITH 24 HOURS NOTICE TERMS: STRICTLYCASH KEVIN A. CASTILLO TELEPHONE 223-4488 Website: belizepropertyauctions.com E-mail: kevinacas@yahoo.com REGISTRATION SECTION BLOCK PARCEL Facebook: Belize Auctions Ladyville/Lords Bank 16 6200 (Being a concrete bungalow dwelling house: 3 bedrooms + 2 bathrooms + Living/Dining/Kitchen situate at Mile 10 Belize-Corozal Road, Ladyville, Belize District, the freehold property of Ms. Jasmine Middleton and Mr. Earl Arthurs) 4. Parcel No. 2407/1 Samuel Haynes Crescent, Belama Phase 1, Belize City:

Registration Section Caribbean Shores

Block 16

TERMS: STRICTLY CASH KEVIN A. CASTILLO TELEPHONE 223-4488 Website: belizepropertyauctions.com E-mail: kevinacas@yahoo.com Facebook: Belize Auctions


12 SEP

THE BELIZE TIMES

2021

15

Government of Belize Belize Social Investment Fund CARICOM Development Fund SUPPLY AND DELIVERY OF WATER METERS, PIPES, AND ACCESSORIES FOR WATER SUPPLY SYSTEMS IN CHUNOX, COROZAL DISTRICT; MAHOGANY HEIGHTS, BELIZE DISTRICT; GEORGEVILLE, CAYO DISTRICT; AND SAN ANTONIO, TOLEDO DISTRICT W/CDF-01/2021 INVITATION TO BID

BELIZE SOCIAL INVESTMENT FUND TENDER NOTICE Country: Belize Project: Caribbean Development Bank Loan No: 25/SFR-OR-BZE Project ID: 1509/8/E1 Contract Number: E/SL3-02/2021 National Competitive Bidding (NCB) Deadline: September 22, 2021

The Government of Belize (GoB) has received financing from the CARICOM Development Fund (CDF) to implement a project that focuses on improving water supply systems in four communities. The project comprises small-scale infrastructure works and capacity building for key stakeholders. The GoB has appointed the Belize Social Investment Fund (BSIF) as the Implementing Agency (IA) for the project and intends to apply a portion of the proceeds of this financing towards eligible payments under a contract for which this invitation is issued. Payments by CDF will be made only at the request of GOB and upon approval by CDF, and will be subject in all respects to the terms and conditions of the Financing Agreement. The Financing Agreement prohibits withdrawal from the financing account for the purpose of any payment to persons or entities, or for any import of goods, if such payment or import, to the knowledge of CDF, is prohibited by a decision of the United Nations Security Council taken under Chapter VII of the Charter of the United Nations. No party other than GOB shall derive any rights from the Financing Agreement or have any claim to the proceeds of the Financing.

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 Completion of the Corazon Creek Technical High School Building, Corazon Creek Village, Toledo District, Belize.

The Belize Social Investment Fund (BSIF), the IA, now invites sealed bids from qualified Bidders for the SUPPLY AND DELIVERY OF WATER METERS, PIPES, AND ACCESSORIES FOR WATER SUPPLY SYSTEMS IN CHUNOX, COROZAL DISTRICT; MAHOGANY HEIGHTS, BELIZE DISTRICT; GEORGEVILLE, CAYO DISTRICT; AND SAN ANTONIO, TOLEDO DISTRICT

Works shall include but not be limited to the following activities: construction of a reinforced concrete floor slab; construction of masonry walls; construction of reinforced concrete columns and beams; construction of a reinforced concrete roof; application of concrete rendering; construction of ceilings; installation of windows and doors; installation of electrical, plumbing, water supply and wastewater systems; application of surface finishes; and the undertaking of landscaping activities. Adherence to the contract’s environmental and safety protocols during construction is of paramount importance.

Bidders will be required to submit full qualification information with their bids establishing their eligibility to bid and qualification to perform the contract if the bid is accepted. Tender and qualification information are to be submitted in the English Language on the prescribed forms inserted in the Bid Documents. Submissions that do not provide the information required or that do not demonstrate the prospective firm’s ability to perform satisfactorily, will not qualify and will not be considered for further evaluation.

3. Final (Project Site) Destination as specified in BDS: Corazon Creek Village, Toledo District, Belize

A secured “sample” electronic Bid document can be shared with interested Bidders at the address below, starting August 23, 2021, 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: “TENDER FOR SUPPLY AND DELIVERY OF WATER METERS, PIPES, AND ACCESSORIES FOR WATER SUPPLY SYSTEMS IN CHUNOX, COROZAL DISTRICT; MAHOGANY HEIGHTS, BELIZE DISTRICT; GEORGEVILLE, CAYO DISTRICT; AND SAN ANTONIO, TOLEDO DISTRICT”. The method of payment will be by cash deposited to, or Bank transfer to BSIF’s Bank Account only. Banking details can be requested refundable fee of BZ$150.00. Requests may be made by personal application or in writing to the ataddress the address below. applications Cash payment not be accepted at the FOR BSIFSUPPLY Office. AND below. Written must will be clearly marked: “TENDER DELIVERY OF WATER METERS, PIPES, AND ACCESSORIES FOR WATER SUPPLY

ASYSTEMS Virtual Pre-bid meetingCOROZAL with interested eligibleMAHOGANY bidders will HEIGHTS, be held at 2:00 p.m. IN CHUNOX, DISTRICT; BELIZE DISTRICT; GEORGEVILLE, CAYO AND SAN ANTONIO,Bidders TOLEDO on Friday, September 3, 2021. The DISTRICT; link is https://bit.ly/31ACuQU. can DISTRICT”. The meeting method ofto payment will be queries by cash deposited to,bidding or Bank transfer to BSIF’s participate in the address any about the document or the Bank Account only. Banking can be requestedare at the address below. Cash payment will contract scope. Firms that details purchase packages urged to attend. not be accepted at the BSIF Office.

