Belize Times August 5, 2018- Belmopan City Council Can't Meet Salaries

5 AUG

SCAN HERE

2018

The Belize Times

Established 1957

5 AUGUST 2018 | ISSUE NO: 5108

The Truth Shall Make You Free

www.belizetimes.bz | $1.00

BOOTS AT IT AGAIN? Belize City, Thursday August 2, 2018 Once again information is being uncovered that is leading to allegations against Port Loyola Representative, Anthony “Boots” Martinez, as it relates to public assets being obtained for his personal and private use.

Those assets include a 2012 John Deer 320D skid steer valued at $24,000.00, a 1992 D4C Caterpillar valued at $31,500.00 and a 2014 Big Tex gooseneck trailer valued at $10,000.

These vehicles were donated to the Sanitation Department of the Belize City Council in December 2014 by the Government of Belize (GoB).

This is after the council indicated that in January 2015 it would hire employees of the Belize Maintenance Limited (BML) who would have otherwise been unemployed after the sanitation contract between the council and BML expired.

Receipts obtained by Belize Times dated December 5, 2014 revealed that the vehicles in question and other equipment valued at almost a million dollars were

purchased by GoB from Excel Oilfield Equipment in Houston Texas through a company linked to Marlon Samuels.

Samuels is a brother to defeated Belize City Councillor, Dean Samuels, who was set to succeed “Boots” in the Port Loyola constituency.

Emails leaked to Belize Times revealed that then councillor with responsibility for sanitation, Dion Leslie, forwarded those receipts to the council’s Director of Finance, Marilyn Ordonez.

On August 18, 2015, on the heels of the 2015 municipal elections, Ordonez wrote, Financial Secretary, Joseph Waight, asking if those vehicles and equipment, “were indeed gifted to the council.”

She then went on to ask for a confirmation for external auditors.

However, there was no response from Fin Sec Waight.

And so again on September 1, 2015 she wrote him asking for an urgent response.

In that email she expressed, “I would also want to bring to your

Pg. 2

SWINE FLU

BACK IN BELIZE HOSPITALS: NO PLAN, NO TREATMENT AND NO TAMIFLU

SHUGA CITY’S FIESTA-RAMA, HUGE!

Pg. 2

centerfold

Belmopan City Council Can’t Meet Salaries

BELIZE CONTACT NABBED! …Hard blow to the Sinaloa Cartel!

Pg. 2

Dioney Rolando MC, alias ‘El Nene

Pg. 2

FOR REGISTRATION INFORMATION... CALL TOLL FREE 0-800-7874636

2 02

5 AUG

THE BELIZE TIMES

BOOTS AT IT AGAIN?

Continued from page 1 attention that the Bulldozer and Bobcat that were purchased for the Council have been taken by Minister Booths Martinez who said they are his.”

She added, “Please advise him otherwise as Government bought those and not for his personal use.

The PM approved the list of items including the Bobcat for use by Sanitation and to date the City Council have not received that equipment.”

Again, there was no response from Financial Secretary Joe Waight.

On April 30, 2018 Ordonez wrote him again asking for confirmation but to date he has not responded.

Further correspondence show that Ordonez then contacted the Ministry of Local Government for assistance but was told that she should speak to the Minister and his Chief Executive Officer.

Belize Times tried to reach Fin Sec Waight for comment but his phone went to voicemail.

We note that this is not the first time “Boots” has been suspected of being involved in what could be seen as corrupt acts. Earlier this year, his former employee, Kirk Lamb, accused him of being involved in an alleged housing scam.

Allegations which “Boots” denied.

BELIZE CONTACT NABBED! Belize City: Wednesday August 1st 2018 A week ago today, five Operators of the Sinaloa Cartel including a Belizean logistics point man were arrested by Mexican police at the entrance lane to the old Belize/ Mexico International Border Bridge.

Mexican police say the incident took place last Wednesday night around 11:00 pm just a few hundred yards away from Belizean territory. It all started a few miles down on Avenida Alvaro Obregon on a stretch parallel to the Chetumal International Airport where police had set up a routine police check point.

Police manning the check point say everything seem routinely normal until they noticed a blue Nissan pickup truck coming towards them at an accelerated speed knocking down the sign and evading police. Three police stationed there at the time activated a high speed chase behind the Nissan pickup that was moving towards the direction towards Santa Elena, the old international border bridge area where the getaway Nissan accessed the exit lane towards the bridge which would have taken the culprits over to the Belize side near the Casinos but, the Mexican Customs had already established a barricade on the bridge.

Mexican Authorities say inside the vehicle there were five men along with two military grade long arms and one short firearm and a small quantity of drugs. They also noted that the vehicle was armoured.

The men taken into custody were identified as Dioney Rolan-

Belmopan City Council Can’t Meet Salaries

of the City Hall building to send a clear message to the Mayor and council. The Union responded last week by sending a letter to the Council requesting the reason why employees were not paid. A letter was sent back to the Union signed by the City

on page 31 ExchangeContinued rate (USD): $ 0.50 of One Belize Dollar

do MC, alias ‘El Nene’ identified as a Belizean national. According to investigations, “El Nene’ is considered as a logistics enforcer of confidence to “Zurizaday Villasenor Mendez, king pin operator of the Sinaloa Cartel in the southern region of Mexico.

Other enforcers in the vehicle accompanying “El Nene” were identified as Manuel ‘MP’ and Abel ‘A’ of Chetumal, Oscar Joel ‘FD’ of Tamaulipas and Ulises ‘R’ from Mexico City.

Since February of this year, we have had at least six drug plane landings mostly in the northern Orange Walk, and Corozal. Indications are that the twin engine beech aircraft loaded with cocaine landed on an isolated stretch near Libertad village. By the time police arrived on the scene, the cargo, believed to be cocaine, had already been removed and the plane set on fire.

In March another drug plane crashed landed in the area of Cuatro Leguas area of Blue Creek, this aircraft originated in Venezuela and again, the payload was already taken north. With regards to this investigation, startling details leaked alleged that there was a cover-up at the highest ranks of the Police Department. Sources suggested that senior officers of Special Branch in charge of the investigation were transferred to other posts with immediate effect.

In April another twin engine Hawker Suddeley HS 125 drug plane landed on the San Estevan-Progresso Road loaded with drugs but by the time authorities arrived the load was already being in transit through the porous border into Mexico.

Administrator saying the workers would be paid by today. However, at midday today, they had still not been paid. We spoke to Ralston Frazer, the City Administrator of Belmopan, who confirmed that the email was received and responded to by the Council.

Mexican Police having identified Dioney Rolando MC, alias ‘El Nene’ as a Belizean, as the right hand and logistics enforcer for Zurizaday Villasenor Mendez, chief operator for the Sinaloa Cartel in the southern area of Mexico, it is obvious that Belize location is logistically strategic for the Cartel, Just in the recent six drops in the northern area of Belize during the last six months, Belize has played a major role in the transhipment of tons of cocaine into Mexico that headed for the United States.

Now that Belizean baby, “El Nene” and his lieutenants were captured Belize might see some lapse in the frequency of drug transhipment operations in northern Belize.

Mexican Police say when they were corralled they did not resist further, but some of them made calls to request back-up from their contacts to come and rescue them.

They activated the Mixed Operations Base code and in a matter of minutes, 12 State Police patrols, two Ministerial Police vans and a Navy personnel vehicles arrived at the scene and escorted the Police and their detainees to the police facilities in the first instance.

The Sinaloa Cartels Southern Command were handed in custody to the Mexican Federal Army/Navy officials who flew them out of Quintana Roo and immediately transferred them to Mexico City where they are being guarded by the Army, Navy and Federal security agents at the secured confines of the Attorney Generals Building (PGR) in Mexico City.

The Belize Times

Established 1957

14 APR 2013

|

ISSUE NO: 4840

The Truth Shall Make You Free

www.belizetimes.bz

|

$1.00

serving Belize since 1957 as the longest continuous newspaper.

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

Fay Castillo EDITOR

Omar Silva

Belmopan City: 2nd August 2018 Belmopan City Council workers and Transport officers is still waiting for their salaries and it seem that they won’t be getting it today at 3:00 pm as promised yesterday. Employees say that the issue of non-payment of salaries has been reoccurring for four months now. Today, during their break time, members of the Christians Workers Union walked out of the City Council compound abandoning their workstations to protest the fact that they had not been paid. Over 20 members stood at the main entrance

United States

2018

LAYOUT/GRAPHIC ARTIST

Chris Williams

OFFICE ASSISTANT

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

Email: belizetimesadvertisement@yahoo.com

editortimes@yahoo.com

Barbados (BBD): $ 1.00

Eastern Caribbean Euro (XCD):$ 1.35 (EUR) : $ 0.46

Sterling Pound Guatemala Quetzal CANADIAN DOLLAR CHINESE YUAN (GBP): $ 0.35 (GTQ): $ 3.85 (CNY): $ 3.28 (CAD): $ 0.67

Trinidadian (TTD) : $ 3.27

INDIAN RUPEE (INR): $ 33.71

5 AUG

2018

THE BELIZE TIMES

SWINE FLU

BACK IN BELIZE Belize City, Thursday August 2, 2018 The Ministry of Health has confirmed that the H1N1 virus is in Belize. To date a number of persons have tested positive for swine flu in Corozal, San Pedro and Belize City.

The Ministry’s response has been to provide the public information on how to avoid catching the virus and what to do should symptoms persist. There is no indication of the readiness of our local clinics and hospitals for a sharp increase in the number of H1N1 infections.

Unlike the seasonal flu, H1Ni of swine can be deadly. According to the World Health Organization, deaths from this year’s swine flu outbreak in the region have already reached 320. Mexico has recorded 86 deaths, 4 alone in past three weeks.

Dr. Russel Manzanero, head of the Ministry of Health’s epidemiology or communicable diseases department indicated on the Morning Vibes talk show that they are doing everything to keep this matter under control and are hoping that with vigilance and public information on how to

avoid catching the virus they can keep the spread of the swine flu from becoming an epidemic in Belize. He also said that unlike previous years when samples had to be sent abroad for testing, the Ministry of Health now has the capability to test for the H1N1 virus locally. While this may speed up the receipt of results, there was no indication that the government is in possession of enough testing kits to manage a serious outbreak.

For some months now health officials in the region have been preparing for the onset of this virus. The question is whether the Belize Government was looking at the number of cases in places like Chetumal and Merida where Belizeans travel frequently and putting the necessary protocols in place. Statistics show 82 cases of reported swine flu in the state of Quintana Roo and over 228 reported cases in the state of Yucatan.

Two states in Mexico where Belizeans visit on a daily basis. Given this knowledge, what has health minister Pablo Marin and this UDP administration done to alert Belizeans in San Pedro and Corozal and the many Belizeans who travel to Chetumal, especially around pay

day to shop?

Have there been any signs posted at the border crossings or any health officials at the Santa Elena border with information on how to minimize the risk of catching swine flu?

Swine flu is named for a virus that infects pigs, but the H1N1 strain spreads via human-to-human contact and if not kept under control it can lead to large number of deaths, especially among vulnerable populations, which include people with such illnesses like diabetes, HIV and other chronic illnesses.

It has been a constant criticism by the leadership of the PUP that this UDP administration is incompetent. Their inability to manage the economy has resulted in the weakening of the productive sector, their lack of any real plan in dealing with Guatemala’s continued aggression on in the Sarstoon has led to Guatemalan military officials intimidating Belizean fishermen along the Sarstoon and UDP corruption and mismanagement of the country is largely to blame for the crime situation spariling out of control.

The fact that the Ministry of Health is reacting at such a late

ROOMS FOR RENT: Clean and Comfortable Rooms for Rent at # 98 Euphrates Avenue, Belize City, Belize.

Full tiled room with Private Bath, Full Size Bed, Ceiling Fan, Light, Water and Cable inclusive. interested Call 620-6506.

FOR RENT: Small apartment at #89 Vernon Street, Belize City.

Priced at only $275.00 monthly. Visit the above address for more Information.

Needed: Domestic Helper at # 259 Los Lagos, Ladyville.

Call 622-7933 for more information.

Needed: Domestic Helper at # 10 Landivar & St. James Street, Belize City.

Call 602-4189 for more information.

03 3

stage in the swine flu situation is no surprise, since Pablo Marin has never seen his responsibility as Minister of Health as important as his personal enrichment. If this recent outbreak of swine flu becomes an epidemic it will be because of an unfit and incompetent health minster and a UDP Administration that has proven to be incapable of managing the affairs of the nation.

And while Belizeans suffer, the PM continues to be absent from Belmopan leaving the nation to ponder his famous words: “what it is, is what it is.”

