Belize Times March 6, 2022 - Bridging the Regions

The Belize Times

1

6 MAR

THE BELIZE TIMES

2022

Established 1957

6 MARCH 2022 | ISSUE NO: 5290

The Truth Shall Make You Free

facebook/belizetimespress | $1.00

BRIDGING

THE REGIONS Together our subregions (Caribbean and Central America) have 60 million people and a collective GDP of 400 Billion dollars. The possibilities of intraregional trade are clear. The opportunities for cross regional investments are obvious. For sure, if we want it to be so, a common future awaits us.

Let’s grasp it, now, today.

The longer we delay the effective activation of our partnership, we miss valuable opportunities to fully realize our development and to protect and enhance our shared neighborhoods. - PM John Briceño in his address to the Caricom-SICA Summit at San Pedro

Pg. 2 PM BRICEÑO: “TIME HAS COME TO RESTORE” “full 10% to public officers and teachers”

PlanBelize for the People

UDP LOSE AGAIN PM BRICEÑO IS RIGHT Pg. 5

“personal and economic freedoms”

Curfew is Gone Masks Only Indoors

PLANBELIZE COMMITMENT $5 MINIMUM WAGE IS NEXT

HAPPY WOMEN’S MONTH: #BREAKTHEBIAS

Pg. 2

02 2

BRIDGING

THE REGIONS Together our subregions(Caribbean and Central America) have 60 million people and a collective GDP of 400 Billion dollars.

The possibilities of intraregional trade are clear.

The opportunities for cross regional investments are obvious. For sure, if we want it to be so, a common future awaits us.

Let’s grasp it, now, today.

The longer we delay the effective activation of our partnership, we miss valuable opportunities to fully realize our development and to protect and enhance our shared neighborhoods. - PM John Briceño in his address to the Caricom-SICA Summit Regional leaders arrived at San Pedro at the end of February 2022 and the beginning of March.

The Summit was anticipated for many reasons.

It was probably the largest regional meeting since the pandemic in March of 2020. Belize was hosting and the implications were urgent. The third day of the summit which saw Ukraine, Climate Change, Regional Security and other discussed was to bring generally Spanish-speaking Central America with generally the English-speaking Caribbean.

The histories are different but time has a way of evening the odds. PM Briceño spelled out the opportunity that the countries have to fortify their economies and their livelihoods.

The ex-PM Harper, from Canada, had said that Belize could be a “hub.” At this Summit, Belize was playing the hub role masterfully in the visionary manner of PM Briceño. It is easy for him to represent Belize as he knows his people are behind him.

“It is important for Central America to understand what vulnerability means to the Caribbean.

Likewise, it is important for the Caribbean to understand the profound

6 MAR

THE BELIZE TIMES socio-economic impacts of climate change and natural disasters on Central American societies which already suffer deep inequalities.” summed up PM Briceño.

HEADS OF GOVERNMENT AND OTHER HEADS OF DELEGATION AT THE 33RD CARICOM INTER-SESSIONAL MEETING, SAN PEDRO, AMBERGRIS CAYE, BELIZE, 1 - 2 MARCH 2022 and on the 3rd of March the Caricom-SICA Summit took place. SICA of course is the Central American Integration System.

Present were: H.E. Irfaan Ali, President, Guyana; Hon Roosevelt Skerrit, Prime Minister, Dominica; H.E. Chandrikapersad Santokhi, President, Suriname; Chairman, Prime Minister Hon. John Antonio Briceño, Belize; Dr Hon Keith Mitchell, Prime Minister, Grenada; Hon Mia Mottley, Prime Minister, Barbados; Hon Phillip Davis, Prime Minister, The Bahamas; Hon Kamina Johnson-Smith, Foreign Minister, Jamaica; Hon Alva Baptiste, Foreign Minister, Saint Lucia; Hon Natalio Wheatley, Deputy Premier, British Virgin Islands; Hon Charles Washington Misick, Premier, Turks and Caicos Islands; Hon Joseph E. Farrell, Premier, Montserrat, H.E. Ariel Henry, Acting President and Prime Minister, Haiti; Senator the Hon. Dr Amery Browne, Foreign Minister, Trinidad and Tobago; Hon Montgomery Daniel, Deputy Prime Minister, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Vice President, Dr. Felix Ulloa, El Salvador; Presidente Carlos Alvarado Quesada, Costa Rica; President Aljandro Giammattei, Guatemala. Other countries were represented only via Zoom. The Crisis in Ukraina or the Russian invasion took away the possibility of UN Secretary General Antonio Gutteres from coming in person. He was only present virtually.