Hard copies of Bids must submitted in bidders sealedwill envelopes, withp.m. the on name and A Virtual Pre-bid meeting withbe interested eligible be held at 2:00 Friday, address of the bidder, clearly marked “TENDER FOR SUPPLY AND DESeptember 3, 2021. Theand link be is https://bit.ly/31ACuQU. Bidders can participate in the meeting LIVERY WATER METERS, FOR WATER to address OF any queries about the bidding PIPES, documentAND or theACCESSORIES contract scope. Firms that purchase packages are urged to attend. SUPPLY SYSTEMS IN CHUNOX, COROZAL DISTRICT; MAHOGANY HEIGHTS, BELIZE DISTRICT; GEORGEVILLE, CAYO DISTRICT; AND Hard ANTONIO, copies of Bids TOLEDO must be submitted in sealed envelopes, name andtoaddress of the SAN DISTRICT” and mustwith be the delivered the first adbidder, and be clearly marked “TENDER FOR SUPPLY AND DELIVERY OF WATER dress below no later than September 23rd, 2021 at 10:00 a.m. (Belize Time). METERS, PIPES, AND ACCESSORIES FOR WATER SUPPLY SYSTEMS IN CHUNOX, Bids will be opened virtuallyMAHOGANY at 10:15 a.m., September 2021 atDISTRICT; the Social COROZAL DISTRICT; HEIGHTS, 23rd, BELIZE Investment Fund, CAYO 3rd Floor, #1902 Constitution Drive, Belmopan, Cayo District GEORGEVILLE, DISTRICT; AND SAN ANTONIO, TOLEDO DISTRICT” andin 10:00link a.m.is must be delivered to the first address below no laterwho than choose September 23rd, 2021 at The the presence of the bidders’ representatives to participate. (Belize Time). Bids will be Electronic opened virtually at 10:15 23rd, Late 2021 at the will Socialbe https://bit.ly/31ACuQU. bidding willa.m., notSeptember be permitted. bids Investment Fund, 3rd Floor, #1902 Constitution Drive, Belmopan, Cayo in the presence rejected. All bids must be accompanied with a “Bid-Securing District Declaration”. of the bidders' representatives who choose to participate. The link is https://bit.ly/31ACuQU. Electronic bidding will not be permitted. Late bids will be rejected. All bids must be accompanied BSIF the right to accept or reject any bid, and to annul the process and with areserves "Bid-Securing Declaration".

reject all bids, at any time prior to award of contract, without thereby incurring any liability bidder(s) or any obligation to inform BSIF reserves to thethe rightaffected to accept prospective or reject any bid, and to annul the process and reject all bids, the at any timeprospective prior to award of contract, without thereby any liability to the affected bidder(s) of the grounds for incurring BSIF action. BSIF will notaffected defray prospective bidder(s) by or any to inform the affected prospective any costs incurred anyobligation bidder in the preparation of bids. bidder(s) of the grounds for BSIF action. BSIF will not defray any costs incurred by any bidder in the preparation of bids.

1. Address for Inspection, Collection and Clarification of Bidding Documents, Bid Submission and Bid Opening 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

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 complete the construction of an incomplete single storey reinforced concrete structure measuring 164’-11” long by 42’-2” wide complete with a proposed four (4) classrooms, office spaces, two (2) male and female students’bathrooms, two (2) male and female teachers’lavatories, storage spaces, and an access ramp to accommodate users with disabilities.

4. 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 CDB’s Guidelines for Procurement (January 2006), and are open to all countries eligible for procurement under European Investment Bank funded projects which includes CDB member countries. 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 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019 and 2020 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 2017, 2018 and 2019 with activity of at least five (5) months in each year starting 1st January, 2017 (c) Bidders should have specific experience as a prime contractor, joint venture member, management contractor, or subcontractor, between 1st January 2010 and the bid submission deadline and should have less than or equal to four (4) contracts, each of a minimum value of BZ$200,000.00, but with a total value of all contracts equal or more than BZ$800,000.00 (d) demonstrate cash flow requirement: capacity to have a cash flow amount of BZ$150,000.00 of which not more than BZ$75,000.00 can be credit for materials (e) an average annual turnover of BZ$800,000.00 (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 23, 2021, 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$150.00. Requests may be made by personal application or in writing to the address below. Written applications must be clearly marked: “Completion of the Corazon Creek Technical High School Building, Corazon Creek Village, Toledo District, Belize”. The method of payment will be by cash deposited to, or Bank transfer to BSIF’s Bank Account only. Banking details can be requested at the address below. Cash payment will not be accepted at the BSIF Office. 8. Deadline for bids is at or before 10:00 a.m., September 22, 2021 at the address below. Bids will be opened virtually at 10:15 a.m., September 22, 2021 at the Social Investment Fund, 3rd Floor, #1902 Constitution Drive, Belmopan, Cayo District in the presence of the bidders’ representatives who choose to participate. The link is https://bit.ly/31ACuQU . Electronic bidding will not be permitted. Late bids will be rejected. All bids must be accompanied by a “Bid Security” of BZ$ 8,000.00 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 2:00 p.m. on Thursday, September 2nd, 2021. 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: colin.escalante@sifbelize.org therese.arzu@sifbelize.org


16

THE BELIZE TIMES

12 SEP

2021

BELIZE SOCIAL INVESTMENT FUND TENDER NOTICE

BELIZE SOCIAL INVESTMENT FUND TENDER NOTICE

Country: Belize Project: Caribbean Development Bank Grant No: GA 61/BZE Project ID: 1509/9/E3 Contract Number: E/B9-08/2021 National Competitive Bidding (NCB) Deadline: September 17, 2021

Country: Belize Project: Caribbean Development Bank Grant No: GA 61/BZE Project ID: 1509/9/WS2 Contract Number: W/B9-01/2021 National Competitive Bidding (NCB) Deadline: September 24, 2021

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 Completion of the San Isidro Government Primary School Building, San Isidro Village, Toledo District, Belize.