LIQUOR LICENSE NOTICES Notice is hereby given that Shuming Zhou is applying for a Shop Liquor License to be operated at “QB Shop” located at # 91 Sylvester Blvd., Hattieville Village, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Maxie Staine is applying for a Publican Special Liquor License to be operated at “Maxie’s Restaurant & Lounge” located at 1 Ml. Philip Goldson Highway, Belize City, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Kayla Julia Verde is applying for a Restaurant Liquor License to be operated at “Mirador Restaurant & Bar” located in Sarteneja Village, Corozal District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Delmiro Correa is applying for a Publican Special Liquor License to be operated at “Nesty’s Cool Spot” located in San Joaquin Village, Corozal District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

4 04

QUESTIONS TO THE MINISTERS

1. Will the Minister of Health please inform the nation whether there are enough testing kits available to test Belizeans for swine flu? And will the Minister also inform the nation if there are any flu shots available for those Belizeans more at risk for example children, the elderly and those living with autoimmune diseases to help them to avoid catching swine flu?

2. Will the Minister with responsibility for police please inform the nation if his Police Summit in addition to proposing a police bond produced any recommendations to address the recent spate of hold up and jacking of small businesses across the country?

3. In light of the recent shooting of a child who died from a stray bullet while sleeping in her bed, something which could have been prevented had she been in a proper home, will the Minister with responsibility for Housing please inform the nation how many homes have been built so far this year?

And will the minister also inform the nation how much of the $1.8 million of the budget has been spent on the actual building of houses as well as how much of the $190,000. 00 allocated for housing grants have been issued to needy Belizeans?

4. Will the Minister with responsibility for Poverty Alleviation and Social Transformation please inform the nation if the $8 million that was diverted from building houses for the poor to building Fabers Road as an election gimmick has been put back into the poverty alleviation program?

5. Can the Rt. Hon. Prime Minster please tell the nation whether he is in agreement with the Foreign Minister in his assertion that anyone who is against gong to the ICJ is crazy and if so which of his cabinet ministers would be considered as crazy?

CARTOON

5 AUG

THE BELIZE TIMES

2018

IN THE SUPREME COURT OF BELIZE A.D. 2016 CLAIM NO. 394 of 2016 BETWEEN: ( PETER HANCOCK ( ( AND (

( ALVARO GRAJALEZ ( ( SHALINI HANCOCK

CLAIMANT

FIRST DEFENDANT SECONDDEFENDANT

TO: THE ABOVE-NAMED SECOND DEFENDANT

TAKE NOTICE that the Claimant has applied for sale of Parcel 2208 and 2209, Block 4 in the Orange Walk Town Registration Section and the hearing of this Application is scheduled for the 24th day of September, 2018 at 9:00am in the Supreme Court of Belize before Hon. Madam Justice S. Young.

DATED the 2nd day of August, 2018 ARTHURS & ASSOCIATES Attorneys-at-Law for the Claimant Cor Hudson St & Gabourel Lane Belize City, Belize PER: KEVIN L. ARTHURS

5 AUG

THE BELIZE TIMES

2018

EDITORIAL JESUS TAKE THE WHEEL!

T

he Prime Minister of Belize, Dean Barrow, is paid just around $100,000.00 per annum in salary along with other perks and benefits such as transportation, housing, telephone and health insurance. In addition, he gets monies for his constituency office and community vote. He is now also eligible for a fat pension paid for by us when he retires from politics. The average man on the street takes home $175.00 per week or $9,100 per year, no transportation, housing, telephone, or medical insurance. He has none of those benefits. Normal people in Belize cannot miss a day from work without the certificate of a doctor to take to Social Security. If he cannot produce one then he runs the risk of termination or losing the daily wage.

In Belize the Prime Minister of Belize, Dean Barrow, has scarcely gone a month without having to miss work due to failing health. He is a public servant and an employee of the people. He has collected full pay and benefits and has had to leave the country on paid medical leave consistently. Normal Belizeans would have been forced to resign or would have been taken to the medical board by Social Security and been declared medically unfit for work. On the anniversary of the now famous quote by the then Deputy Prime Minister Hon Gapi Vega the UDP are “not normal” because they “work much harder than a lot of other people.”

Since 2015 our Prime Minister Rt. Hon Dean Barrow seems to have the country on autopilot. Crime and violence have become widespread, armed robberies have escalated, seven (7) drug planes have landed and no cargo or culprit found. Our health services are so bad, in fact, that members of Cabinet seek medical attention abroad. There is rampant corruption in every Ministry. We have been on the tier three classification by the US State Department for two consecutive years because we have had no convictions on human trafficking cases. It is clear to them that there is collusion of government officials and public officers with those that traffic in humans.

Traffickers operate with impunity knowing that they are covered by corrupt officials. The health system is a shambles, with outbreaks of Typhoid Fever, H1N1, and no medicine at the hospitals and our people are dying because there is no affordable dialysis treatment.

The KHMH is actually collapsing! The prime minister seems to be playing hop-scotch with who he actually leaves in charge when he is away. It is baffling that he has no more confidence than we do in the Deputy Prime Minister Hon Patrick Faber and refuses point blank to leave him at the helm.

The Prime Minister has been accused of sleeping at the wheel, or as some pictures in evidence prove asleep at the House. We suggest that it is more of a case of no one at the wheel. Our economy is nose diving into a free fall. The North is reeling from the record low sugar prices. The entire country is being crushed under the prices of fuel and electricity. The silence from government and especially our Prime Minister is deafening. If he is in fact so ill that he cannot fulfil his obligation to Belize and her people then it is time to call a general election. Belize deserves nothing less than complete and total commitment from her leaders. If her leaders are not prepared or are unable, for whatever reason, to provide that complete and total dedication of their skill, time and devotion to the advancement of our Jewel they must resign. We do not have a leader at the helm, we could ask… but God only helps those who help themselves.

05 5

en Español

!JESUS, POR FAVOR TOME EL MANDO!

E

l primer ministro de Belice, Dean Barrow, gana aproximadamente $100,000.00 anuales de sueldo junto con otras ventajas y beneficios tales como transporte, alojamiento, teléfono y seguro de salud. Además, recibe dinero para administrar su oficina política y un monto para la comunidad que representa. Ahora también es elegible para una buena pensión pagada por nosotros cuando él se retire de la política. El hombre promedio en la calle se lleva a casa $175 por semana o $9.100 por año, no tiene los beneficios de transporte, vivienda, teléfono ni seguro médico gratis. Él no tiene ninguno de esos beneficios. La gente normal en Belice no puede perder un día de trabajo sin el certificado de un médico para poder beneficiarse del pago del Seguro Social. Si él no puede producir uno corre el riesgo de perder su empleo o perder el salario diario.

En Belice el primer ministro de Belice, Dean Barrow, apenas se ha pasado un mes sin tener que faltar al trabajo debido a la falta de salud. Él es un funcionario y un empleado del pueblo. Él ha recibido beneficios y sueldo completo y ha viajado fuera del país constantemente por razones médicas y aún recibe su salario. Los beliceños normales habrían sido obligados a renunciar o habrían sido llevados a la junta médica por el Seguro Social y se les hubiera declarado con discapacidad médica.

En el aniversario de la frase ahora famosa por el entonces vice primer Ministro Honorable Gapi Vega los del UDP son personas “anormales” porque “trabajan mucho más duro que muchas otras personas.”

Desde 2015 nuestro primer ministro el muy honorable Dean Barrow parece tener al país en piloto automático. El crimen y la violencia se han generalizado, han aumentado los robos a mano armadas, siete (7) narco aviones han aterrizado y no se ha incautado carga o encontrado algún culpable. Nuestros servicios de salud son tan malos, que de hecho, los miembros del gabinete buscan atención médica en el extranjero.

Hay una corrupción rampante en cada Ministerio. Hemos estado en la clasificación de tercera categoría por el Departamento de Estado por dos años consecutivos ya que no hemos tenido condenas en casos de trata humanos. Está claro que hay colusión de funcionarios del gobierno y funcionarios públicos con las personas que trafican con seres humanos. Los traficantes operan con impunidad sabiendo que están cubiertos por funcionarios corruptos.

El sistema de salud es un desastre, con brotes de fiebre tifoidea, H1N1 y no hay medicina en los hospitales. Nuestra gente se está muriendo porque no hay ningún tratamiento de diálisis asequible. ¡El KHMH en realidad está colapsando! El primer ministro parece estar jugando hop scotch (rayuela) con quién en realidad deja a cargo cuando él está ausente. Es desconcertante que no confía, más que nosotros, al Honorable Viceprimer Ministro Patrick Faber y rehúsa dejarlo al frente del país.

El primer ministro ha sido acusado de dormirse al volante, o como algunas fotos ponen en evidencia durmiendo en la casa de representantes. Sugerimos es más que un caso de nadie en el volante. Nuestra economía va en una caída libre. El norte se trata de recobrar de los precios de azúcar más bajo en los últimos años. Todo el país está sufriendo bajo los precios aplastantes del combustible y la electricidad.

El silencio del gobierno y sobre todo de nuestro primer ministro es ensordecedor. Si de hecho está tan enfermo y no puede cumplir su obligación a Belice y a su pueblo entonces es tiempo de llamar una elección general.

Belice merece nada menos que el compromiso completo y total de sus líderes. Si sus dirigentes no están dispuestos y son incapaces, por cualquier motivo, para proporcionar esa dedicación total y completa de sus habilidades y tiempo completo y dedicación al avance de nuestra joya deben dimitir. No tenemos líder al timón, podríamos pedir... pero Dios sólo ayuda a aquellos que se ayudan a sí mismos.

6 06

THE BELIZE TIMES

READY TO WIN

…the Belize National Team Selection Belize City: Thursday 2nd August 2018 The Belize Times joins the National Volleyball Association (BVA) in inviting all Belzeans to come out in support our women National Team Selection representing Belize at the upcoming XX Central American Women’s Volleyball Championship Tournament to be held this weekend from August 4th -10th 2018 at the Civic Centre here in the City.

Our National Selection is represented by our top female athletes: Shantell Arnold, Sherica Burton, Allyana Musa, Mya Musa, Melanie Palacio, Karen Quan, Fatima Ramirez, Nelissa Ramirez, Ayah Safa, Jahshema Saunders, Kevana Sebastian, Tichele Solis, Tisha Solis and Mau-

H1 N1, the SWINE

By Micah Goodin BELIZE CITY,Thur. Aug. 2, 2018 Belize has just positively confirmed five cases of the H1N1 virus otherwise known as swine flu. These confirmations come at a time when the country is experiencing a significant shortage of vital medications.

On July 27th, the Central Medical Lab confirmed three cases in the Corozal District. They include two Belizean men who recently travelled to Merida, Mexico, and a pregnant woman from Chetumal, Mexico.

Another confirmation was made by the Central Medical Lab on July 31st. This time the lab confirmed that an infant in San Pedro had tested positive as well as an adult in the Belize District.

As you know, the H1N1 virus is caused by a strain of the influenza virus. Its symptoms are the same as the seasonal flu with cough, fever, sore throat, headache and runny nose.

When Belize Times contacted Director of Health Services, Dr. Marvin Manzanero, for comment on the confirmations, he conceded that there is no specific treatment and prevention is best.

However, he added, “Tamiflu is recommended

by CDC [Centers for Disease Control and Prevention] for specific populations albeit its use is debatable when based on evidence-based medicine.”

When our newspaper probed, Dr. Manzanero further conceded that there was a shortage of Tamiflu in the country.

“It is not widely available as we need to be judicious in its use,” he said.

While there is a shortage of Tamiflu in the country, Manzanero confirmed that there are other shortages in hospitals countrywide.

In Belmopan at the Western Regional Hospital, our newspaper has been informed that there are no antibiotics, syringes, needles and solutions for cleaning wounds.

Our source revealed that this shortage was also evident to the Northern and Southern Regional Hospitals.

Dr. Manzanero, confirmed this shortage but went on to blame suppliers.

“This was caused as these were tender items and supplier has had a setback in terms of delivery,” he said.

In the face of a threatening epidemic and shortage of medication, the Minister of Health, Pablo Marin, is asleep at the wheels.

He has not commented publicly and has provided no strategy to comfort a concerned public.

Last year, he led new regulations, which only allow for a few companies to import pharmaceuticals.

Today, we are seeing a weakness of this regulation as it prevents the country from responding quickly to the needs of the public.

5 AUG

2018 rissa Williams.

Our representatives are young and strong, well-prepared and fiercely patriotic and ready to stand their ground and defend Belize on our home turf. The Central American Women’s Championship the largest , most prominent international volleyball tournament to be held in Belize, and we must go out to show support to our home girls.

The BVA requests the honor of your presence; all Belizeans come out with our flags and national colors for this major sporting event.