2022 FIVE DOLLAR MINIMUM WAGE NEXT Belmopan. March 2, 2022 - The Ministry of Rural Transformation, Community Development, Labour, and Local Government is pleased to announce the appointment of a Minimum Wage Task Force to oversee the implementation of the five-dollar minimum wage commitment of Plan Belize. The task force conducted its inaugural meeting today at the ministry’s conference room in Belmopan.

On November 25, 2021, Cabinet requested that the ministry develops a plan for the gradual implementation of the government’s commitment to a five-dollar minimum wage. The current minimum wage is $3.30 per hour, and it was phased in over a five-year period between 2007 and 2012, with the last raise taking effect on May 8, 2012. Ten years later, the existing minimum wage for unskilled workers and workers who are engaged in elementary occupations is being reassessed. In this context, the task force will develop a plan to institute the government’s commitment to a five-dollar minimum wage.

The government recognizes that any increase to the present minimum wage would have implications for various sectors. As a result, the phased minimum wage increases must be linked to productivity growth and Belize’s competitiveness. With stakeholder input, careful consideration will be given to the impact of these increases on the various sectors of the economy in the short-, medium- and long-term.

The task force is comprised of seven persons representing workers, employers and the government. Ms. Cindy Thompson, representing the University of Belize, chairs the task force. The other members are: • Mr. Daniel Gutierrez, Belize Chamber of Commerce and Industry • Ms. Carlesha Francisco, National Bank of Belize • Ms. Fayne Nicasio, Ministry of Economic Development • Mr. Luis Luke Martinez, National Trade Union Congress of Belize • Ms. Candice Soutar, Central Bank of Belize • Ms. Anne Marie Thompson, Ministry of Rural Transformation, Community Development, Labour and Local Government.

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

José Jiménez 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

6 MAR

2022

THE BELIZE TIMES

03 3

EDITORIAL

T

BELIZE MUST GET IT DONE!

he Caribbean Community (Caricom) Summit and its meeting with the Central American Integration System (SICA) in San Pedro Town has brought home many regional leaders in the star-studded conglomeration. The who is who of regional politics is in attendance and it is expected that the adoption of Joint Declaration of San Pedro will be the result of this high-level stellar gathering. This declaration will seek to strengthen cooperation in areas such as socio-economic matters, trade, investment, tourism, public health, and Climate Change. This congregation of Heads of Government are also expected to sign a Revised CARICOM-SICA Plan of Action. The United Nations Secretary of State had to cancel his visit because of other more pressing and urgent matters. However, President of Argentina H.E. Alberto Fernandez is expected to speak on regional and hemispheric affairs in his role as President of the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC).

Caricom has been around in some version or another since 1973. They have not managed to fully integrate into the Caribbean Single Market and Economy (CSME) forty-nine years later, not by a long shot. The CSME is their goal, this would provide the entire region with stability, opportunities for trade, investment, and immigration. It would also more fully integrate labour and capital markets as well as pool resources to make delivery of public services efficient and more effective. Preferential trade agreements with major trade partners such as the United States of America and the European Union have all but disappeared. The CSME would represent a more solid trade footing on which to stand and negotiate within the dynamic competitive global market. There are perhaps many reasons why CARICOM has missed every one of its self-imposed deadlines. Nation News’ Rickey Singh believes that “their failures are rooted in the lack of collective political will to overcome parochialism and a narrow sense of nationalism in favour of a shared vision of one people, one market, one Caribbean – to which they all claim commitment.” Ironically this statement was published in 2010 and twelve years later sadly it rings true, we are no closer than we were then to full integration which was to happen in 2015, seven years ago.