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, Installation of a Solar Grid-tie Electrical System for the Crique Jute Village Water Supply System, Toledo 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 complete the construction of an incomplete two (2) storey reinforced concrete structure measuring 164’-9” long by 35’-6” wide complete with a proposed eight (8) classrooms, office spaces, four (4) male and female students’ bathrooms, four (4) male and female teachers’ lavatories, storage spaces, and an access ramp to accommodate users with disabilities. Works shall include but not be limited to the following activities: construction of a reinforced concrete roof; completion of concrete surface rendering; construction of ceilings; installation of windows and doors; installation of electrical, plumbing, water supply and wastewater systems; application of surface finishes; and the undertaking of landscaping activities. Adherence to the contract’s environmental and safety protocols during construction is of paramount importance. 3. Final (Project Site) Destination as specified in BDS: San Isidro Village, Toledo District, Belize 4. 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 CDB’s Guidelines for Procurement (January 2006), and are open to all countries eligible for procurement under European Investment Bank funded projects which includes CDB member countries. 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 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019 and 2020 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 2017, 2018 and 2019 with activity of at least five (5) months in each year starting 1st January, 2017 (c) Bidders should have specific experience as a prime contractor, joint venture member, management contractor, or subcontractor, between 1st January 2010 and the bid submission deadline and should have less than or equal to four (4) contracts, each of a minimum value of BZ$200,000.00, but with a total value of all contracts equal or more than BZ$800,000.00 (d) demonstrate cash flow requirement: capacity to have a cash flow amount of BZ$200,000.00 of which not more than BZ$100,000.00 can be credit for materials (e) an average annual turnover of BZ$800,000.00 (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 23, 2021, 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$150.00. Requests may be made by personal application or in writing to the address below. Written applications must be clearly marked: “Completion of the San Isidro Government Primary School Building, San Isidro Village, Toledo District, Belize”. The method of payment will be by cash deposited to, or Bank transfer to BSIF’s Bank Account only. Banking details can be requested at the address below. Cash payment will not be accepted at the BSIF Office. 8. Deadline for bids is at or before 10:00 a.m., September 17, 2021 at the address below. Bids will be opened virtually at 10:15 a.m., September 17, 2021 at the Social Investment Fund, 3rd Floor, #1902 Constitution Drive, Belmopan, Cayo District in the presence of the bidders’ representatives who choose to participate. The link is https://bit.ly/31ACuQU . Electronic bidding will not be permitted. Late bids will be rejected. All bids must be accompanied by a “Bid Security” of BZ$ 8,000.00 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 Thursday, September 2nd, 2021. 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: Mrs. Therese Arzu Procurement Officer Social Investment Fund 3rd Floor, #1902 Constitution Drive Belmopan Cayo District Tel: 822-0239/822-0508 E-mail: therese.arzu@sifbelize.org cc: colin.escalante@sifbelize.org ruby.pascascio@sifbelize.org

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 contractor shall undertake the design, supply, and installation services for a solar grid-tie electrical system for the Crique Jute Village water supply system, Toledo District. The system is desired to be connected to the main electrical grid, along with being able to produce an estimated output of 100kWh per day to provide electricity for the water supply system, which has a total electrical demand load of approximately 22.3kVA. Important to note is that the system shall be equipped with zero grid export devices so as to not feed power back into the national electrical grid. The contractor shall be responsible for the following: • provision of all electrical designs for solar powered components; • provision of all civil designs for the installation of solar panels and ancillary components; • procurement and installation of all requisite plant/ equipment in accordance with the agreed-upon designs; • provision of all materials and the like to undertake the commissioning of the system; Reference shall be made to the proposed electrical design for the water supply system, which shall aid in development of the solar grid-tie electrical system, as detailed in the Drawings section of the bidding document. 3. Final (Project Site) Destination as specified in BDS: Crique Jute Village, Toledo District, Belize 4. 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 CDB’s Guidelines for Procurement (January 2006), and are open to all countries eligible for procurement under European Investment Bank funded projects which includes CDB member countries. 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 and 2020 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 2017, 2018 and 2019 with activity of at least three (3) months in each year starting 1st January, 2017 (c) Bidders should have specific experience as a prime contractor, joint venture member, management contractor, or subcontractor, between 1st January 2010 and the bid submission deadline and should have less than or equal to four (4) contracts, each of a minimum value of BZ$50,000.00, but with a total value of all contracts equal or more than BZ$200,000.00 (d) demonstrate cash flow requirement: capacity to have a cash flow amount of BZ$30,000.00 of which 50% must be in liquid cash from a financial institution, and the overall cash flow requirement for this contract and the bidders concurrent commitments (e) an average annual turnover of BZ$250,000.00 (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 23, 2021, 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$150.00. Requests may be made by personal application or in writing to the address below. Written applications must be clearly marked: “Tender for Design, Supply, and Installation of a Solar Grid-Tie Electrical System for the Crique Jute Village Water Supply System, Toledo District, Belize”. The method of payment will be by cash deposited to, or Bank transfer to BSIF’s Bank Account only. Banking details can be requested at the address below. Cash payment will not be accepted at the BSIF Office. 8. Deadline for bids is at or before 10:00 a.m., September 24, 2021 at the address below. Bids will be opened virtually at 10:15 a.m., September 24, 2021 at the Social Investment Fund, 3rd Floor, #1902 Constitution Drive, Belmopan, Cayo District in the presence of the bidders’ representatives who choose to participate. The link is https://bit.ly/31ACuQU . Electronic bidding will not be permitted. Late bids will be rejected. All bids must be accompanied by a “Bid Security” of BZ$ 1,500.00 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 Friday, September 3rd, 2021. 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: colin.escalante@sifbelize.org therese.arzu@sifbelize.org