Every Central American Volleyball Federation ( Belize, Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, Nicaragua and Panama are ready to compete in this event, but only we could make t happen. They represent us, and we must show pride with support to our girls.

5 AUG

2018

OUT Making the Right Decision

!

Dear Editor, Kindly publish this letter in this week’s edition of your newspaper. I am exhausted and increasingly frustrated of seeing the inefficient use and allocation of our already scarce resources. Not only has the study of economics but logic dictated the importance of utilizing your finite resources in the most efficient manner in order to achieve the desired outcomes. It is evident that the present administration in Government has no clue of this concept or prefer to dismiss it and instead make decisions exclusively based on political considerations. That practice is manifested in every department and ministry of government or public sector project undertaken today. Today I highlight a glaring example of this issue.

The Minister of Health, Hon Pablo Marin, built an operating theatre in Corozal Hospital costing over a million dollars just because he wanted to comply with a campaign promise. This operating theatre is severely underutilized. Most of the time it remains locked up because it’s either lacking a surgical team (the Minister forgot that a surgery room needs a surgery team) or some equipment or the other. All the studies show that there is not enough human and other resources to keep this surgery room fully functional and not even enough patients to warrant the investment. All the studies given to the Minister recommended that only Regional hospitals should be equipped with operating theatres and other reliable arrangements would be made to transport all patients to these centers.

But the Minister would have none of that and he built the Operating Theatre that continues to be locked up and grossly underutilized. This is so while the roof of the surgery room at the Northern Regional Hospital leaks like a colander. A staff member of that Hospital tells me that on rainy days it’s customary to see theatre nurses having to hold an umbrella over the surgeon who is performing the surgery and even over the patient. Also in every district residents who cannot afford private doctors and have to go to the public clinics/hospitals complain that they still have to buy the prescribed medicines because the public hospitals and clinics are always out of basic medications. The Corozal Polyclinic is no exception.

This highlights the very important concept of doing what is technically right or what is politically expedient. A concept our UDP Ministers face every day and without a doubt chose the latter.

These decisions have great negative repercussions on our society and country.

I hope the day will come when our politicians follow a development plan for the country and make decisions that will truly assist in the progress of our people.

Sincerely, Yvette Gibson Corozal Town

THE BELIZE TIMES

07 7

BELIZEAN WOMEN:

Not there, but getting there by: Angeles Itzab Statistics show that women are subjected to violence such as rape, murder and torture in the western region of the world. This is not an attempt to undermine the struggles those women face in NO WAY. Feminism, is such a complex issue that holds distinct meanings to every single woman.

For some women the liberty to wear any item of clothing whether it be tight, short, long, sheer without being “shamed” for it, is feminism. For others, it can literally mean the right to be born. None of these definitions however are any less valid than the other.

Feminism is a multi-layered issue, and on mainstream media sites the discussion is one-sided.

In Belize it is dangerous for women to be out of the house, alone, after a certain time of night.

In the burning heat of summer, girls have to think twice about wearing anything short or sleeveless or in any way comfortable, because it would be perceived as indecent.

Girls are cat-called on their way to school while just wearing a pair of jeans and a t-shirt. Or on their way home while wearing loose work clothes covered from head to toe.

Women are often times terrified to enter a taxi alone because they’re at the driver’s mercy especially at

night, it’s dangerous to turn a man down because they could literally END UP MURDERED, and when you talk about issues like rape, powerful men in powerful offices in the country literally try to blame anything else but the rapist.

In China it’s illegal for pregnant women to do a sex determination procedure because most people, when finding out that the unborn child is female, abort her.

Doctors often times take bribes and do the test anyway. Aborted female fetuses are often fed to stray dogs or thrown into sewers.

Female babies that are born are Continued on page 8

8 08

Celebrating the life of Victor Ayuso Remarks by: Hon. Jose A Mai Deputy Party, Leader Orange Walk Town Monday, 30th July 2018 Good afternoon.

Today all of us in the People’s United Party join with our dear Victor’s family to mourn his death and also to celebrate his life.

Our Party Leader is away but sends his sincerest condolences to his family and everyone gathered here today.

For us in the PUP Victor Ayuso was the embodiment of our PUP Sprit.

Yes we always say we are here to serve to the people.

And the life of Mr. Vic was a true example of service to others.

From he started with us in 1966 when he was fist elected to the Town Council he worked to for and with others.

The sum total of his life with the PUP spans more than a half a century.

Just imagine more then 50 years as a stalwart of the People’s United Party.

He was a part of the movement that brought about Universal Adult Suffrage.

He was a part of the Independence movement in the 70 and was there on that historic September twenty-first day when Belize became independent.

For more than 18 of those 50 plus years of service as a PUP, Victor Ayuso offered himself as a candidate for the PUP. Every significant achievement in this town he was somehow involved in some way.

Victor Ayuso successful at the polls and the respect he

BELIZEAN WOMEN:

5 AUG

THE BELIZE TIMES

gained form this community was earned because he was about the people and about the betterment of this community and our nation.

Two of his crowning moments in his political life were first his role in the construction of our Central Park and second the town clock.

How proud he was to watch the Central Park become a place where we gathered to celebrate, protest, and to honour our nation.

Of course if you want to truly

know how much he believed in service to others you only have to go back to the history of the taxi movement here in Orange Walk town.

Again, he was a part of the construction of the taxi plaza at Barracks.

Today many of our private taxi owners operate in a space provided for them because of the determination of Victor Ayuso These things are in and of themselves the legacy of a man who was always willing to work hard for others.

Whether it was to help expand the town to create new homes for young families to help develop or to construct a new park or playground, he wanted to help others.

Perhaps this was why he was also very passionate about the Orange Walk Lion’s Club another of his beloved organizations where he made his contribution to the service of others.

For sure a man like this would have to leave an impression on many and so it was for

2018 Mr. Vic who became involved in the successful campaigns of many good PUPs here in Orange Walk.

From Polo Briceño to Monchi Cervantez Sr.; from his work in support of Belisario Carballo to that of Nayo Baeza, Mr. Vic never stopped sharing his ideas and experiences with his fellow PUP leaders who were all grateful for his support and generosity.

Today we in the PUP speak of our true blue spirit.

This true blue spirit is inspired by good people like Victor Ayuso, a Party man who did as much good as he could for as many people as he could for more than a half a century.

He made a difference in the lives of his immediate family and friends, this wonderful community we call Orange Walk Town and yes he made a difference in the lives of all of us who are proud PUPs. We thank you his family and friends for sharing Victor with us.

Oh behalf of the Hon. John Briceño and the entire PUP family wish you God’s blessings and we join you in mourning but more so in celebrating the life of our dearly departed brother.

We are confident that his good work, his good heart and his love will travel with him into the next life.

May his soul and souls of all our dearly departed family and friends rest in peace and rise in glory.

Not there, but getting there

Continued from page 7 often murdered. There are places where local village councils don’t allow women to own mobile phones because it would give them too much freedom. Girls are pulled out of school and young college students, to get married, because a woman’s only job is to give birth to a boy, and why not start right after her body is able to carry a baby, right? Marital rape wasn’t against the law well in the 21st century, because some lawyers and judges literally couldn’t wrap their head around the fact that married women can be raped by their husbands. In Belize a marital rape Bill was introduced as late as 1999, but also with certain specifications for filing. Homosexuals–they’re not even allowed the freedom to have sex, in Belize the law that stated the same was recently amended in 2013. But this does not stop the prejudice and chastising that comes from society.

And as bad as women in Belize have it, they are, in fact constitutionally, granted so much more freedom than women of other countries. The law gives Belizean women the right to wear what they want, go wherever they please, drive a car, or be alone. The law gives Belizean women freedom, even if society doesn’t. Cis, straight Belizean woman are not considered an abomination against nature. And therefore when reading about the lives of women in countries worse off than in Belize, Belizean women are reminded that they are, in fact, endlessly privileged. Their Belizean nationality grants them equal status with a man, some Belizean parents, progressive and feminist as they are give them freedoms that even some of their own friends don’t have, education and financial status give Belizean girls the freedom to dream of what they can be in the future. They are lucky.

No “version” of feminism is inherently more valid than the other. But Western feminism tends to discuss issues like equal pay and sexualization in media, which are literally so far out of the issues women from less liberated societies face. Women from countries who do not enjoy the same privileges deserve to be acknowledged as well.

Feminism should be about all women, of all backgrounds, otherwise we might as well not bother.

2nd August 2018 For immediate release EMANCIPATION DAY MESSAGE Hon. John Briceño Leader: People’s United Party

I greet Belizeans everywhere on this Emancipation Day in the spirit of freedom.

Emancipation Day allows us the chance to reflect on what was lost because of slavery and how much has been gained by the children of those who had to suffer this greatest form of cruelty.

Because of the courage of our ancestors we stand today free from the bondage of slavery and strong in our conviction that this should never happen again.

The ending of the evils of human enslavement is however only a part of the struggle to free ourselves from the bigotry and injustices of our time.

Poverty and other forms of modern day oppression remain our unfinished take.

So while we celebrate Thomas Buxton’s bill before Parliament in 1833 which resulted in the Act that brought about the Emancipation Proclamation of August 1834, let us commit to the work ahead for we still have a long way to go including the freeing of our minds from mental slavery.

Happy Emancipation Day!

5 AUG

THE BELIZE TIMES

2018

09 9

WAITING ON

EMANCIPATION DAY Forging Partnerships. Impacting Lives

SHE DI ANNE!

It should come as no surprise to those who know her that any large UWG function feels incomplete if lady Anne Cuvas is not in the house. Anne always brings sunshine and laughter when she walks into a room, and is always ready to share a joke, a smile and a laugh which all seem to be in endless supply from her heart. Yes, we in the UWG and the PUP love Anne! She di Anne!

Anne Cuvas was born on the 9th of September 1974, the last of five children to beautiful parents Rita Ramos and Archibald Cuvas. She grew up in the family home on Central American Boulevard and attended St. Martin de Porres Primary School, where she is now the Principal. She completed her high school education at St. Catherine’s Academy and then went on the St. John’s Junior College and then the University of Belize, where she earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Primary Education. Anne is now pursing a Master’s Degree in Education Leadership, an area she feels passionate about and which will help her in her current and future role as a leader in education in Belize.

Anne was married to the late Mr. Philip Palacio, former PUP Standard Bearer in Mesopotamia Division. She is the proud mother of two daughters and one son, ages 22, 15 and 11. She was raised Catholic and today remains devoted to her church, family and community. Anne shares that what strengthened her faith and relationship with God was leaning on the Lord when her Mother and Husband passed away on the same day, March 7th, 2017. It was her faith that carried her through the hardest moments of her life, and continues to uplift her today, making her be a shining light to others around her.

As a devout Catholic and spiritual woman, Anne has strong faith and applies good ethics and moral standards in everything she does. She firmly believes that once you are spiritually fulfilled, good ethics and morals come come through. This is how she raises her children and how she leads her school of 820 children and 30 staff members in the Lake Independence Division.

Anne’s mother was a strong PUP woman, however she gave her daughter the freedom to choose the party she wanted. For Anne the decision was easy.

She saw how the PUP was for the people.

She reminisced that it was Carolyn Trench Sandiford who brought her out of her political shell, when Carolyn asked Anne to introduce her as Standard Bearer in the Collet Constituency. She also was inspired

by now Deputy Party Leader Cordel Hyde when he entered the political world. She saw someone young and charismatic wanting to work for the people in Lake Independence. The deal was sealed when Anne worked with her husband Philip in Mesopotamia Division, and the rest, as they say, is history. She is a roots lady who gets great satisfaction and inspiration from visiting residents in their homes, making sure everyone is ok, attending to their needs and concerns. It is this same interest Anne takes in her students at St. Martin de Porres, visiting their homes when they may be facing challenges.

Passionate about education, Anne has been providing assistance to at risk youth in Belize City to complete their high school education. She formalized this initiative in 2010 when she registered her charitable organization Belize Kids First. The goal of the organization is to support at risk youths, boys and girls, who may not be able to attend or to complete high school. To date there have been about 15 students who have received full scholarships and more than twenty who are being supported with books, CXCs, uniform, school supplies and so on. Through this initiative Anne is opening positive doors for these youth who may otherwise have had few other opportunities in life.

Anne is a True Blue PUP. She remembers the passion the PUP had when she was growing up; a passion for the Party and a passion for the people. She wants a return to those days of PUP love for one and love for all. She wants to see the same passion of past, current and future leaders, working towards one noble goal: growing and developing our people. Being on the ground, Anne knows the love is still out there for the PUP. Even after so many years in opposition, she still sees the hope the people have in the PUP. She is confident that they understand the difference between the two political parties. They know that with the PUP life is better. She wants the Belizean people to keep that hope and love alive but also to keep the party on track. “Let us always remember that the people are the government and the representatives are the servants. Understand the power you have; politicians are the servants and should be servants at all times.”