The World Bank uses GDP per Capita to classify 5 CARICOM countries as high income, 8 as upper middle income, and 1 as least developed country. Belize however has a debt to GDP lower than Barbados which is classified as high income. Barbados has a debt to GDP ratio of 156.76% while Belize’s is only 113.85%. In 2020, Belize performed better than some of the high-income countries as their decline in GDP was only 14.1% while countries such as The Bahamas and Barbados had their GDP fall by more than 17%. It is Belize’s turn to shine. There is no more time for lofty and pretty speeches that mean nothing when our region is swimming in debt and poverty. It is a time to get down and get it done! Our Prime Minister holds the Chairmanship of the CARICOM and the Secretary-General is our very own Dr. Carla Barnett. Our economy has been brought back like Lazarus from the dead.

We have been innovative and bold in our environmental investments, economic plan and post-pandemic recovery. Now it is left to Belize, to lead the way and get the job done for CARICOM!

04 4

THE BELIZE TIMES

EDITORIAL

L

6 MAR

2022

en Español

¡BELICE DEBE HACERLO!

a Cumbre de la Comunidad del Caribe (Caricom) y su reunión con el Sistema de Integración Centroamericana (SICA) en la ciudad de San Pedro ha traído a casa a muchos líderes regionales en el conglomerado de estrellas. El “quién es quién” de la política regional está presente y se espera que la adopción de la Declaración Conjunta de San Pedro sea el resultado de esta reunión estelar de alto nivel. Esta declaración tratará de reforzar la cooperación en áreas como los asuntos socioeconómicos, el comercio, la inversión, el turismo, la salud pública y el cambio climático. También se espera que esta congregación de Jefes de Gobierno firme un Plan de Acción revisado CARICOM-SICA. El Secretario de Estado de las Naciones Unidas tuvo que cancelar su visita debido a otros asuntos más apremiantes y urgentes.

Sin embargo, se espera que el Presidente de Argentina, S.E. Alberto Fernández, hable sobre asuntos regionales y hemisféricos en su calidad de Presidente de la Comunidad de Estados Latinoamericanos y Caribeños (CELAC).

La Caricom existe en una u otra versión desde 1973. Cuarenta y nueve años después no han conseguido integrarse plenamente en la Economía de Mercado Único del Caribe (CSME), ni remotamente. El CSME es su objetivo, ya que proporcionaría a toda la región estabilidad, oportunidades de comercio, inversión e inmigración. También integraría más plenamente los mercados de trabajo y de capitales, así como pondría en común los recursos para que la prestación de los servicios públicos fuera más eficiente y eficaz. Los acuerdos comerciales preferenciales con los principales socios comerciales, como Estados Unidos y la Unión Europea, prácticamente han desaparecido. El CSME representaría una base comercial más sólida sobre la que situarse y negociar en el dinámico y competitivo mercado mundial. Quizá haya muchas razones por las que la CARICOM ha incumplido todos los plazos que se ha autoimpuesto. Rickey Singh, de Nation News, cree que “sus fracasos tienen su origen en la falta de voluntad política colectiva para superar el parroquialismo y un estrecho sentido del nacionalismo en favor de una visión compartida de un pueblo, un mercado, un Caribe, con la que todos afirman estar comprometidos”. Irónicamente, esta afirmación se publicó en 2010 y doce años después, lamentablemente, sigue siendo cierta: no estamos más cerca que entonces de la plena integración que debía producirse en 2015, hace siete años.

El Banco Mundial utiliza el PIB per cápita para clasificar a 5 países de la CARICOM como países de ingresos altos, 8 como países de ingresos medianos altos y 1 como países menos adelantados. Belice, sin embargo, tiene una deuda con el PIB inferior a Barbados, que se clasifica como de ingresos altos.

Barbados tiene una relación deuda-PIB de 156,76%, mientras que la de Belice es de solo 113,85%.

En 2020, Belice obtuvo mejores resultados que algunos de los países de altos ingresos, ya que su disminución del PIB fue de solo 14,1%, mientras que países como Bahamas y Barbados tuvieron una caída de su PIB de más del 17%. A Belice le toca brillar. Ya no hay tiempo para discursos altivos y bonitos que no significan nada cuando nuestra región está nadando en la deuda y la pobreza. Ha llegado el momento de ponerse manos a la obra. Nuestro primer ministro preside la CARICOM y la Secretaria General es nuestra Dra. Carla Barnett. Nuestra economía ha resucitado como Lázaro de entre los muertos. Hemos sido innovadores y audaces en nuestras inversiones medioambientales, en nuestro plan económico y en la recuperación tras la pandemia. Ahora le toca a Belice liderar el camino y hacer el trabajo para la CARICOM.