12 SEP

2021

THE BELIZE TIMES

THINK ABOUT IT ANOTHER FATAL SHOOTING – WHO NEXT Two weeks from the 40th anniversary of our independence as a nation, a Belize Defense Force soldier shot an unarmed man almost at point blank range. The victim was also a soldier in the BDF who was in civilian clothes; Jessie Escobar, a husband a father. The initial reports were that the victim had aggressed the BDF, got into a scuffle and tried to take away the gun from the BDF, but the store where the incident occurred had video cameras and the whole ugly incident was caught, recorded and leaked out. It went viral Monday morning, 7th September. It was a horror movie. A disgusting, sickening set of irrefutable images showing reckless disregard for human life. Thank goodness it wasn’t the police who shot Jessie Escobar. If that had happened there probably would have been calls to remove the Police Commissioner and make drastic changes in the Ministry responsible for police. We know the Prime Minister and Deputy Prime Minister as well as the Minister of the police have had enough of Police abuse and lawless actions against Belizeans. The police had their day as recent as 14 July, 2021 when a police corporal shot a 14 year old boy in his back from a relatively close range. Anyone who points a gun at a person’s chest or upper back and pulls the trigger has committed murder. When citizens learnt the charge would be manslaughter, there was public outrage. Young people protested nighty in all the district towns and in Placencia where the killing occurred. The Prime Minister’s son joined protestors in Orange Walk. The Prime Minister’s wife as Special Envoy for families and youth condemned the killing as did dozens of community groups and NGO’s. The council of churches kept silent as did the Chamber of Commerce. Justice for little Laddie Gillett became the cry, The Police scrambled to appease the mounting anger from Belizeans. They promised police reform. Community policing would be strengthened. They would invite the Human Rights Organization to assist with Police Training. Special training for police to learn how to deescalate situations as opposed to their aggressive, violent approaches. There would be a committee to revise the police Use of Force policy. None of these things happened or will happen. The police cannot change themselves. As the attorney and Vice President of the Association of Defense Attorneys, Michelle Trapp has researched, the police has a long and ignoble record of beatings and fatally shooting citizens-with impunity in this country. Nothing can compare to the last government’s horrible record of a squad gone completely rogue. For ten years, they unleashed a form of state sponsored terrorism. Fully militarized, they broke every rule in the law books and got away with it. The GSU, rebranded G13 are still running around the country, a little subdued but very much alive. What the hell are soldiers doing in our village and on our streets. And what the hell are police doing in military uniforms with big guns terrorizing our neighborhoods. And when the hell will we have truly, affective Community policing, a police complaints citizens oversight committee and major police reform. THE POLICE LIED TO COVER UP THE CRIME The police who was present and in charge of unprofessional BDF soldiers who shot Jessie Escobar on the night of 5th September in Santa Familia Village was not a police. He was a tourism police who was made into a full time police without getting the proper training. He gave a statement about the shooting. His statement which was leaked to the media, was full of lies. He claimed Jessie Escobar reached out and grabbed the gun which BDF Valencia had and that is when the BDF shot Jessie. The shop video shows no such situation. It was a blatant lie. It goes to show the quality and character of some of our police officers. He should face charges for lying and for attempting to cover -up crime. In the rage which followed the shooting death of Jessie Escobar, the home of the police was burned to the ground. Villagers of Santa Familia also blocked the entrance to their village with tires and tree branches and set these ablaze, shouting justice for Jessie, justice for Jessie. While Jessie Escobar laid dying or dead on the ground the soldiers, the soldier who shot him was heard shouting menacingly to two or three other young men at the shop-“next boxer, next boxer” persistently, who next, who want step forward and get shot. None of them bothered to check if Jessie was alive, so they could rush him to hospital. OUR MEDIA AND SUNDAY KILLING The totally reckless fatal shooting of Jessie Escobar Sunday night by a soldier of the BDF with the abetment of another soldier and a police officer in Santa Familia Village, raised other concerning issues. One such is our media. All the local television reported on the killing and showed the video footage of exactly how it happened. This was in the Monday night 6:00 pm news. But, for the Monday morning shows, Love FM ignored this most sensational and disgusting killing. Channel 5 likewise. Channel 7 young people program sun up tackled the issue briefly. We not sure about plus which is concerned with righteousness. Krem TV and radio took up their whole morning show with the issue which deserves maximum exposure. Mose did a great job in keeping the public on the

17

points of relevance. If Belize is to become a better place our media has to have a clear sense of what is going wrong and to spare debate on the issues. The various hosts of the talk shows do have a responsibility to see that issues are properly ventilated. It is the least that they can do. Our country is facing very serious challenges. After 13 years of the worse government, in which many media houses failed to inform and educate citizens; we cannot have a media which looks the other way when wrongs are being committed. It’s not enough to run a few minutes in the news segment. THE WAR HAS STARTED We are in the beginning of a war. Covid Delta has launched its attack against Belizeans, we must counteract. We are taking the Delta strain too lightly. Prevention is better than cure. Eternal vigilance is the price of our health and our lives. Get vaccinated. Vaccines are not a cure. They give our immune system ammunition to fight off an infection. If we become infected while vaccinated our immune system is much stronger in resisting and fighting back. We must fight back. We are in a war and we can win. If the Taliban can defeat America, we can defeat a virus. Get vaccinated, strengthen your immune system. Eat healthy foods. The virus can’t bring you down if you are healthy and your system is made stronger with vaccination. Keep on your mask. Keep your distance, sanitize your hands regularly. If you touch door knobs and areas which others is touching sanitize your hands right away. We are in a war. People are being infected. Some have been losing their lives. We can win this battle. Let’s do it. NAME THAT BUILDING WILL AND SHARPER Finishing touches are being put in place for the most expensive government building ever. This massive waste, cost the country twenty seven million dollars. It appears to be another of those crony contracts. Taiwan money was not deposited into the government account. The money went straight to the contractor. Julius Espat, a trained architect and cost expert, on becoming a Minister of Government, said a review has indicated the building could not be more than seventeen or eighteen million dollars. This is the building across from Chetumal Bridge. Write across the street there are people living in slums and wretched conditions. Not a dollar was spent to uplift their conditions. With all that said, the building should be named after Will and Sharper. These two were extraordinary brave leaders in early Belize. During slavery they decided to rebel against their slave master and the whole evil system of slavery. They organized a group of slaves in 1820. Theses rebels forced the slave master to declare martial law and lock down the settlement for one month. These two, Will and Sharper, knew that if they were caught they would suffer terrible torture and death. They rebelled anyway. These are freedom fighters. They deserve maximum respect. We call on government to name the new finance building after two known heroes who preferred to die on their feet rather than live on their knees. SHYNE HAD DIPLOMATIC PASSPORT Some eighteen practicing lawyers formed themselves into an organization called the Association of Defence Attorneys since February of last year. They are a network of lawyers who exchange their views on proposed laws, existing ones which need amending, relevant court cases in Belize and abroad and such matters. We are informed that they had a productive meeting with Minister of Home Affairs who is responsible for the police and prison. Several proposals for improvements were discussed and agreed on at the meeting. The Association plans to meet with Chief Magistrate and, at a later date, depending on Covid, they wish to discuss legal issues with the Chief Justice. We plan to obtain the names of the Executive and the district representatives for our readers. FABER ORDERED TO SIT DOWN Last Friday‘s meeting of the House of Representatives wasn’t a good day for Patrick Faber, leader of the UDP party. He got into a quarrel with the Speaker of the House, Mrs. Valarie Woods. Seems Patrick is always getting into a tussle with the female gender. We wonder why. Patrick wanted to quarrel because he wished to violate section 13 of the House Rules which at the adjournment a member can rise “a matter.” Patrick wanted to raise more than one matter and to do that would be to violate the Rules. Here is a politician who has been in the House for more than 15 years and still doesn’t know the Rules. As Faber continued to speak while the speaker was speaking and basically quarrelling with himself, he left the speaker with no other choice than to order him to take his seat and remain seated. This is similar to a teacher ordering a pupil to go sit in a corner and stop interrupting the class.