Anne believes in the Party and in its leadership. She feels that anyone who becomes a leader wants the best for the party and the people. She reminds our leaders to always understand that this is not about them but about the people they are sworn to serve. Anne is well known in her community and in politics. She has been approached several times to run for office and has intentions of doing so in the near future, and is praying and waiting for the appointed time to do it for the people she loves.

Sister Anne, we believe in you, and we thank you for doing so much for your community, your children and your party.

You are steering our youth back on the straight and narrow path to success and for that we congratulate you as being a bold agent of change! You di Anne!

Join the movement by contacting belizeuwg@gmail.com or call 677-9168. Your voice matters in helping to create the next Women’s Agenda of the PUP.

By: Omar Silva Belize City: Monday 30th July 2018 In a report by the US State Department dated June 30th of this year the Government of Belize was severely censured for not being able or maybe even willing to fully meet the minimum standards for the elimination of the scourge that is Human Trafficking.

Belize is now considered a tier three country for two consecutive years. This ranking is given to those countries where no efforts were made by the government to prosecute government officials or public service employees who are believed to be complicit in severe forms of human trafficking. The US State Department recognizes that some paltry steps were taken these include the identification of seventeen potential trafficking cases and nine new cases. However, there was no new investigation and neither was there any prosecution of any public official despite serious allegations of top level official complicity. In addition to this there has been zero convictions of cases involving Human Trafficking and this despite having a special police task force for just that purpose.

Belize is considered a country of origin, transit, or destination for victims of trafficking. Belize should give more priority to this scourge, especially because our children and youth count for almost two-thirds of our population.

In the trafficking of humans, children make up almost a third of the victims worldwide. In 2013, July 30th was designated as the World Day against Trafficking in Persons.

This was to “raise awareness of the situation of victims of human trafficking and for the promotion and protection for their rights.” In recent news a sixty-year-old man was accused of bringing a female

minor from Melchor across the border from Guatemala to Belize. He is accused of selling her to different men for sex on several occasions over a three year period. Her ordeal began when she was just about 13 years old and ended because she managed to escape.

Unfortunately Human Trafficking is nothing new to Belize. All across the country there are people who prey on the weak, the poor and the vulnerable. Migrant women and children especially suffer these horrible acts in silence too afraid of reprisals, many do not ever report these incidents. According to latest reports from the US State Department, very little effort is applied by the government to curb this crime because of the purported involvement by a few corrupt officials. In recent years Belize has increasingly become known as a child sex tourism destination. It is also reported that there is forced labour in the private sector among the South Asian and Chinese communities.

These are not new or unusual occurrences in Belize. Our GOB remains silent and complacent in the wake of all the violence and misery. Could it be because some high ranking members of public service profit from the human misery that trafficking perpetuates? Is it easier and more lucrative to turn a blind eye to these crimes that rob victims of their basic human rights?

Can the Members of Cabinet really sleep at night and rest easy knowing what happens on a daily basis in Belize? For the all the modern day slaves in Belize and those trafficked through her waters and through her borders Emancipation day which is celebrated on 1st August means nothing. Victims of human trafficking that continue to live in modern day slavery robbed of their choices, robbed of their voices, robbed of their rights…they are still waiting on their Emancipation Day.

10

THE BELIZE TIMES

5 AUG

2018

PUBLIC AUCTION SALES: PROPERTIES PUBLIC AUCTION SALES: PROPERTIES Placencia Peninsula; Stann Creek District

Placencia Peninsula; Stann Creek District

ORDERof ofthe theMortgagees, Mortgagees,Messrs.

Messrs.The The Belize Belize Bank BYBY ORDER BankInternational InternationalLimited, Limited,Licensed LicensedAuctioneer Auctioneer Kevin A. Castillo will sell the following properties in front Messrs.

The Belize Bank Limited, Kevin A. Castillo will sell the following properties in front Messrs. The Belize Bank Limited, Main Main Street, Placencia Village, Stann Creek District on Wednesday th 15th August 2018 at 10:30 am:

Street, Placencia Village, Stann Creek District on Wednesday 15 August 2018 at 10:30 am: 1.

Parcel No. 2109 Placencia Residences, Placencia Peninsula, Stann Creek:

REGISTRATION SECTION BLOCK PARCEL Placencia North 36 2109 (Being a concrete bungalow dwelling house elevated 3 ft. above grade [32 ft. X 46 ft.] + side porches [5 ft X 20 ft. each side] + back porch [5ft X 42ft] containing 2 bedrooms + 2 bathrooms (1 with jacuzzi) + kitchen + laundry + dining room + large open living room and lagoon side lot [902.31 square meters (1079.16 square yards)] situate in the sub-division known as The Placencia Residences near Mile 13 Placencia Road, Placencia Peninsula, Stann Creek District, the freehold property of Mr. Giuseppe Asti). *******NB. Copies of Covenant is available upon request********* 2.

Parcel No. 2159 Placencia Residences, Placencia Peninsula, Stann Creek:

REGISTRATION SECTION BLOCK PARCEL Placencia North 36 2159 (Being a canal side vacant lot situate in the sub-division known as The Placencia Residences near Mile 13 Placencia Road, Placencia Peninsula, Stann Creek District, the freehold property of Mr. Ryan Pott). *******NB. Restrictions on use of Property is available upon request*********

INFORMATION(foreclosure ADDITIONAL ADDITIONAL INFORMATION - www.belizebank.com listing) www.belizebank.com (foreclosureCASH listing) TERMS: STRICTLY KEVIN A. CASTILLO TERMS:TELEPHONE STRICTLY CASH 223-4488 E-mail: kevinacas@yahoo.com KEVIN A. CASTILLO Face Book: Belize TELEPHONE: 223 Auctions 4488 Email: kevinacas@yahoo.com Face Book: Belize Auctions

5 AUG

THE BELIZE TIMES

2018

CAREER OPPORTUNITY

11

INTERNAL AUDITOR

The Holy Redeemer Credit Union Limited (HRCU) invites qualified individuals to join its Internal Audit Department Internal Audit covers all aspects of the Holy Redeemer Credit Union ( H R C U ) business operations, governance and financial management through the evaluation of policies, procedures, business practices and internal controls. The Internal Auditor will work independently under the guidelines of the HRCU Charter. The Internal Auditor will:

 Provide audit coverage of assigned audit areas  Participate in and lead audit engagements, from planning to reporting, and produce quality deliverables in accordance with professional internal audit standards;  Finalize and communicate audit findings and develop comprehensive recommendations to address and improve the design and effectiveness of internal controls;  Prepare concise written reports and presentations on the activity audited;  Implement and execute an effective continuous auditing program for assigned areas.  Analyze and assess assigned financial and operating systems of the Credit Union  Assist in the evaluation of policies, procedures and practices related to risk management;  Perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned.

The applicants should possess the following:

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

 A Bachelor`s Degree in Accounting or Finance or related discipline from a recognized tertiary institution; with at least five years working experience in conducting Internal Audits

 A recognized professional qualification or certificate would be an asset.

TECHNICAL KNOWLEDGE

 Knowledge of the Credit Union Act, audit and accounting principles and internal control processes, investigative and reporting skills; ability to apply relevant methodologies and tools effectively on audit engagements; proficient in software application, including Microsoft suite.

COMPETENCIES

 Flexibility;

Adaptability; Results Oriented; Organizational Awareness; Communication; Personal Credibility; Analytical Thinking, Diagnostic Information Gathering.

SALARY & BENEFITS

 In accordance with the Credit Union’s Salary Structure Submit the following documents by Friday, August 10, 2018  Letter of Application

 Curriculum Vitae  Copies of university transcripts, degrees, and any other personal certificates  Police Record and References (at least two recent) Applications should be addressed to: Manager, Human Resources Department Holy Redeemer Credit Union 1 Hydes Lane, P.O. Box 544 Belize City, Belize Ref: Internal Auditor – Internal Audit Department (All applications will be held in strict confidence) ********************************************************************************************* HRCU reminds all member-owners to please stop by the office on Hydes Lane or in Independence Village to update your account information if you have not already done so! Please bring along your Social Security Card or Passport and a utility bill as proof of your address. These are now requirements of the Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and Counter Financing of Terrorism (CFT) compliance Laws that we must adhere to! ******************************************************************************************

56 12 2018 5 AUG

5 AUG

THE BELIZE TIMES

2018

5 AUG

2018

18 JAN

THE BELIZE TIMES 2015

SHUGA CITY’S FIESTA-RAMA, HUGE! Belize City: Wednesday 1st August 2018 The Orange Walk Town Council celebrated its annual family affair event “Fiestarama” last weekend at the People’s Stadium, and despite the obstacles set by the “Sports Counci” in obtaining the venue, the weekend affair was a huge success according to Mayor Kevin Bernard of Sugacity.

Mayor, Kevin Bernard said in his message of appreciation to his municipality “We can’t continue to be consumed by politics. When there are good things happening in our communities for our communities, regardless of which political Party is leading the way, we must support.

When the people benefit, especially our youth as is the case with Fiestarama, we cannot get mired in petty politics.”

He expressed express his thankfulness to everyone who assisted in making this annual event a success. It is believed that the attendance was the biggest and best ever, because from the optics, the crowd was huge. The Orange Walk mayor told the BT that he was extremely proud of the way the event has grown over the years. It has evolved into a truly community-based cultural event featuring the very best of Orange Walk.

The event allows community business persons and entrepreneurs to put their best foot forward with their community-minded participation. The little giant said that the event had brought people together from all over this country to enjoy the clean, family fun and entertainment but of course, there was also fun for the more grown-up,” Bernard said.

In conclusion, Bernard thanked all the supporters, town council team and attendees.

He noted that all funds generated from the fair are used to provide employment opportunities for youth into the Orange Walk community.

According to Bernard, the Orange Walk town council has employed as many as 150 youths to work for the community, so they can earn money for their back to school expenses.

The mayor gracefully offered a transparent view of the proceeds of last weeks event for all to see.

“We must shake off the nastiness of partisan politics, which to me is like a yoke dragging us down,” he ended.

Budget Expenses towards Fiestarama Event Expenses Amount Musical Entertainment/stage/lights $ 11,900.00 Saturday Events $ 2,137.00 Sunday Events $ 2,589.00 Logistics Expenses $ 15,690.14 Total Expenses $ 32,316.14 Income Gate Sales Saturday $ 8,500.00 Gate Sales Sunday $ 23,146.00 Caribbean Rum $ 2,600.00 Cesar Miranda - Mechanical Rides $ 3,000.00 Efrain Moralez - Mechanical Rides $ 3,000.00 Food stalls $ 3,725.00 SMART $ 1,500.00 SMART CAR Show $ 500.00 OW East Standard Bearer Donation $ 900.00 Bowen $ 7,000.00 Total Estimated Revenues

$

53,871.00

Net Surplus (Deficit)

$

21,554.86

13

14

THE BELIZE TIMES

5 AUG

2018

INPROPER DISPOSAL OF SOLID WASTE CAUSES PROLIFERATION OF VECTORS AND DISEASES “Human society sustains itself by transforming nature into garbage”. –Mason Cooley– I. Background The Government’s commitment to promote Sustainable Development and prevent and manage waste in an environmentally-sound manner is a key facet to meet Sustainable Development Goals by 2030. The existing system for managing solid wastes in Belize is financially and environmentally unsustainable. The main problem is the lack of comprehension of the waste management as a holistic system rather than an infrastructure and logistic institution. It is a system with technical, social, financial and institutional dimensions and if we want to build a proper system we have to think on a systemic way.

The most usual mistake is that people tend to think about waste management in terms of infrastructure and they do nothing because they wait for government to deliver.

One important component of waste management is human’s relations.

What is the role of informal sector in waste management? There are some examples of informal wastes collections groups in Latin America: eg. “Cartoneros” in Buenos Aires, Argentina and “Catadores” in Brazil. We should learn from these examples that if these informal groups are organized and become part of the system, they offer a lot.

Informal sectors are not enemies even if there is some competition for some materials, informal sector recyclers in most cities are the only organized activity and we must deal with them as important component of the system.

II. Discussion Unless valued as a potential resource and managed properly, wastes can often result in unnecessary depletion of natural resources, unnecessary costs, and environmental damage that could have been avoided. Sustainable Waste Management is ultimately about using resources more efficiently.

As a society, we currently produce about 210,000 tons of municipal solid wastes annually (approximately 3.6 lbs. or 1.6 kg per capita per day), and the quantities are continuously growing. At the moment, most of these wastes are either landfilled without pre-treatment or simply dumped or burned. This situation is clearly unsustainable, especially for a small country like Belize.