6 MAR

2022 UDP LOSE AGAIN PM BRICEÑO IS RIGHT The remnants of the UDP have being trying all they could to remain relevant. If the PUP breathes out, there goes the UDP remnants saying the PUP should have breathed in. THe UDP is trying too hard to quash planBelize from breathing out life. So, when ex-Attorney General and Barrow’s Minister of Everything—albeit rejected and unelected—reinforced chair man Peyrefitte was all upset. The people of Belize cannot win.

The people of Belize were supposed to pay another company’s higher prices. The irony of the matter is that Barrow enshrined BTL in the constitution BUT BTL is still a private company. Only Barrow can come up with such legal mumbo jumbo and factual but not legal guilt.

The UDP placed a number of oral and written submissions to Justice Sonya Young as part of the judicial review application brought by often rejected Michael Peyrefitte, against Prime Minister John Briceño.

The challenge was against government’s wise decision to grant a contract to Smart for the provision of Microsoft 365 licenses to various government departments. Rejected Peyrefitte was seeking to embarrass the PM for a made-up bias but as we can see now, the Prime Minister is right. There is NO quashing of the contract that made in a fair spirit of competition with the other provider who in the past was used to getting the contracts automatically it seems.

Peyrefitte must be tired of trying to fault the planBelize government which in the meantime is getting awarded internationally for its transparency and accountability.

For context: it was widely reported that the contract, previously held by our national telecom company, Belize Telemedia Limited, is worth 3.37 million dollars and is for the provision of Microsoft 365 licenses for government computers. The claimant, represented by former Prime Minister, Rt. Hon. Dean Barrow, is asserting that the bidding process that led to the awarding of this contract was flawed, since the bid was not vetted by the Contractor General, and that Smart entered the selective tendering at a late point in the bidding process. The Prime Minister rebutted that the contractor general has reviewed and has given the green light.

The court has thrown out the claim that the process of awarding the contract was tainted with bias. There was no bias and the contract moves ahead. The government’s lawyer had insisted that Smart offered the lowest bid and that it was on this basis that the company was granted the contract. The judge now has sided with the business idea that competition is a pillar of our system and it is in public interest.

The PM has said, “Our Government has admitted that they did not go to the Contractor General, so basically all that is going to be is that we’re going to go to the Contractor General for him to take a look at … but in the report that the Contractor General gave he was very clear that all the process was followed, that it was open, that it was transparent and that Speednet did give the best offer to the government.” And, the judge has side with that opinion.

Word to the wise...take a slow walk to the Ellysian. The UDP is dead!! Quit defending the indefensible.

THE BELIZE TIMES

05 5

UNDP and the Global Fund supports the MOHW through the Delivery Covid ICU Medication, HIV/Syphilis Kits and Taq-Path PCR Tests Belmopan, March 1, 2022 – In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in partnership with the Ministry of Health and Wellness and the National AIDS Commission, under the framework of the Global Fund project titled “Building Resilience Through Innovation

and National Accountability for the HIV and TB Response in Belize.” Conducted a handing over activity in Belmopan yesterday. The donation included 2,000 individual HIV/Syphilis tests valued at USD4,800, Covid Intensive Care Unit medication valued at USD10,681.9, along with 5 Taqpath Covid 19 CE-IVD RT-PCR Kits valued at USD35,355. All goods are valued at USD50,836.00.

The supplies were officially handed over to the Minister of Health & Wellness, Hon. Kevin Bernard by Mrs. Denise Antonio, Resident Representative for the United Nations Development Programme in Jamaica, Belize, Bermuda, Cayman Islands, The Bahamas and Turks and Caicos. Mrs. Antonio assured the Ministry of UNDP’s continued commitment to health sector strengthening and national pandemic response.

Today’s contribution was secured with finances from The Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria.