18

THE BELIZE TIMES

12 SEP

2021 LIQUOR LICENSE NOTICE

CAREER OPPORTUNITY

Belize Electricity Limited (BEL) is the primary distributor and the only licensed public provider of electricity in Belize. Our mission is to deliver safe reliable and sustainable energy solutions to enhance the quality of life and the productivity of enterprise and to support national development. We are looking for a highly motivated, goal oriented, responsible and committed person to join our Company in the role of Auditor II in the Internal Audit Department in Belize City.

Duties: • Plan and execute internal audit programs with a strong focus on controls of the IT/OT components of the Company. • Write and submit audit reports detailing the execution of audit programs assigned, and all related findings. • Conduct research in the areas of: Audit, Information Technology, Operation Technology, Fraud, Internal Controls, Accounting, Operational Efficiency, and any other area relevant to audit activities of the Company. Research activities may include, but are not limited to, reading of printed materials, downloading internet-based material, online videos, webinars, or visiting sites where the information is available. • In the course of conducting audit programs, gather financial, operational, internal control, and data processing information that will provide a basis for assessing departments, activities, systems, or processes. • Liaise with external auditors on matters relating to audits carried out by the Company. Education and Experience: • Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting or Professional Accounting/Auditing qualification such as Certified Public Accountant, Chartered Accountant, or Certified Internal Auditor • Certificate and/or experience in IT with experience in conducting IT Audits or • Bachelor’s Degree in IT related field with experience in conducting IT Audits • Certificate/experience in Accounting or Auditing Required Skills and Abilities: • Experience with computerized accounting systems • Intermediate knowledge of SQL (structured query language) • Working knowledge of Audit tools, and familiarity with relational database systems • Strong grasp of IT concepts and controls • Ability to do diagnostic information gathering • Commitment to keep abreast of developments in IT Audits and IT Risk Management • Excellent analytical, organizational and time management skills • Results driven with excellent verbal and written communication skills • People and service oriented with excellent collaborative skills • Possess excellent leadership, interpersonal and coaching skills • Ability to maintain confidentiality and professionalism Salary: in accordance with Company Salary Structure. Kindly submit application letter along with resume, copy of degrees and certificates and two recent professional letters of recommendation to: Manager, Talent Acquisition & Development Email: career.opportunity@bel.com.bz In the email subject, please indicate the position: Auditor II Only electronic applications are being accepted at this time. For more information or queries, call 227-0954 Ext. 1404 or 1416 Deadline: Friday, September 17, 2021

Notice is hereby given that Xiao Peng Zhu is applying for a Shop Liquor License to be operated at “828 Super Center” located at #2126 Chetumal Street, Belize City, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

LIQUOR LICENSE NOTICE Notice is hereby given that Yongfa He/Xiang Hui He are applying for a Shop Liquor License to be operated at “Fa Shop” located at Mls. 19 Philip Goldson Highway, Belize City, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

LIQUOR LICENSE NOTICE Notice is hereby given that Yongfa He/Xiang Hui He are applying for a Malt & Cider Liquor License to be operated at “Fa Shop” located at Mls. 19 Philip Goldson Highway, Belize City, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

LIQUOR LICENSE NOTICE Notice is hereby given that Jiaxi Yu is applying for a Publican Special Liquor License to be operated at “Wong Gok Restaurant” located at # 11 6th Street, King’s Park, Belize City, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

LIQUOR LICENSE NOTICE

Notice is hereby given that Kevin Ghau is applying for a Beer Liquor License to be operated at “Golden Dragon Fast Food” located at # 1 New Road, Belize City, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

LIQUOR LICENSE NOTICE Notice is hereby given that Xin Chan Su/You Wei Tang are applying for a Shop Liquor License to be operated at “New Glory Shop” located at # 19 New Road, Belize City, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.


12 SEP

2021

THE BELIZE TIMES

19

LIQUOR LICENSE NOTICE Notice is hereby given that Huizhi Huang/Shaoqun Zhou are applying for a Shop Liquor License to be operated at “William Supermarket 2” located at # 26 C.A. Blvd., Belize City, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

LIQUOR LICENSE NOTICE Notice is hereby given that Yao Qiang Tang is applying for a Shop Liquor License to be operated at “New Hope” located at # 35 Baymen Avenue, Belize City, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

LIQUOR LICENSE NOTICE Notice is hereby given that Takayuki Yanai is applying for a Restaurant Liquor License to be operated at “Taka Kitchen” located at # 2/4 Hutson Street, Belize City, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

LIQUOR LICENSE NOTICE Notice is hereby given that Yue Ling Huang Wong is applying for a Shop Liquor License to be operated at “Highway Store” located at # 271 Philip Goldson Highway, Belize City, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

LIQUOR LICENSE NOTICE

Notice is hereby given that Jack Chiu is applying for a Malt & Cider Liquor License to be operated at “Milky Way Cafe” located at # 1643 Coney Drive, Belize City, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

LIQUOR LICENSE NOTICE Notice is hereby given that Meiling Luo is applying for a Convenience Store Liquor License to be operated at “Zhong Wang Shop” located at # 15 Hopkins Street, Belize City, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