The Solid Waste Management Authority (SWAMA) is working collaboratively to reduce the impact of the indiscriminate dumping of solid waste on the environment and the health of Belize. The improper disposal of solid waste can lead to severe health outcomes by creating the environment for the proliferation of vectors such as rats, cockroaches and mosquitoes.

It’s well known that the proper management of solid waste will both reduce the breeding sights for vectors as well as improve the aesthetics of the Country. There is no secret that the chronic issue of derelict vehicles littering several of the less transited Country’s road as a major area of concern. Therefore, a common approach towards removing these vehicles is needed

and ensure that they are adequately managed. We also realize that these vehicles pose a challenge in terms of harborage.

They collect water and we find vectors are being housed and there is a proliferation of vectors as a result of the harborage that is being created by these vehicles.

There are a number of suggested areas of collaboration to address the many issues associated with the indiscriminate disposal of solid wastes in Belize. Among the measures we proposed are: 1. Source reduction techniques through increase cleanup campaigns by partnering with Communities Countrywide.

2. Mechanisms in terms of sensitization, public awareness and education need to be reinforced. It’s required that all schools, families, mothers and fathers’ groups, sporting groups be involved in this Public Education Campaign.

3. Greater use of the Social Media, TV, Radio and Newspapers in terms of sending out messages.

What can our Mayors do to improve waste management systems? The most important capital for waste management is human capital (humans resources), so no matter how difficult or easy is waste management situation in each municipality, there is only one single step that we need to start: create a core of people that understand the situation and are capable to interact, give them a vision and a management capacity and let them work on that. If we build this core, then we will get the work properly done, with the technical elements, the infrastructure and the social aspects required. If we don’t find this core of people we will never do it!

Unfortunately, the lack of adherence by individuals to the garbage collection schedules forms a major component of the solid waste problem. It’s a common practice that persons end up putting garbage after the truck has passed and don’t put it out properly, so, it’s also required that people be better at their disposal practices. In the Western Corridor for example, must be highlighted the issue of some trucks hired to dispose garbage at the Transfer Stations are among the major contributors to the solid waste problem as they at times dispose of this garbage indiscriminately.

Last week social media was inundated with pictures of massive fish death in San Pedro Island, this alarming situation may be associated to the heavy rainfalls that discharged a huge amount of untreated and contaminated storm-water flows into the sea. This is a source of water pollution that should be managed properly.

The inexistence of a Solid Waste Management Act in Belize has real consequences for example any person can commits an environment offence no penalty is specified. The provisions of the Environmental Protection Act and the Hazardous Waste Regulations relating to waste treatment and disposal are not being enforced effectively. The Department of Environment is not able to monitor and control SWM facilities, processes and activities adequately.

Despite the existence of legislation prohibiting the dumping of wastes, most of the solid wastes generated outside the Western Corridor are disposed of in an uncontrolled manner, resulting in potentially serious adverse impacts on the environment. So, we urge our people to use common sense and respect your neighbors as well as yourself and do things right and everybody will be able to live better together in the small space that we have.

As with waste prevention, because most waste producers in Belize pay little

Picture 1. Some Belizeans litter our Towns, inclusive where clear signs of “NO DUMPING GARBAGE” are located.

This is critical, especially in coastal zones.

Picture 2. Massive fish death in San Pedro may be associated with polluted storm-water entering our watersheds. or nothing towards the costs of managing their wastes in an environmentally -sound manner, they and other economic actors have little incentive to recover / recycle materials from waste themselves, or to facilitate recovery and recycling of their wastes by others.

Waste collection and street cleaning services are the aspects of SWM which are of greatest visibility and importance to the general public and, at the moment, these create a rather poor impression in many areas of Belize, especially in suburban and rural areas.

III. Conclusions It is clear from the baseline review and analysis of the existing situation that the current legislative framework for solid waste management, and for environmental protection generally, is rather fragmented, ineffective and in need of substantial reform.

But The existence of appropriate national policy measures and a supporting legislative framework is not in itself sufficient to ensure that wastes will be managed in an environmentally-sound and sustainable manner. To be effective, such measures must be administered and enforced which in turn requires that adequate systems, procedures and resources be deployed to fulfil these tasks.

A healthy, prosperous and resource-efficient society in which wastes are prevented, re-used, recycled or recovered wherever feasible and beneficial, and disposed of safely only as a last resort is needed in Belize. So, is required the improving of solid

waste management practices, reducing environmental pollution and enhancing the image of Belize in the eco-tourism market through better management of its Municipal Solid Wastes.

You can reach your own conclusions.

God bless Belize.

Dr. Pedro Villegas.

Follow us at: www.cubel.org & www.facebook.com/cubelconsultancy IV. References 1. Betts, M. P. (2015) “National Solid Waste Management Policy, Strategy & Plan in Belize” http://belizeswama.com/wp-content/ uploads/2014/01/Belize-National-SWM-Policy-16-March-2015-2.pdf, March, 2015.

2. Riquelme, R.; Méndez, P.; Smith, I. (2016) “Solid Waste Management in the Caribbean”. Proceedings of the Caribbean Solid Waste Conference: https://publications.iadb. org, Kingston, Jamaica, April, 2016.

3. Thompson, A. (2014) Burning Trash Bad for Humans and Global Warming. Scientific America Newsletter, available at: www.scientificamerican.com/article/burning-trash-badfor-humans-and-global-warming. September 2, 2014.

4. Verma, R.; Vinoda, K. S.; Papireddy, M.; Gowda, A. N. S. (2016). “Toxic Pollutants from Plastic Waste- A Review”. Procedia Environmental Sciences, 35, pp. 701-708.

5. Wiedinmyer, C.; Yokelson, R.; Gullett, B. (2014). “Global Emissions of Trace Gases, Particulate Matter & Hazardous Air Pollutants from Open Burning of Domestic Waste”. Environmental Science & Technology, 48, 16, pp.

9523–9530.

5 AUG

15

THE BELIZE TIMES

2018

MY PERSPECTIVE

By Dolores Balderamos Garcia

SOUNDS FAMILIAR??

This past week I came upon another very good opinion piece in the print media. It was about Toronto, Canada’s largest city. I was there a few weeks ago for a visit with friends. Large cities are amazing. I recall riding with friends into downtown Chicago a few years ago, and as you approach the city, you can see ever more clearly the approaching skyline and the famous buildings of each one. For Chicago it is the building, formerly one of the world’s tallest, that used to be called the Sears Tower. For Toronto it is the CN Tower, which dominates the downtown skyline. A city Hop On and Hop Off Bus gives tourists a great overview of Toronto, and on a very hot late June day we went on the City Tour, and enjoyed the sights and sounds of this bustling North American metropolis, especially the Chinatown and market areas.

The article about Toronto was, however, not at all a happy one.

It was penned by Jillian Kestler D’Amours and is about the terrible and escalating gun violence that the city is experiencing.

The author’s opinion is that the gun violence is a product of what authorities have not done right. The sub-title is “Activists say community-led initiatives and socioeconomic opportunities, not more police, is the key to ending gun violence.” Just last week there was a mass shooting that resulted in thirteen persons injured and two dead, eighteen year old and ten year old girls. In the wake of this latest tragedy there, community activists have urged officials and city leaders to take concrete steps to address the root causes of the ongoing violence. One activist has said that the gun violence is a product, a consequence, of what has not been done right yesterday.

He has called out the bad policies that are being repeated.

Authorities are always putting more police on the streets, but social scientists keep saying that the solution lies in community-led initiatives and socioeconomic opportunites, as well as ending policies that have led to discrimination. Said one professor: “You do not ignore, you do not oppress, you do not deny and exclude people, and then expect them to be walking around

with a smile on their face.” There are many gang related homicides, and there is now a brazenness and more and more shootings in public places. There are more guns than jobs, remarked another activist.

In addition, the mayor and other policy makers have called the perpetrators of gun violence “thugs” and “anti-social sewer rats.” This dehumanizing language is not helpful in any way, says an assistant professor, who also has focussed on the racial profiling that many black residents of the city have constantly had to endure.

What is really needed, she says, is treating gun violence as a public health issue, so that militaristic interventions and over-policing are minimized and more government initiatives to provide affordable housing, jobs, and social and health services are enhanced. Prevention is so much better than crackdowns and heavy-handed enforcement. It is essential, with community involvement, to meaningfully address the underlying causes that contribute to the violence – poverty, oppression, social exclusion and neglect.

However, there is a woeful lack of political leadership and resolve to deal with it, she says.

Does all this sound familiar ??

Remember the Herbert Gayle Report ? Remember what Hon. John Briceno and Hon. Cordel Hyde have said about targeted attention to Southside Belize City as a special economic development zone ? Are we not seeing too the brazenness of youthful perpetrators with a devil-may-care attitude ?

Just as in Toronto, right here at home we are seeing the same dearth of political leadership to get to the root of the violence.

The heartbreaking loss of a three year old child, who was inside her house sleeping, has to spur the powers-that-be into action. If this does not happen, there will be the same result due to lack of opportunities and the rest of the litany of causes that the violence in Canada’s largest city is seeing.

There has to be some reason and some genuine awakening here.

Although it is hard, I have to remain hopeful. We have got to turn this trend around, and as a city and country, I am convinced we can do better.

COMING SOON

MEGA BONANZA First Draw: August 30th, 2018 Ticket Stubs: $2.00 Bze each/available at Sky City, Ladyville $12,000.00 in cash & prizes for 50 lucky winners

BUY……..WIN & ENJOY

BY ORDER OF THE MORTGAGEE NOTICE OF INTENTION TO SELL ENELITA LUISA GOMEZ, Businessperson of San Pedro Town, Ambergris Caye, Belize District, Belize hereby gives notice of its intention to exercise its power of sale as Mortgagee under a Deed of Mortgage made the 2nd day of December 2004 and registered at the Land Titles Unit in Deeds Book Volume 37 of 2004 at Folios 743 -792 between GREEN WAVE INVESTMENTS LIMITED, a company duly incorporated under the Laws of Belize with registered office situate at No. 99 Albert Street, Belize City, Belize AND ENELITA LUISA GOMEZ, Businessperson of San Pedro Town, Ambergris Caye, Belize District, Belize Belmopan City who will at the expiration of two 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 properties must be made in writing to ENELITA LUISA GOMEZ Businessperson of San Pedro Town, Ambergris Caye, Belize District, Belize from whom full particulars and conditions of the sale (and for public auction) may be obtained.

THE SCHEDULE ABOVE REFERRED TO ALL that piece or parcel of land situated along the Caribbean Sea, 8.4 Miles North of San Pedro Town, Ambergris Caye, Belize District and containing 1.333 acres On the Northeast for Lot No. 1 now or formerly held by Ernesto Angel Gomez; On the Southeast by the Caribbean Sea; On the Southwest by Lot No. 3 now or formerly held by Leitz Dev Ltd and On the Northwest by land now or formerly held by Alamilla (San Andres) and more particularly delineated as Lot No. 2 as show on Plan of Survey attached hereto by Mervyn Hulse, Chartered Land Surveyor dated 10 August, 1990 and entered in Reg 9 Entry No. 1159 at the Office of the Commissioner of Lands and Surveys TOGETHER with all buildings and erections standing and being thereon.

DATED this 19th day of July, 2018 CAVE LOCHAN WATSON LLP Corner Landivar & 4th Streets Kings Park BELIZE CITY BELIZE

16

ESPAÑOL

THE THEBELIZE BELIZETIMES TIMES

55AUG AUG

2018 2018

DETIENEN A PRESUNTO OPERADOR DEL ‘CÁRTEL’ DE SINALOA EN QUINTANA ROO Ciudad de Mexico jueves, 26 jul 2018 Cancún, QR. Agentes de la Policía Municipal de Chetumal detuvieron a uno de los presuntos operadores del Cártel de Sinaloa, junto con otras cuatro personas, en el sur de Quintana Roo, cuando intentaban cruzar la frontera con Belice.

Los aprehendidos fueron trasladados al edificio de la Procuraduría General de la República (PGR) en la capital del país, instalaciones que inmediatamente fueron fuertemente resguardadas por el Ejército, la Marina y agentes de Seguridad Pública.

El detenido, Dioney Rolando MC, alias El Nene y originario de Belice, es identificado por algunos medios como empleado de Zurizaday VM, presunto operador del Cártel de Sinaloa en esta zona.

El pasado miércoles, después de las 10 de la noche circulaba sobre la avenida Álvaro Obregón en una camioneta Nissan Pick Up azul, junto con los chetumaleños Manuel MP y Abel A, el tamaulipeco Oscar Joel FD y Ulises R, de la Ciudad de México.