“UNDP Extends a special thanks to The

Global Fund who has provided an additional USD526,486 in funding for Covid-19 support in Belize. This intervention strengthens the MoHW expanded capacities for the early diagnosis and treatment of COVID 19 disease in Belize.

Minister Bernard expressed appreciation on behalf of the MOHW for the donation and partnership. “As we continue to work amidst a fourth wave of the COVID 19 pandemic and its variants into Belize and a growing concern over the most recent and highly infective OMICRON variant our teams remain highly vigilant at this non ending epidemic. The most important task of enhanced surveillance, early testing and diagnosis are crucial elements of the national response.”

This donation comes at an opportune time as it compliments what we have for the clinical management of COVID 19 in our facilities and it also highlights the further need for increased vaccination in our population. The MoHW furthermore stresses the need for self-responsibility in the practice of all key public health and social measures that keeps us safer.

6 06

6 MAR

THE BELIZE TIMES

2022

MINISTRY OF HEALTH & WELLNESS VACANCY NOTICE

MINISTRY OF HEALTH & WELLNESS VACANCY NOTICE

Applications are invited from suitably qualified persons to fill the post of Assistant Procurement Manager, Central Medical Stores, Ministry of Health & Wellness.

Applications are invited from suitably qualified persons to fill the post of Procurement Officer, Central Medical Stores, Ministry of Health & Wellness.

Principal Duties: Ensure assigning and delivery of requisitions within the CMS scheduled delivery to health facilities countrywide. Track stock levels and report none delivery of tender items to Procurement Manager for sourcing ensuring availability.

Principal Duties:

Salary Pay Scale: 11 of $19,301 x 890 - $36,211 per annum

Salary Pay Scale: 10 of $18,367 x 878 - $35,048 per annum

Qualification:

Qualification:

Associates Degree in Applied Science - Pharmacy Registered Pharmacist Minimum 5years Experience in Hospital Pharmacy

Deadline:

Deadline is March 14th, 2022 Application with two (2) references on professional experience and copies of qualifications and a Curriculum Vita are to be submitted to: -

cy Deadline:

Associates Degree in Applied Science Registered Pharmacist Minimum 5years Experience in Hospital Pharma-

Deadline is March 14th, 2022 Application with two (2) references on professional experience and copies of qualifications and a Curriculum Vita are to be submitted to: Chief Executive Officer Ministry of Health & Wellness Belmopan ceosecretary@health.gov.bz

Note: Please visit www.health.gov.bz to view the copy of the Terms of Reference for this vacant post.

Ensure assigning and delivery of requisitions within the CMS scheduled delivery to health facilities countrywide. Track stock levels and report none delivery of tender items to Procurement Manager for sourcing, ensuring availability.

Chief Executive Officer Ministry of Health & Wellness Belmopan ceosecretary@health.gov.bz Note: Please visit www.health.gov.bz to view the copy of the Terms of Reference for this vacant post.

CARTOON

6 MAR

07 7

THE BELIZE TIMES

2022 Prime Minister

HON. JOHN BRICEÑO’S

National Address on Cabinet Retreat February 28, 2022

Greetings from San Pedro where the Summit is about to start, but I have taken time out to report to you on Cabinet’s first retreat which we held last week.

My ministers and I held in-depth discussions on the draft budget for fiscal year 2022 – 2023. We reviewed the IMF’s concluding statement issued at the end of its recent Article IV consultation. While the IMF hailed our impressive economic performance, they cautioned that economically, we are not out of the woods yet. Therefore, the Cabinet approved a budget that is prudent and pragmatic. We will emphasize an ambitious social policy agenda which centres on bringing relief to the more vulnerable among us, expanding the NHI program while continuing to rebuild the Belizean economy in partnership with the private sector, the Unions, and non-governmental actors.

We received a detailed report from the Ministerial Team which met with the joint unions. Significant progress was made in those discussion towards finding a path to restoring benefits for public officers and teachers. After careful deliberation, Cabinet has settled our position on these matters, and we will inform the Unions of the elements of that position which includes much needed pension reform. More importantly, we believe we have found a workable compromise which includes restoring the full 10 percent to public officers and teachers.