CAREER OPPORTUNITY

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

We are looking for a highly motivated, goal oriented, responsible and committed person to join our Company in the role of Telecommunications Services Technician III - Engineering in the Telecommunications Services Department under the Energy Supply & Transmission Division in Belize City. Duties: • Assist with the management of the hardware, software, and operating system platform, which supports the Company’s SCADA System and Services and maintaining the SCADA Master station(s) configuration, resources and peripherals. • Troubleshoot and rectify failures in the various SCADA systems, telecommunication systems and field devices. • Assist with the implementation of strategies, upgrades and new installations and carry out system backups, documentation and routine maintenance plans of the SCADA infrastructure. • Assist with designing, implementing and managing secure IT/OT telecommunications network topologies and communication mediums and managing and supporting the Company’s telephony, LAN/WAN VHF, AVL and security camera infrastructure. • Assist with the development and deployment of methodologies for testing and monitoring telecommunications link performance. • Perform general duties that may be assigned. Education and Experience: • Bachelor's Degree or technical diploma in Telecommunications Engineering - Electrical Engineering and Computer Science • Five years’ equivalent work experience in information and telecommunication systems • Certifications in telecommunications, SCADA, and networking fundamentals will be an advantage Required Skills and Abilities: • Working knowledge of local communications systems - frequencies and spectrums, technologies, equipment, topologies, and site locations, and the Telecommunications Act • Hands-on experience working with LANs, WANs, and WLANs and installing and communications mediums: Fiber, Ethernet, Coax, VHF, PLC, UHF, etc. and working knowledge of current telecommunication and networking protocols and standards • Hands-on experience troubleshooting hardware including, but not limited to, PCs, routers, bridges, switches, hubs, modems, network interface cards, two-way handheld and base radios, multiplexers, and receivers • Basic understanding of mathematics, electrical, and mechanical concepts • Strong interpersonal, written, and oral communication skills • Able to prepare quality professional technical and non-technical reports, diagrams and documentation • Ability to conduct research into existing and emerging technologies and solutions and make sound recommendations as required • Ability to prioritize, think critically, and execute tasks in a high-intensity work environment • Highly self-motivated with on-going interest in keeping up to date with changes in emerging technology • Proficient in the use of PC operating systems: Windows XP or higher, Unix, Microsoft Office applications and AutoCAD • Keen attention to detail and proven analytical and problem-solving abilities • Strong orientation in Customer Service with experience working in a team-oriented and collaborative environment Salary: in accordance with Company Salary Structure. Kindly submit application letter along with resume, copy of degrees and certificates and three (3) recent professional letters of recommendation to: Manager, Talent Acquisition & Development Email: career.opportunity@bel.com.bz In the email subject, please indicate the position: Telecommunications Services Technician III - Engineering Only electronic applications are being accepted at this time. For more information or queries, call 227-0954 Ext. 1415 or 1416 Deadline: Friday, September 17, 2021


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THE BELIZE TIMES

12 SEP

2021

FOR SALE BY ORDER OF THE MORTGAGEE The Development Finance Corporation of Bliss Parade Belmopan, hereby gives notice of its intention to exercise its power of sale as mortgagee under Deed of Mortgages or Charges between those hereinafter named and the said Corporation which mortgages are recorded at the Land Titles Unit, or the Lands Registry and that the said Development Finance Corporation will, at the expiration of two (2) months from the date of the first publication of this notice, sell the properties described in the Schedule hereto. All offers to purchase the said property must be made in writing to the said Corporation at its Headquarters Office or District Offices.

SCHEDULE Parcel No. 1813, Block No. 4, Ann Gabourel Registration Section containing 555.56 Square Yards, held under a Land Certificate being the freehold interest of CHRISTINE SHERRY HAWKINS. All that piece or parcel of land being Lot No. 348 containing 956.733 Square Meters situate in the Maxboro Subdivision, Sandhill Village, Belize District as shown on Entry No. 5146 Register 12 held under a Minister’s Fiat Lease being the leasehold interest of SHERLEE FRAZER. Parcel No. 1660, Block No. 45, Port/Loyolaville Registration Section containing 325.953 Square Meters situate on Delarai Sanchez Street, Belize City, Belize held under a Land Certificate being the freehold interest of MARISOL LESLIE surety for GLENN FRANCIS LESLIE and MARISOL LESLIE.

DATED THIS 1ST DAY OF SEPTEMBER, 2021

PUBLIC NOTICE Lodgement of Addendum to EIA Report and Public Consultation for Cargo Expansion and Construction of Cruise Terminal & Cruise Tourism Village Project, Port of Belize, Belize City The General Public is hereby advised that an Addendum to the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) report for the proposed bulk handling and cruise tourism development project located on Caesar Ridge Road, Port Loyola, Belize City, Belize District was submitted by Waterloo Investment Holdings Ltd. (Port of Belize Ltd) to the Department of the Environment (DOE). The Addendum was prepared by Piedroba Consulting Group, LLC, and Nextera Environmental and Engineering Consultants with local and international scientific support. The Addendum and the EIA report will be reviewed by the National Environmental Appraisal Committee (Committee), before a final decision is taken. The General Public is hereby informed that the Addendum and the EIA report was made available for review, free of charge from July 23, 2021, and will extend to September 29, 2021, from Mondays to Fridays during normal working hours (9:00 am to 5:00 pm) at: Port Loyola Library, National Library Service, Leo Bradley Library, Turton Library Center, all in Belize City and at the office of the DOE in Belmopan. The EIA report and addendum are also available on the DOE's website at https://doe.gov.bz/environmentalclearance/. Bearing in mind the realities related to the COVID-19 Pandemic, and while hard copies of the EIA report and amendment are available at the locations mentioned above, the DOE recommends highly that this EIA report and amendment be reviewed using the online options. Please practice social distancing when viewing hard copies of the report and follow the recommendations of the Ministry of Health. The general public and interested persons or groups are invited to submit comments, questions, or queries to the DOE via email to eiaunit@environment.gov.bz. by September 29th, 2021. Kindly be informed that a virtual 2nd public consultation session for the EIA report and the Addendum will be held on September 23rd, commencing at 4:00 pm sharp via the Government of Belize Press Office Facebook Page and via Zoom. The general public is invited to participate in this virtual consultation to make comments, ask questions, seek clarification, express concerns or issues, or to make a representation to the DOE in relation to the possible effects of the proposed project activity on the environment. Kindly follow the DOE’s social media platforms to see updates.