Al llegar a la altura del aeropuerto intentaron evadir el punto de revisión

Los detenidos en Chetumal, entre ellos un presunto operador del ‘cártel’ de Sinaloa en Chetumal, fueron trasladados a las instalaciones de la PGR en la Ciudad de México. montado por la Policía Municipal. Los agentes, en tres patrullas, emprendieron la persecución hasta que finalmente fueron detenidos en el puente de acceso a la aduana de Subteniente López.

No opusieron resistencia, pero al momento de ser interceptados algunos de ellos hicieron llamadas para pedir a sus contactos que fueran a rescatarlos.

De inmediato, los policías municipales solicitaron la activación de la Base de

Operaciones Mixtas y en cuestión de minutos llegaron al lugar 12 patrullas de la Policía Estatal, dos camionetas de la Policía Ministerial y un vehículo de la Marina, quienes escoltaron a los agentes junto con los detenidos hasta las instalaciones de la Policía Municipal.

Después de una hora en que fueron certificados, los detenidos salieron escoltados por un convoy de seguridad hasta las instalaciones de la PGR, donde se estableció un cordón con 15 patrul-

La sequía alimenta los incendios mortales de California Cerca de 12 mil bomberos luchaban este lunes contra las llamas descontroladas de 17 grandes incendios que avanzan alimentados por la severa sequía en California, donde ya han muerto al menos siete personas y decenas de miles de hectáreas han sido carbonizados. nia

Por AFP / Califor-

30 de Julio de 2018 El más fuerte de estos incendios, el Carr, ha matado a seis personas, entre ellos una señora de 70 años, Melody Bledsoe, y sus dos bisnietos de cuatro y cinco años, identificados como Emily Roberts y James Roberts, apodado Junior.

“Hablé con Junior por teléfono hasta que murió”, relató el esposo de Melody a CNN, recordando que sus últimas palabras fueron: “Vengan, sáquenme de aquí, el fuego está entrando por la puerta de atrás, ven abuelo”.

“He vivido en esta comunidad toda mi vida y nunca antes había visto un incendio forestal que provocara tanta destrucción”, confesó el supervisor del condado de Shasta, Leonard Moty, refiriéndose al incendio “Carr”, uno de los más grandes, que asola el norte de California.

Alyce Macken recordó que ella y su esposo Ted solo tuvieron unos pocos minutos para huir de su casa en la ciudad de Redding: “A las seis en punto de la mañana alguien llamó a la puerta, y el comisario nos dijo que teníamos 15 minutos para salir. Salimos en 10.

Estaba temblando”.

Macken, quien está jubilada, explicó a la AFP que huyó y se encontró con otros vecinos víctimas del pánico en un centro comercial cercano, desde donde vio cómo se incendiaba su casa.

Varios autos antiguos, parte de una colección, yacen en los escombros en un vecindario devastado el fuego cerca de Redding, California.

“Fue casi como un tornado de fuego que llegó por encima de la colina y barrió nuestra casa, barrió la casa de nuestro vecino”, explicó.

Las autoridades han evacuado ya a cerca de 38 mil vecinos en el condado de Shasta debido al incendio Carr, que ya ha arrasado cerca de 39 mil hectáreas y solo un 17 por ciento del fuego está controlado.

Una neblina espesa de humo que cubría un gran zona del norte de California provocaba problemas respiratorios y limitaba la visibilidad.

Según la Oficina de Servicios de Emergencia del Gobernador de California (Cal OES), 12nil bomberos de lugares tan lejanos como Florida y Nueva Jersey se han desplegado por todo el

estado.

El bombero Brian Hughes murió el domingo mientras luchaba contra el incendio de Ferguson, activo cerca del Parque Nacional de Yosemite.

Hughes fue sorprendido por la caída de un árbol mientras combatía el incendio, informó el Servicio de Parques Nacionales de Sequoia y Kings Canyon. “Lloramos su pérdida”, escribieron en Twitter.

El cadáver de una persona que ignoró las órdenes de evacuación del incendio Carr fueron encontrados en una residencia calcinada el domingo, informó el comisario del condado de Shasta, Tom Bosenko.

“El problema de los saqueos” El jefe de la Policía de Redding,

las, dos camionetas Hummer del Ejército, un vehículo de la Marina y otro de la Policía Ministerial.

De manera preliminar se dio a conocer que en el vehículo asegurado había dos armas largas y una corta, además de dosis de presunta droga.

Dioney Rolando y los otros 4 detenidos son identificados como trabajadores de Zurisaday V.M, alias El Zury, presunto operador en el sur de Quintana Roo de Roberto Nájera Gutiérrez, alias La Gallina, quien se presume controla la introducción de droga en la frontera sur del país para el Cártel de Sinaloa.

Roger Moore, advirtió que el saqueo se ha convertido en un problema desde que comenzaron las evacuaciones: “Con todos aquellos con los que entremos en contacto en esos vecindarios -si no tienen una razón legítima para estar allí, si no los arrestamos por saqueos, los arrestaremos por otra cosa”, advirtió.

Dos personas, un hombre y una mujer, fueron arrestados más tarde bajo sospecha de saquear hogares evacuados en Redding. La policía encontró artículos electrónicos apilados en la puerta de su casa, informó el departamento del comisario.

El incendio bautizado “Mendocino Complex”, con varios focos cercanos, arrasó más de 9 mil 800 hectáreas desde el viernes, y avanzaba rápidamente.

Solo el 10 por ciento del fuego está controlado.

El combate contra el incendio de Ferguson era más alentador, pues solo avanzó 800 hectáreas durante la noche, aunque desde el 13 de julio ya ha devastado 21 mil 700 hectáreas.

Según el Centro Nacional de Coordinación de Incendios (NIFC, en inglés), en todo Estados Unidos hubo 39 incendios importantes el domingo que calcinaron 97.000 hectáreas.

“Mucho más optimistas” Las autoridades se mostraban cada vez menos pesimistas en cuanto al desarrollo de las operaciones y el comportamiento del incendio Carr.

“Nos sentimos mucho más optimistas... estamos ganando terreno, ya no estamos a la defensiva”, explicó a los reporteros Bret Gouvea, comandante de CalFire.

De todas formas advirtió sobre lo impredecible de las condiciones meteorológicas.

Las previsiones para este lunes eran de mucho calor, alrededor de 38 grados, y poco viento.

5 AUG

2018

18 JAN

THE THEBELIZE BELIZETIMES TIMES 2015

ESPAÑOL

PRECIO DE AZÚCAR BAJA! Futuro incierto; Pobreza generalizada

Ciudad Belice: Martes 31 de Julio 2018 Por: Abi Mai Esta Semana, los cultivadores de caña de azúcar en el cinturón norte de caña de azúcar recibieron la mayor decepción para el año 2018. American Sugar Refinery (ASR) publicó una muy desalentadora estimación del precio de la caña de azúcar a través de una carta dirigida a varias asociaciones de cañeros.

El precio estimado para 2018 fue la base para el segundo pago de la safra que se le hizo a los agricultores este pasado miercoles, 1 de agosto.

El precio promedio de la caña de azúcar se encuentra en un nivel inferior al estándar de $ 45.47, de los cuales el 91% se debe al segundo pago. Esto calcula $ 41.37 de los cuales los agricultores ya recibieron $ 36.02 en el primer pago. La diferencia es un promedio de $ 5.35.

Dependiendo de la calidad entregada por los diversos grupos de cosecha, los agricultores recibirán pagos tan bajos como $ 3.81 y tan altos como $ 6.34 por tonelada. El precio más bajo se pagará a BSCFA 10, que incluye pueblos que incluyen Xiabe, San Joaquín, San Victor, Corozal y Douglas. El más alto se pagará a Cane Growers Project (CGP), una subsidiaria de ASR. Es importante señalar que en el pasado, se sabía que CGP producía la caña de azúcar de menor calidad.

Los agricultores están indignados por los precios tan bajos y, mientras luchan por aceptar la brutal realidad, se quedan preguntándose qué será de ellos en el futuro inmediato.

El pago no es suficiente para cumplir con los compromisos bancarios, no hay dinero para llevar a cabo actividades de fertilización y control de malezas. No hay dinero para pagar la educación de sus hijos. De hecho, no hay dinero para alimentar a sus familias y los bancos no podrán refinanciar debido a los bajos precios.

A $ 45.47 / por tonelada, los cañeros están en una gran pérdida.

El costo estimado de producción de una tonelada de caña de azúcar es de entre $ 48 y $ 52 por tonelada, dependiendo de la distancia al molino. Bajo este gobierno UDP, el precio pagado a los productores de caña continúa hundiéndose mientras

que el costo de los insumos sigue aumentando. Nunca en la historia de nuestra nación el costo del combustible ha sido tan alto. Nunca en la historia de nuestra nación todo el sector productivo se ha visto tan negativamente afectado. Mientras hablamos, algunos agricultores abandonaron el país mientras que otros están haciendo arreglos para irse a otros países como Perú, Bolivia y México.

Hoy, son los agricultores de caña de azúcar y sus familias a quienes les toca sufrir. Pero, por desgracia, los que

dependen de los agricultores de caña para el empleo también se quedan en el frío. Ellos y sus familias sentirán la caída de esta industria. Nunca en la historia de la industria los cañeros se han sentido tan inseguros.

Las ventas brutas de azúcar generaron $ 119.5 M de las cuales ASR les cobró a los cañeros $ 11 M y $ 11.5 por Ocean Freight y por manejo local respectivamente. ASR también dedujo los $ 4.5 M como

17

asignación de fabricación. Al deducir otros costos, lo que quedó es $ 87M de los cuales ASR aún obtuvo su 35% de participación, lo que deja a los agricultores con 65%, lo que se traduce en $ 56M para ser compartido entre los agricultores, lo que resulta en $ 45.47 / por tonelada.

Se puede deducir entonces que, dado que ASR ha deducido todos los costos, incluido el subsidio de fabricación, su participación del 35% es casi enteramente la ganancia neta, mientras que la participación del agricultor del 65% es mucho menor que la producción de caña de azúcar. Con tal fórmula, el dolor de la caída de los precios corre a cargo de los productores de caña de azúcar, mientras que es cierto que ASR siempre obtendrá grandes beneficios.

El futuro de la industria es muy incierto en este momento. Se espera que la producción del próximo año se reduzca aún más debido a la falta de insumos e inversiones. A medida que disminuya el rendimiento del agricultor, la producción de ASR se expandirá, lo que provocará el desplazamiento gradual de los agricultores locales de Belice y el inevitable control de la multinacional.

Lo que es muy cierto es que habrá un aumento generalizado del desempleo que traerá más pobreza, mayor miseria, mayor número de abandonos de la escuela secundaria y un aumento del crimen y la delincuencia .......... Y aún actualizado, el UDP no tiene un plan para la industria azucarera, no tienen un plan para la industria de cítricos ... no tienen un plan para todo el sector productivo.

La respuesta del Gobierno:, MÁS IMPUESTOS y AUMENTAR EL COSTO DE COMBUSTIBLE.

Supermercados retiran galletas Ritz por alerta de salmonela en EE. UU. Tanto la cadena de tiendas Walmart como Pricesmart confirmaron a Prensa Libre que realizan verificaciones de este producto para atender la alerta que el pasado 21 de julio emitió el fabricante Mondeléz Global LLC por una posible contaminación con salmonela.

Prensa Libre: Guatemala 31 de Julio de 2018 Al menos 16 variedades de las galletas Ritz deben ser retiradas del mercado, según informaron entidades de salud de diversos países, por la alerta que emitió el propio fabricante de estos productos.

A pesar que hasta el momento no se han reportado casos de personas contaminadas por estos productos, ambos supermercados realizan las acciones correspondientes.

“Walmart de México y Centroamérica en Guatemala tomará las acciones recomendadas por el fabricante como una medida preventiva con el propósito de ofrecerles a los clientes productos de calidad. Actualmente las áreas encargadas se encuentran verificando en conjunto con el proveedor para tomar las acciones correspondientes”, respondió la cadena de tiendas.

“El retiro del producto sí aplica para Guatemala. Para la presentación de Ritz Bits Cheese pack de 30 que tienen fechas de expiración de 3 de marzo del 2019 al 13 de abril del 2019, aplica. Vale la pena mencionar lo que el recall aclara

La preocupación del fabricante se centra en el ingrediente de suero en polvo, que uno de sus proveedores ha llamado a retirar debido a una potencial presencia de Salmonela.

que es de manera preventiva y que no se han tenido reportes de personas afectadas”, indicó Sergio Cuevas, gerente de Pricesmart.

Prensa Libre consultó a Compra Bien, uno de los distribuidores en Guatemala, quienes afirmaron, que, en su caso, únicamente importan producto de Perú o México e indicaron que continuarán vendiendo la marca.