On COVID-19, the Cabinet has decided that it is time to re-balance responsibility in the fight against COVID-19. For some two years, the Government has responded to the pandemic by embarking on a massive public health campaign, securing hundreds of thousands of vaccines, heavily imposing restrictions on personal freedoms and curtailing social and economic activities. The Cabinet has decided that the time has come to restore personal and economic freedoms, while encouraging everyone to act responsibly.

Effective 1st March, the curfew will be lifted. The Minister of Health will provide more details of the process by which we will lift all measures during the month of March as we move towards normalcy on 1st April 2022.

We continue to urge Belizeans to get vaccinated and for those who have not yet been boosted, we urge you to do so.

My Cabinet recognizes that there is a pressing need to address social issues such as the rising cost-of-living increases. While price increases are due largely to external factors, we believe that there are steps that can be taken by government to ease the hardship. We are actively reviewing the basket of goods on which tax relief can be granted, will vigorously increase enforcement of price controls, and will adopt measures to curb price gouging.

Another important issue discussed during the Cabinet Retreat was governance. In this regard, there was a strong sense that constitutional reform is needed to strengthen democracy in Belize. The Constitution is designed around a dominant Cabinet, and two main political parties. These structures, which were designed in the previous century, must be reviewed and reformed to meet the needs of a more democratic Belize. To this end, a People’s Constitutional Commission will be appointed to undertake this major task of constitutional reform and is expected to complete its work in 15 months.

Since taking office we have done what was necessary to rescue Belize from financial disaster, protected Belizeans from the COVID-19 pandemic and, we started to implement our social justice agenda set out in Plan Belize. We will continue the work and press on with delivering on our promise to build a nation where everybody wins.

I thank you.

Keynote Address

PRIME MINISTER HON. JOHN BRICEÑO World Ocean Summit

Distinguished Colleagues, Ladies and Gentlemen.

I am excited to be with you today, especially, so I can tell you how Belize has taken ambitious steps to meeting the 2030 targets, which we know are critical to protecting the health of our ocean and people. Like the world’s forests, the global ocean has been referred to as the lungs of the planet – helping to produce the oxygen we breathe and playing an important role in regulating the Earth’s climate.

Ladies and gentlemen, the ocean accounts for 90% of habitable space on Earth. Our oceans produce 50% of the oxygen we breathe, and is the source of food and income for more than 3 billion people globally. For sure, you have heard these statistics before, but it is worth repeating them to emphasize that protecting the health of the ocean is not something we could do, it is something we must do to secure the wellbeing of people, all people. As a Small Island Developing State and a member of the wider global community, Belize recognizes the need to preserve the functional integrity of our Oceans through targeted protection.

Other human-caused pressures - such as overfishing, marine litter and destruction of marine habitats – further compounded by warming oceans are already contributing to an unprecedented loss of marine biodiversity, threatening the highly unique ecosystems they support and the billions of people who rely on it for food security. Recent global assessments have highlighted that to jointly tackle climate change and biodiversity loss, natural ecosystems must be protected and restored, alongside the immediate, far-reaching decarbonization of the global economy. The ocean offers numerous untapped and powerful opportunities to build climate resilience via its protection and restoration in coastal areas. Research also shows that large marine protected areas can restore marine ecosystems threatened by overfishing and climate change, support and inspire the revitalization of nations’ cultures, and sustain healthy communities and economies. Marine Protected Areas should, therefore, be considered another tool in the toolbox when tackling the “Twin Crises” of Climate Change and biodiversity.

Here in Belize, we are doing our part to protect the ocean, and I am proud to lead a Government that is advancing on innovative and ambitious policies to ensure that current and future generations can benefit from the resources of the ocean.

We know that the ocean is one interconnected, global system. That means we need global collaboration and agreements to protect the ocean and sustainably manage its resources. Belize is working with other countries through the Global Ocean Alliance and High Ambition Coalition for Nature and People to support a 30by30 target as part of a new and ambitious Global Biodiversity Framework. We also know that although global agreements can provide common frameworks for action, all of us – governments, businesses, and citizens – need to take concrete steps to meet our ambitions. My Government has therefore committed to implementing the 30by30 target domestically and protect 30% of our ocean. Belize have already protected some 23% of our territorial seas and plans to meet this target well before 2030!