12 SEP

21

THE BELIZE TIMES

2021

Government of Belize Belize Social Investment Fund III Loan (BSIF III) Supply and Delivery of Information Technology (IT) Equipment for the Maria Crawford Health Center, Crooked Tree Village, Belize District INVITATION TO BID The Government of Belize (GOB) has received financing from the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) in an amount equivalent to USD10.0mm towards the cost of the Belize Social Investment Fund III Loan Project (BSIF III) and intends to apply a part of the funds to cover eligible payments under the Agreement. The GOB has appointed the Belize Social Investment Fund (BSIF) as the Implementing Agency (IA) for the Project, and intends to apply a portion of the proceeds to eligible payments under a contract for which this invitation is issued. Payments by CDB will be made only at the request of GOB and upon approval by CDB, and will be subject in all respects to the terms and conditions of the Financing Agreement. The Financing Agreement prohibits withdrawal from the financing account for the purpose of any payment to persons or entities, or for any import of goods, if such payment or import, to the knowledge of CDB, is prohibited by a decision of the United Nations Security Council taken under Chapter VII of the Charter of the United Nations. No party other than GOB shall derive any rights from the Financing Agreement or have any claim to the proceeds of the Financing. The Belize Social Investment Fund (BSIF), the IA, now invites sealed bids from eligible and qualified Bidders for the Supply and Delivery of Information Technology (IT) Equipment for the Maria Crawford Health Center, Crooked Tree Village, Belize District All Countries are eligible. Bidders will be required to submit full qualification information with their bids establishing their qualification to perform the contract if the bid is accepted. Tender and qualification information are to be submitted in the English Language on the prescribed forms inserted in the Bid Documents. Submissions that do not provide the information required or that do not demonstrate the prospective contractor’s ability to perform satisfactorily, will not qualify and will not be considered for further evaluation. Bid documents will be available for inspection at the address below, from Monday, September 6, 2021, on week days between 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. A complete set of Bidding Documents (hard-copy or electronic version) can be purchased by interested bidders 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: “Tender for Supply and Delivery of Information Technology (IT) Equipment for the Maria Crawford Health Center, Crooked Tree Village, Belize District”. 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. A Virtual Pre-Bid Meeting with bidders will be held at 2:00 p.m. (Belize Time) on Wednesday,

NOTICE UNDER SECTION 4(2) OF THE FISCAL INCENTIVES ACT, CHAPTER 54 OF THE LAWS OF BELIZE, REVISED EDITION 1980-1990-2000-2003-2005-2011 It is hereby notified for general information that the principals of Venezia del Caribe Limited, have submitted an application for an Approved Enterprise Order under the Fiscal Incentives Act, Chapter 54 of the Laws of Belize, Revised Edition 1980-1990-2000-20032005-2011, and the Minister of Investment proposes to make the Order hereinafter set out. Any person who objects to the making of such an Order is hereby invited to give notice in writing of his/her objections and of the grounds on which he/she relies in support thereof to the Executive Director, Belize Trade and Investment Development Service, on or before September 24th, 2021.

FISCAL INCENTIVES BELIZE: STATUTORY INSTRUMENT No. of 2021 ORDER made by the Minister of Investment in exercise of the powers conferred upon him by Section 4 of the Fiscal Incentives Act, Chapter 54 of the Laws of Belize, Revised Edition 1980-1990-2000, and all other powers thereunto him enabling. (Gazetted ... 2021) 1.

This Order may be cited as the APPROVED ENTERPRISE (VENEZIA DEL CARIBE LIMITED) ORDER 2021.

2.

It is hereby declared that the principals of Venezia Del Caribe Limited, located at mile 3.5 on the northern part of Ambergris Caye, shall develop a luxurious resort branded under the Windham Grand Resort featuring ninety-seven (97) units, restaurants, “aquatecture” pool and supporting amenities. Venezia Del Caribe Limited (hereinafter called ‘the Company’) shall be an approved enterprise under the Fiscal Incentives Act.

3. (a)

In addition to the conditions imposed by the Act, the Company shall: not practice whatsoever any discrimination on grounds of ethnic, religious or political identity; observe all safety, social security, health and labour regulations; pay fair wages to the workers and observe fair labour practices; consult with the Belize Labour Exchange before employment of workers of other nationalities; employ only such workers of other nationalities as are in possession of valid work permits; make provision for the training of Belizeans in all aspects of the operation and conduct of the Company including management; submit a plan for approval by the Ministry of Labour for such training in all the required skills; satisfy the Ministry of Natural Resources and the Department of the Environment that all necessary measures are taken to control any pollution to the environment that may result from the operation of the company; satisfy the Ministry responsible for Archaeology that all measures are taken to prevent the destruction of any ancient monument or antiquity located within the Company’s area of operation; maintain separate books of accounts and records in respect of the Company; maintain such books of accounts and records in a manner which conforms with generally accepted accounting principles in Belize and appropriate to the business in which the Company operates; conduct the business in a manner acceptable to the Belize Trade and Investment Development Service; continuously employ at least one hundred and fifty-one (151) persons by August 8th, 2026; Upon obtaining the written approval of the Executive Director, Belize Trade and Investment Development Service, the Company shall be permitted to import such quantity of such items free of customs duty and revenue replacement duty as shall have been proved unavailable from suitable local products or raw materials, and necessary for the establishment/expansion and operation of the Company, and for the sole use thereof, but limited to: · Building Materials & Supplies

(b) (c) (d) (e) (f) (g) (h)

(i) (j) 4.