Sin embargo, Perú es uno de los países donde se ha intensificado la campaña de alerta por un posible caso de salmonela en

estos productos.

Por su parte, autoridades de la Dirección de Atención y Asistencia al Consumidor (Diaco) informaron que se encuentran en la fase de Investigación e indicaron que sostendrán una reunión con delegados de la Procuraduría de Derechos Humanos y con la Oficina de Control de Alimentos.

“Estamos determinando la representación legal de la marca Nabisco en Guatemala para la comunicación oficial con la empresa”, dijo Carlos Vásquez, vocero de la Diaco.

18

THE BELIZE TIMES

2018

deserving parents with back to school expenses every week.

Many people pray that the Opposition will keep its promise to use the resources of the country to offer free education to the young minds and future leaders of Belize. That is already being done in some Caribbean countries with less natural resources and larger populations than ours.

Such a reality would a great achievement for Belize. From then onwards to paraphrase Martin Luther King “Our children will be judged for educational assistance from Minsters on the basis of their character and need and not on the basis of their parents political affiliation.”

Enough of the political games with government funds for education.

Political Games with Government Funds for Education

by Gilroy Usher, Sr. “Education is the foundation upon which we build our future.”

- Christine Gregoire Education is the key to a better life. It opens doors to countless new opportunities. Those truths explain why in the summer parents make every effort to get the necessary funds to have their children from kindergarten to university ready for the start of the new school year. In summer some parents work overtime, do extra jobs, have raffles, take out loans, or sell some of their assets to have their children ready for the new school year in September.

Try as they may ,due to the high cost of living hundreds of parents fall short of necessary funds for the start of the new academic year. As a last resort many of those parents turn to Ministers of the ruling party for relief with funding for their children’s education. In doing so they recall how those same ministers say they treat everyone equally with absolutely no regard for their political affiliation if any.

Most parents can’t get the needed assistance for their children’s education ,because a huge chunk of the government funds budget for education are reserved for the privilege few to study to become professionals such as doctors, attorneys, pilots , and accountants . Those are the children of Ministers and their relatives and cronies.

When average students are able to further their education with government assistance , many of them would cry if they knew some of the indignities their parents had to accept for such assistance. First parents (have to) register in most Ministers areas and remain in those divisions to benefit from school assistance with government funds. Secondly because some Ministers give mom or dad a little help yearly with their children’s education they are strictly prohibited from attending any event for a member of the Opposition . One most Ministers finds out that unwritten rule has been violated by a parent , the educational assistance is ended immediately .Cold and heartless action by a Minister but true. All that talk about equal treatment for everyone is hogwash.

Such victimization with access to funding for education is wrong ,because all of us UDPs, PUPs ,and independents pay the taxes that the Ministers are using

5 AUG

to control our lives for their own selfish gain.

Today many parents ,who can’t find jobs, face a daily struggle to provide their children with at least one meal for the day with no sight of funds for their booklists and other school supplies. Nevertheless one of the persons spearheading the campaign for a Minister to be the next UDP Standard Bearer for Port travels around the city in new government vehicle with free gasoline and free driver and offers persons $200.00 each to re-register in the Port Loyola Division. At that rate if they pay an average of 5 persons to re-register daily that amounts to $6,000.00 weekly . Just imagine how many needy students would benefit if that same $6,000.00 of taxpayers money is used to assist

NOTICE PUBLIC AUCTION SALE

BY ORDER OF THE CHARGEE HOLY REDEEMER CREDIT UNION LIMITED, a Licensed Public Auctioneer will sell on site the following property at the time as listed.

At No. 10 5th Street South, Corozal Town, Corozal District on Wednesday August 8, 2018 at 1:30 p.m.

SCHEDULE ALL THAT piece or parcel of land comprising 612.7 square yards being Parcel 731, Block 1 in the Corozal Central Registration Section situate at No. 10 5th Street South, Corozal Town, Corozal District, TOGETHER with a two-storey building of reinforced concrete construction, ground floor comprising 3,400 square feet containing five bedrooms, three bathrooms, living room, dining, kitchen and storeroom and the first floor comprising 2,800 square feet containing four bedrooms, four bathrooms, living room, dining, kitchen and storeroom, surrounded by a concrete verandah and patio, the freehold property of VIDHYA BAXANI, surety for SURAJ BAXANI. DATED this 25th day of July 2018

All sales are strictly cash and deemed final. For more information contact: HOLY REDEEMER CREDIT UNION LIMITED 1 HYDE’S LANE, BELIZE CITY, BELIZE Phone: (501) 224-5644 Fax: (501) 223-0738 Email: foreclosures@hrcubelize.org

5 AUG

ASR, GOD IS WATCHING By: Hilly Bennett, Voice of the Common Man Another bombshell has hit the cane farmers of the sugar belt up north. The second payment the 5,300 farmers received for the cane delivered at the mill for the sugar production of December 2017 to July 2018, was significantly less than what they expected. The price varied from $6.41 to as low as $3.81 per ton depending upon the quality of cane the mill received.

William Neal, who is the Communication and Government Affairs Officer assigned to BSI, placed the blame squarely on the world market price. The Honourable Godwin Hulse speaking for Government suggested that it was the yield.

The longstanding obstacle in the industry facing the caneros has been production cost as it relates to the fetch price on the global market.

In 1994 the realization that Belize’s agricultural sector was being bombarded from the forces of trade liberalization “drew concerns about the approaching storm.”

Experts identified three determinants for Belize to become competitive. i. economic policies and incentives ii. factors and infrastructure condition iii. Institution and programs (Boye, Briggs and Santos, 1996) It was proffered that economic policies can stimulate or reduce a nation’s ability to become competitive. In furtherance to policies, it was advised that they require government intervention, which includes incentive and investment policies, there was also the need for better infrastructure, which includes best roads for cane farmers to traverse their cane to the mill.

Today in 2018, the caneros are arguing out for the very same things recommended almost 24 years ago.

However, government representative continues to take the side-lined approach with Godwin Hulse putting up his hands on the air saying it is business.

To understand what is taking place today there is a need to return to the history of the sugar industry in the north in the late 1800s, when the first shipment of sugar to Europe was made. In 1857, one hundred barrels were exported on the ship “Byzantium” destined for Liverpool.

Sugar cane is a gramineous (grassy) plant considered a gift of the gods and daughter of Apollo. Its cultivation is seasonal with intermittent jobs for many. Sugar, considered the capable matron, was to be found in the cradle as well as on the kitchen table. Consequently, sugar cane became a mainstay of Belize’s economy’. However, the economy of sugar was, from the inception, capitalistic.

The Yucatecan refugees from the Caste War in Yucatan proved to the British companies that sugar could be exported shipping a hundred

19

THE BELIZE TIMES

2018

barrels of sugar in 1857 to Europe.

That was the beginning to the end for the cultivators and producers of sugar and the Mestizo having control of the emerging industry. It was at that juncture that the viability of growing sugar cane took root, and the white capitalist wrestled the control of the new industry from the Mestizo. They not only took over production of sugar cane, established plantation and rudimentary factories, but transformed farmers who were independent of agricultural wage labourers, a sentiment felt by some of the cane farmers today. The settlement’s treasurer in 1860 even made the prediction that the development of agriculture ventures in the settlement “will soon be valued by capitalist, now that the capabilities of the soil have been practically tested by small planters.” This is the reality that faced the caneros then and what the cane farmers are facing now. The domination of the sugar in-

dustry by white capitalist has always led to discontent with sugar workers on the other side fighting to be treated fairly. As early as 1869, the first recorded group action is mentioned in Nigel Bolland’s Colonialism and Resistance (1988) when 31 sugar workers went on strike “withdrawing their labour at a critical moment during the production process…”

In the early 1900s, the sugar industry dwindled because of the effects of the global market. The industry was revived when in 1935 the colonial government gave assistance to a group of business-men that established the Libertad factory at Pembroke Hall in the Corozal District. By 1937, sugar cane was being processed through the plant.

Probably, the most important action by any government throughout the history of Belize’s Sugar Industry occurred in the 1960s. George Price and the Peoples United Party gov-

ernment bought idle lands from Tate and Lyle. These lands were thereafter distributed among the farmers at low interest terms of payment. This policy decision of the Rt. Honourable George Cadle Price was for the creation of his version of a canero Co-operative in the north. Price transformed the former peasant/workers into independent farmers. They became the new Belizean “capitalist owning the means of sugar production.”

Quite notably, Bill Lindo pointed out that George Price went even further. A special formula was developed, which made the cane farmers partners with the manufacturer who milled and sold the raw #11 sugar. The 65% to the farmers and 35% to the factory, profit sharing was realized.

Another important development within the industry was the enactment in1959 of the Sugar Industry (control) Ordinance and the Regulatory Body, the Sugar Industry Control Board. The SICB’s responsibility was to issue licences and quotas regarding the delivery of sugar cane to the processing plant. Furthermore, the Belize Cane Continued on page 21

PUBLIC AUCTION SALE: CHATTELS

Belmopan Civic Center Bliss Parade, Belmopan, Cayo District By order of the Embassy of the United States of America, Licensed Auctioneer Noel Codd will sell the following chattels at Belmopan Civic Center, Bliss Parade, Belmopan, Cayo District on Saturday 18th August 2017 at 9:00 a.m. sharp.

Household Furniture Outdoor Fans & Ladder Household Appliances Automotive Equipment Lamps Ice Boxes Office Furniture Janitorial Supplies Office Supplies Electrical Supplies Shredder Light Fixtures Plastic Tables and Chairs Window Curtains Printers, Scanner & Projector Tools Computer Parts (CPU, Monitors, etc.) Small Medical Equipment Desk Phones, & Camera And many other attractive items…

All items will be available for viewing on Thursday and Friday 16th & 17th August 2018 between the hours of 9:00am to 4:00pm at the Belmopan Civic Center, Bliss Parade, Belmopan City. ***All interested bidders must be 18 years or older and will be required to register using a valid (picture) identification card on the day of the sale. Please note that all Rules and Agreements regarding this sale will be available for those viewing the Lots. Final viewing will be permitted one hour prior to the sale***

TERMS: STRICTLY CASH (CERTIFIED CHEQUES) NOEL CODD Office: 677-5184 Cell: 624-5184 Email: noelcoddauction@yahoo.com

20 2018 What is a Parliamentary Democracy?

5 AUG

THE BELIZE TIMES

There are several types of democracies, and will explain what a parliamentary democracy is by comparing it to a presidential democracy, which is the democracy used in the United States. In short, a parliamentary democracy is a system of government in which citizens elect representatives to a legislative parliament to make the necessary laws and decisions for the country.

This parliament should directly represents the people.

In contrast, to a presidential democracy, where the leader is called a President, and he or she is elected by citizens to lead a branch of government which is separate from the legislative branch. The United States has three branches of the government: the executive, the judicial, and the legislative. The President leads the executive branch of government.

Role of Parliamentary Democracy In a parliamentary democracy, you have a Prime Minister, who is first elected as a member of parliament, then elected Prime Minister by the other members of the parliamentary legislature. However, the Prime Minister remains a part of the legislature. The legislative branch makes the laws, and thus the Prime Minister has a hand in law-making decisions.

The Prime Minister works directly with other people in the legislature to write and pass these laws. In presidential democracy, they have a legislature, but they also have a president. He is separate from the legislature, so although he works with them, it is not as direct as if he were a Prime Minister. The laws that the legislature wants to pass must first go through the president; he can sign them into being or he can veto them. A President can go to the legislative branch and suggest laws, but they ultimately write them for his approval.

Furthermore, in any parliamentary systems, the legislature has the right to dismiss a Prime Minister at any time if they feel that he or she is not doing the job as well as expected. This is called a “motion of no confidence,” and is not as much of a drawn out process. In the U.S., impeachment is an extensive, formal process in where an official is accused of doing something illegal.

Some countries with a parliamentary system like Belize are constitutional monarchies, which still have a king and queen as head of state. A few other examples of these are the United Kingdom, Sweden, and Japan.

It is important to remember that both of these systems of government are democracies. Ultimately, the citizens who vote have the voice.

17 Top Pros and Cons of Parliamentary Democracy: A government which is structured as a parliamentary democracy allows for representatives to be selected from specific legislative or electoral districts. Once selected, these representatives come together as a House of Representatives structure of some type to create the necessary regulations and laws that help to keep the government and society protected and operational.

The primary difference with a parliamentary democracy, when compared to other types of democracy, is that the leader of the government is elected from the majority party within the House of Representative. It is the representatives who choose this leader, not the people of the country.