Globally, we have already lost a third of our mangroves and half of all coral reefs. We must turn these trends around and we must do so with new urgency and new solutions. My government is seeking to deliver against this ambition through the world’s largest debt restructuring for marine conservation which we announced in partnership with The Nature Conservancy in November 2021. Like most Small Developing States, the realization of these national and global targets has been constrained by the lack of financing. The government of Belize has successfully negotiated the single largest Blue Bond Initiative. This creative and innovative approach to allow for national recovery and improved fiscal management led Belize along a path that joins debt management, fiscal prudence and the robust marine resource management and conservation. This Blue Bonds for Ocean Conservation deal is truly impactful for Belize – especially during a tremendously difficult time for our economy.

The Blue Bonds will help us support the vibrant marine life that resides in Belize. It will help us maintain the rich biodiversity that is crucial for the health of our ecosystems and the planet. All this while creating a positive impact on the livelihoods of resource users and ensuring community resilience by increasing investment in conservation. In particular, the transaction we announced in November 2021 restructured 553 million US dollars of Belize’s debt, leading to an overall debt reduction of 250 million US dollars, more than 200 million US dollars in debt savings and an estimated 180 million US dollars in conservation funding over the next 20 years. This is not small change – it is transformative for our people, our ocean, and our economy. Since November 2021, my Government has made significant advancements in creating the enabling environment for the successful delivery on the Blue Bond Agreement.

I’m pleased to announce that following the deal closure, a Blue Bonds and Project for Finance Permanence Unit has been established within my office that will be responsible for the successful implementation of the Blue Bonds agreement and the design of a new conservation financing model. We are on our way in delivering our commitments well within the prescribed timeframe in the Agreement. We have also already launched the all-important participatory and inclusive stakeholder process that will ensure this project is owned by the people of Belize and deliver benefits to communities along the entire coast. So, while we certainly aren’t done yet, I am proud of the progress already made and assure you that we will continue this work as a part of our national and global commitment in securing a healthy ocean for all. As the first country in Latin America to implement a Blue Bonds deal, we are proud to be pioneers in this work. By recuperating and consolidating our natural places and ecosystems, we can secure productive and sustainable fisheries, grow our nature-based tourism sector, and strengthen our natural resilience to climate change—a crucial issue for Belize’s largely coastal population.

I call on others to join us to conserve the ocean for Belize and for all of mother earth.

Thank You

8 08 8 OUT

!

Dear Editor, I went to Chetumal...just to enjoy and to see if Patt’s hench person said the truth of being ill-treated at the border... NOTHING like that....Ahead is my ex-

perience.

Two weeks after the border opening and a few days after Patt’s henchman bawled to the world, I travelled to Chetumal with my family.

This was after 23 months of being locked in due to Covid-19. Was it any different? Sincerely, most of the time, I forgot that the pandemic was still on.

I want to say that I am one of the majority on Earth that still has not tested positive. I am scared of the virus and I have taken care of myself with masks, staying home and vaccinating.

I continued doing all that in Mexico...except for staying home.

I noticed people being a little lax there just as in Belize but otherwise the pandemic was not obvious. Mexicans had to be careful as well.

Crossing into Mexico from our side, a slip of paper which basic and stamped ‘MOHW’ was given on our side. The immigration officer said to present this at the other side. Not exactly...I was not asked for this. The traveller should full it and return it filled out on the return. Without this slip they would swab for 100dollars. This paper supposedly proved that you did NOT overnight in Chetumal. It works very well for law abiding citizens. Now, we can stay for three days I hear.

I have NEVER stayed three days...but it does make loads of sense.

The Mexican side....is relatively the same.

One thing I noticed though was that the passport is scrutinized much closer than before. Also, the car search section was really the same going out...with a green light getting you searched and red... well...got your glove compartment and trunk opened. Law-abiding citizens with normal items need not worry. The fumigation charges are still there. Returning, there is a check at the same spot for vehicles. This check was not there before. If you ask me, this helps Belize in sifting out the bad guys. I brought in a few items and these were ignored. Would they have charged me if I “exported more”? The word is that one one items is no problem.