September 22, 2021. The link is https://bit.ly/31ACuQU. Bidders can participate in the meeting to address any queries about the bidding document or the contract scope. Persons that purchase packages are urged to attend. Hard copies of Bids must be submitted in sealed envelopes, with the name and address of the bidder, and be clearly marked “Tender for Supply and Delivery of Information Technology (IT) Equipment for the Maria Crawford Health Center, Crooked Tree Village, Belize District” and must be delivered to the address below no later than October 4, 2021 at 10:00 a.m. (Belize Time). Bids will be opened virtually at 10:15 a.m., October 4, 2021 at the Social Investment Fund, 3rd Floor, #1902 Constitution Drive, Belmopan, Cayo District in the presence of the bidders' representatives who choose to participate. The link is https://bit. ly/31ACuQU. Electronic bidding will not be permitted. Late bids will be rejected. All bids must be accompanied with a "Bid-Securing Declaration". BSIF reserves the right to accept or reject any bid, and to annul the process and reject all bids, at any time prior to award of contract, without thereby incurring any liability to the affected prospective bidder(s) or any obligation to inform the affected prospective bidder(s) of the grounds for BSIF action. BSIF will not defray any costs incurred by any bidder in the preparation of bids. Address for Inspection, Collection and Clarification of Bidding Documents, Bid Submission and Bid Opening 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

The proposed Order reads as follows:

·

Fixtures & Fittings

·

Office Equipment & Supplies

·

Utility and Transport Vehicle

·

Marine Craft

5. The date of production shall be August 9, 2021. . 6. The date of commencement and the date of termination of the duty exemption period shall be August 9th, 2021 and August 8th, 2026 respectively. 7.

The Company shall enjoy no tax holidays.

8.

This Approved Enterprise Order may be revoked if any condition to which it is subject to is broken by the Company. MADE by the Minister responsible for Investment this 2021.

day of September,

______________________________ Hon. John Briceno Minister of Finance, Economic Development and Investment


22

12 SEP

THE BELIZE TIMES

2021

NOTICE

Notice is hereby given AMCA CORPORATION commenced dissolution on 16th August, 2021; and Belizean Liquidators Services Inc. whose registered office is at 50 Shirley Street, P.O. Box CB-13917 Nassau, Bahamas, is the Liquidator of the company. Notice is hereby given BLACKWALL INVESTMENTS INC. and TABIL INTERNATIONAL LIMITED both commenced dissolution on 24th August, 2021; and International Liquidator Services Ltd. whose registered office is at Withfield Tower, 3rd Floor, 4792 Coney Drive, Belize City, Belize, is the Liquidator of the companies. Notice is hereby given CRYNC ALLIANCE INC. commenced dissolution on 26th August, 2021; and Belizean Liquidators Services Inc. whose registered office is at 50 Shirley Street, P.O. Box CB-13917 Nassau, Bahamas, is the Liquidator of the company. Morgan & Morgan Trust Corporation Belize Limited

NOTICE Notice is hereby given BELINDA FINANCIAL CORP. commenced dissolution on 5th August, 2021; and Belizean Liquidators Services Inc. whose registered office is at 50 Shirley Street, P.O. Box CB-13917 Nassau, Bahamas, is the Liquidator of the company. Notice is hereby given ASPEN PARTNERS INC. and NEMAN PROPERTY S.A. commenced dissolution on 6th August, 2021; and Belizean Liquidators Services Inc. whose registered office is at 50 Shirley Street, P.O. Box CB-13917 Nassau, Bahamas, is the Liquidator of the company. Notice is hereby given JOLINA MARKETING LTD. commenced dissolution on 6th August, 2021; and International Liquidator Services Ltd. whose registered office is at Withfield Tower, 3rd Floor, 4792 Coney Drive, Belize City, Belize, is the Liquidator of the company. Morgan & Morgan Trust Corporation Belize Limited

NOTICE

NOTICE

NOTICE

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:

GenPro Consulting (Belize) Limited Registered Agent

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:

Sucre & Sucre (Belize) Ltd. Registered Agent


12 SEP

23

THE BELIZE TIMES

2021

NOTICE Notice is hereby given to all interested parties that the company AMARILIS BUSINESS CORP. (“the Company”) incorporated under the IBC Act of Belize commenced dissolution on the 17th day of August, 2021; and Miriam Moreno Rojas of San Francisco, Calle 56-A Paitilla, Edificio Grupo Los Pueblos planta baja, Panama, Republic of Panama is the Liquidator of the Company, and any claims against the company should be forwarded to the Liquidator within 30 days from commencement. Icaza Belize Trust Corporation Limited Registered Agent

NOTICE Notice is hereby given to all interested parties that the company CHARGEPAL LIMITED (“the Company”) incorporated under the IBC Act of Belize commenced dissolution on the 31st day of August, 2021; and Ms. Valentina Escuder domiciled at 18 de julio 567 Las Piedras, Canelones, Uruguay is the Liquidator of the Company, and any claims against the company should be forwarded to the Liquidator within 30 days from commencement. GCC Corporate Consultants Group 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: Revuln Ventures Limited – 18th August, 2021 Belize Corporate Services Limited Registered Agent

NOTICE Notice is hereby given to all interested parties that the following companies (“the Companies”) incorporated under the IBC Act of Belize commenced dissolution as follows:

Any claims against the company should be forwarded to the Liquidator within 30 days from commencement. Belize Corporate Services 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: COLIBRI TRADING COMPANY S.A. – 14th August, 2021 Icaza Belize Trust Corporation Limited Registered Agent

NOTICE Don Diego Inc. #164,439 (“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 Don Diego Inc.: a) is in dissolution b) commenced dissolution on the 1st day of September, 2021; and c) Elina Maria Tejerina whose address is Av. Santa Fe 2271, Capital Fed eral, Argentina is the Liquidator of the Company CILTrust International Limited Registered Agent

NOTICE Hyde Park Ventures Corp. #165,752 (“the Company”)

NOTICE

Sibling Corp. #165,153 (“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 Hyde Park Ventures Corp.:

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 Sibling Corp.:

a) is in dissolution b) commenced dissolution on the 1st day of September, 2021; and c) Carlos Alfredo Pagani whose address is STA. MARIA DE LAS CONCHAS 3901, TIGRE (CP1648), ARGENTINA is the Liquidator of the Company CILTrust International Limited Registered Agent

a) is in dissolution b) commenced dissolution on the 2nd day of September, 2021; and c) Leandro Martin Crea Eguilor whose address is Espana NO. 1054, DPTO 3, GRAL ROCA, Rio Negro, Argentina is the Liquidator of the Company CILTrust International Limited Registered Agent


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THE BELIZE TIMES

12 SEP

2021


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