A parliamentary democracy may be setup as a constitutional monarchy as well, which means the monarch is the head of state rep-

resented by a Governor General, while the selected representative serves as the head of government.

They may also be parliamentary republics, where a

President is the head of state, though in a ceremonial position.

The top pros and cons of a parliamentary democracy are important to examine because

there are benefits and disadvantages which come with this societal structure.

Next week The Belize Times will present some key points in the pros and cons to think about.

Vacancies – The SOL Group Are you driven to succeed?

The Sol Group is the Caribbean’s leading independent energy company operating a petroleum, marketing, and distribution business across 23 territories in the Eastern and Western Caribbean, Puerto Rico, as well as Central and South America. Sol is an equal opportunity employer, and aims to create a world-class operation through the development and retention of talented Caribbean nationals across the region. Sol will provide challenging and meaningful careers to the right people.

Sol has an immediate vacancy for the following position at its office in Belize City.

Customer Service Representative.

Reporting to Marketing and Retail Sales Executive this position will be responsible for the following activities:  Process Third Party claims  Generate and issue customer invoices  Set-up, issue and replace Fleet Cards for customers  Key in data for manual Fleet Card transactions  Maintain records for all Fleet card transactions  Update Fleet Card tracker  Maintain and update Fleet Card Procedures Manual  Assist with credit management, through direct contact with customers and update customer records  Assist with organizing meetings and trainings for dealers, service station staff, and commercial customers  Assist in advising customers of price change and perform updates in Alvic system  Assist with the preparation of sales correspondence, fax, photocopy and filing of documentation  Act as back-up for Fleet Card Administrator or Sales Assistant during periods of absence  Health, Safety and Environment mind-set: maintain integrity of system and confidentiality  Act as liaison with Sol Network Administrator to resolve employees IT issues Qualification Requirements  Associate Degree in IT or Business and two years’ work experience Candidate Requirements  Good computer skills in Word, Excel and PowerPoint  Good telephone skills and able to communicate clearly  Able to deal tactfully & pleasantly with customers  Strong organizational skills & tidy  Basic knowledge of accounting and book-keeping procedures  Working knowledge of Spanish would be an asset SOL promotes a drug and alcohol free environment and all employees are subject to initial and random screenings. Sol Belize Limited provides a very attractive remuneration and benefits package.

For more information or to apply for this position, please visit our website at www.solpetroleum.com. Application forms can be downloaded and must be submitted along with your CV via email to careers@solpetroleum.com or by hand – addressed to: Human Resource Officer, Sol Belize Limited, Mile 2 ½ Phillip Goldson Highway, Belize City on or before 15 August, 2018 with email subject line: BZE, CSR – AUGUST 2018. Certified copies of relevant certificates will be requested for those applications under consideration.

Only short-listed candidates will be contacted for an interview.

SOL people think SOL people act SOL people lead

www.solpetroleum.com

5 AUG

2018

Irianna Leiva

CROWNED MISS EAST INDIAN BELIZE 2018 -2019 Corozal Town, Tuesday July 31, 2018 Attendees were mesmerized with the performances of the participants of the Miss East Indian cultural pageant which was held on July 28, 2919 in Corozal Town. The participants depicted their Indian heritage during their introductory dance, welcome, talents and the modelling of their glamourous sarees.

Mrs. Sapna Budrani , Interim President of NICH, gave the opening address as she reminded the audience of what a pageant entails to make it happen. The Indian dances, songs, musical renditions, monologues and skits portrayed the East Indian culture and engaged the audience in the theme of “Capturing Cultural Rhythm.” The president of COEICH Mrs. Sylvia Gilharry Perez elaborated on the East Indian presence in Belize and their contributions in the making of Belize. Mr. Andrew Rancharran , a well-known traditional snake bite healer was honoured post- humously for his great service to Belizeans.

The participants were Miss Irianna Leiva,from Orange Walk, Miss Brianna Martin from Corozal, Miss Kimberly Smith from Corozal and Miss Gween Smith from Cayo.

At the end of the pageant Miss Irianna Leiva from Orange Walk was crowned Miss East Indian Belize 2018 -2019. Her first place prize is a trip to Trinidad & Tobago to represent Belize at the Divali Nagar Queen pageant on November 4, 2018. She also won Miss Popularity, Miss Best Talent and Miss Best Talent Costume. First runner up was Miss Gwen Smith from Cayo who also won Miss Personality. Second runner up was Miss Briana Martin who also won Miss Photogenic.

COEICH (Corozal Organization of East Indian Cultural Heritage) is forever grateful to all the people who helped in making the event a success. Thank you so much in helping us to promote the East Indian culture.

NICH (National Institute of Culture and History, Tropics Airlines, Chicos Tortilla Factory, Atlantic Bank Corozal Branch, Belize Bank, Corozal Sports Council, Tricia Perez, Dorothy Party Rentals Idelmar & Sara Cienfuegos, Hon Pablo Marin, BEL, Jason Hall, Sumathi Restaurant, Corozal Town Council, Mrs. Elodia Peyrefite, Erwin Williams, Natalie Menzies, Vi’s Unique Floral Arrangement, Mr. Gulab Sharma, Thunderbolt water Taxi, Marie Charley, Odette’s Store, Belize Times, Clare Fernandez, D’s Pharmacy, Everest Indian Restaurant, Shekar Indian Restaurant, Codd Pharmaceutical, Belizean Drugstore, Dorla Williams,

21

THE BELIZE TIMES

DR’s Pharmacy, Mahi Beauty Salon, Madisco, Serendib Restaurant, Marian’’s Bayview Restaurant, PG Kitchen, Big Bite Restaurant, Dooney’s Store, VIP wireless, Courts Unicomer, Print Shop, Ritchie’s Restaurant, Ron G Movies, Tony’s Inn & Restau-

rant, Ryan Dougal, Bernadine Emanuel, Brenda Hall, Dorothy’s Party Rental, Melanie Bodden, Arun Hochandani, Mirador Hotel, Gaylord Store, Northern Glass Shop.

ASR, GOD IS WATCHING

Continued from page 19

Farmers Association (BSCFA) was established and imbued with negotiating powers on behalf of the caneros. The BSCAFA assisted with the organization of the cane deliveries and also made loans available to its members. In 1961, the Northern Cane Workers Union (NCWU) was formed instituting its bye laws and the first collective agreement which was drafted by V. H. Courtney. At the helm of the NCWU were two of the fiercest fighters for the cane farmers’ plight for greater participation in the production and wealth distribution attained from the industry. They were Mateo Ayuso and Jesus Ken, who believed that the canero should have been free from exploitation where the fruits of their labour profited a few. Most notably was the strike led by Ken on 3rd February 1962 that resulted in the burning of several of the company’s fields for wage increase which was granted thereafter. The strike ended on the 12 February 1962.

Then in December 1963 when Tate and Lyle were in negotiation to buy out the industry, Ken marched unto the compound with about 80 men armed with machetes, shotguns and other weapons demanding that lands be made available to the cane farmers. George Price, the leader of the Peoples United Party, agreed with the demands and Ken and caneros ended their standoff.

As mentioned before, the liberation and independence of the cane farmers were realized.

It was not until February 2009 that Belize’s sugar industry experienced such retaliatory engagement. BSI and Tate and Lyle introduced the dreaded core sampler which was to be utilized to determine the quality of cane delivered at the factory by the cane farmers. There were reservations about and opposition against the introduction of the new equipment. The caneros became disgruntled, and a protest was mounted. Tension rose, and a riot ensued. The famous Tillett buses of Orange Walk blocked the roads in and out of Orange Walk. Flames from burning tires filled the atmosphere and tempers flared. Prime Minister Dean Barrow stepped in, but with brute force and ordered the Police and military to quell the situation. The result was the fatality of Atanacio Guttierez, a villager of San Victor in the Corozal District.

This recants development is presently latent. However, information forth coming can be the powder keg to a fiery engagement as witnessed over the past. Oscar Alonzo made a call to the Business Hour on Monday night, charging that cane farmers were shafted. The European Union listed the price of plantation white at some two hundred dollars more than what ASR suggested. Apparently, ASR is conniving with Tate and Lyle the market-setter an arm of ASR. In my opinion, the war between the world of capital and the world of labour continue with the UDP government, transfixed as mere spectators. The intended result is to revert the farmers into plough sharers.

History has proven otherwise that the cane farmers will fight for what is just, even if it means leaving the Boardroom and standing in unity on the Tower Hill Bridge, as Oscar Alonzo once said, “God is watching” Remember Atanacio Guittierez.

22

THE BELIZE TIMES

THINKING OUT LOUD BY: KEVIN BERNARD

We are now into the second month of re-registration, a very critical exercise in preserving the democracy of our country. But unfortunately, I still get the feeling that our people are not being given all the information they need to understand just how important it is. Last week I realized there are still people who believe that if they have registered to vote previously, they do not need to do so again because they are already on the voters list. That is not so. The fact is that the old voters list has been discarded. Any Belizean who does not re-register will not be included on the new voters list. All residents who wish to vote – be they 18 or 118 – must go into the re-registration areas designated by the Elections and Boundaries Department and must re-register. It is as simple as that.

In Orange Walk East, we have been working very hard to assist residents to come out, explaining the documents they will need and directing them to the correct offices to get the process done. We are doing it the way it should be done, registering persons at the residences they live – no hanky-panky as is so often the case.

I keep insisting that if we want politics to change, and if want good governance and real development for our community, then we must do the right thing. For a very long time, those who lead us have done the wrong things, and we have all suffered for it.

I also want to stress that no resident of any constituency needs to wait on or depend on any politician, no matter who, to go re-register. No politician needs to be involved in the process. It is your right. It is your duty. It is your obligation to yourself and to your country. We are here to assist, because there are residents who do not know where to go, or may not have the transportation to reach where they must go. And it is right and good that we help them. We are here to do that.

But I want to encourage all residents who have not done so to go out get it done.

I know that there are many politicians who are turning the exercise into a political event, and they fully expect and demand that when they take residents to re-register, that new voter must then turn around and assure them of a vote. That is wrong. No resident has any obligation to any politician where votes are concerned. And certainly, no politician who provides you with transportation, food and a juice as you wait in line to re-register has any right to demand your loyalty where your vote is concerned. We need to do things differently.

I have heard the stories, particularly in Belize City and Cayo, where residents of various constituencies are being given money to go re-register.

In Port Loyola I understand there are

residents who are being offered up to $200 by an aspiring UDP candidate. That is incredible and just plain wrong. No politician should offer any money for re-registration. And no resident should demand or take any money to go re-register. Things like that have us in the position we are right now. It must stop.

I am asking my political colleagues, on both sides, to let us do things the right way. Let us assist our people to re-register. But let us not offer or expect anything in return. And let us allow the exercise to do what it was intended to do.

I know, beyond a doubt, that there are UDP operatives who are corrupting the exercise. I know that there are persons still being reg-

5 AUG

2018 istered in empty lots, and houses where as many as 50 people are registered. I know that there are people registering in places they do not live. I know that there are operatives assisting them to do just that.

I know that those operatives are assisting those that are believed to be UDP, while subjecting those believed to be PUP to undue scrutiny. I know that in cases where birth certificates are needed – the birth certificates for persons believes to be UDP will be expedited, while those believed to be for PUPs will be delayed or lost forever.

We need to stop. That’s all. We need to stop. For the sake of our people and for the sake of our country.

Let’s get re-registration done right.

5 AUG

2018

THE BELIZE TIMES

GILLNETS ARE WE DROWNING OUR FUTURE?

If we fish sustainably, we can always depend on the sea as a source of food and livelihoods.

Protected species like bonefish, tarpon and permit support a $100 million-dollar sports fishing industry and employ 2,500 guides. But these species are by-catch in gillnets. So are they really “protected”?

Responsible fisheries management means all the data being used to make decisions is made public and can be validated. Uninformed management decisions lead to collapsed fisheries. The 15,000 Belizeans who depend on fishing can’t afford to lose their benefits.

Oceana’s position is that the 169 licensed gillnetters can be supported in transitioning to sustainable gear and alternatives. The process of identifying the areas of interest for alternatives and support necessary to replace this seasonal income must be led by the fishers.

Phasing out gillnets does not mean anyone will have to stop fishing. It would stop the use of a destructive fishing gear and promote the use of selective gear-gear that allows for live release of non-target species.

Gillnets are banned in several places but because of a lack of enforcement and monitoring, the nets are being used in places they shouldn’t be and in ways already prohibited by law. A phase-out of gillnets would make enforcement easier.

Gillnets are the gear of choice for illegal fishers. Illegal fishing is undermining national efforts at sustainability. Phasing out gillnets would ensure that Belizeans are able to benefit from Belizean resources.

23

24

THE BELIZE TIMES

5 AUG

2018