I am a frequent traveler to Chetumal...I would say that in 10 years I filled a passport of stamps. It is worth the while. I notice that the store shelves in Belize do have MANY items bought in Mexico. Grocers who love Belize can compete by giving us comparable prices and then we will not buy these in Chetumal. Business in Belize can also side with Belizeans by coming out against the BCCI and the Port of Belize who are suing Belizean workers who stood up against their callous practices.

Chetumal has been in Belizean lives forever.

Businesses had learned to use this city to their advantage. Consumers like me had done so in a similar way.

Businesses need to compete. Businesses are not being fair NOR businesslike if they ask that the border be locked so that they can squeeze any price to consumers who have no idea of the prices.

Small business owners like medics, dentists, restaurants, tailors, decorators, etc, can go and buy their own resources/materials without the middle man.

Prices should reflect this...right, small business owners??? Right?

Oh....the Hugo Patt desperation at the House that Belizeans would rush across the border was another UDP LIE. Belizeans and planBelize are smart and careful. The stream into Chetumal is that...smart and careful. Patt...to send your hench person and lie about the border, Mr. Patt that was not necessary. It was easy to expose you. Us in Corozal North are tired of you and all your scandals. You are not a leader...you are a coward.

Belize FIRST PUP Voter

6 MAR

THE BELIZE TIMES

Corozal District Sheep Management Field Day March 2, 2022 - The Ministry of Agriculture, Food Security and Enterprise in collaboration with the Breeding Sheep and Goat Production and Guidance System Enhancement Project (Sheep Project Phase II) held a “Sheep Management Field Day” at the farm of Mr. Benito Vasquez in Paraiso Village, Corozal District.

The field day was held with 15 sheep and goat farmers, extension officers, and other interested parties from the Corozal District and included

demonstrations in feeding management, sheep barn management, breed demonstration, recordkeeping and meat cuts preparation. Mr. Vasquez, a well-respected sheep farmer, demonstrated his skills during the event.

The field day is a part of the commitment of the Sheep Project Phase II to have farmers teaching farmers. The project includes a budget of US$3 million for a four-year implementation that was signed and agreed to in March 2020. Its objectives include, among

2022 others, to continue to assist Belizean farmers to further improve the quality of their sheep and goats; to conduct a market study and value chain analysis to promote consumption and market penetration for sheep and goat products; and to strengthen the sheep and goat traceability system to improve value chain efficiencies.

During the closing remarks, Mr. Eason Huang, Project Specialist, reaffirmed the commitment of the Breeding Sheep and Goat Production and Guidance System Enhancement Project to continue supporting the farmers of Belize through theoretical and practical training and educational outreach.

Members of the Belizean Diaspora Donate Laptops to Secondary School Children

Wednesday, March 2, 2022 – The Ministry of Tourism and Diaspora Relations (MTDR) has received a donation of 130 laptops and accessories from Belizeans living at home and abroad that will be distributed to secondary school children by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Science, and Technology (MoECST).

Build Belize Inc, which is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, organized the “Donate to Educate” program in collaboration with MTDR and MoECST. Present at the handing over ceremony were Ambassador Sandhya Murphy on behalf of Build Belize Inc., Hon. Anthony Mahler, Minister of Tourism and Diaspora Relations; Hon. Francis Fonseca, Minister of Education, Culture, Science, and Technology; CEO Nicole Solano; CEO Dian Maheia and other representatives from both MTDR and MoECST. The donation, valued at over $150,000.00, includes laptops of various brands such as Lenovo, HP, Asus, Gateway, Samsung and Acer. Student recipients will be required to demonstrate responsibility, and a certain level of accountability for the devices. As a part of the distribution process, the MoECST will work with schools to establish a community service arrangement, and a tracking app will be utilized to ensure the security of the devices.

The mission of Build Belize Inc. is to empower and improve the lives of Belizeans through education, health, and community service. The organization supports the Belizean diaspora by coordinating efforts and assisting them to make contributions to the overall socio-economic development of Belize.

The Belizean diaspora and local Belizeans are encouraged to continue supporting children of Belize. More information on the program, including the donor list, FAQs and other information regarding the “Donate to Educate” campaign, can be found at buildbelizeinc.org The MTDR, MoECST and Build Belize wish to thank all generous donors for investing in education and for supporting Belizean secondary-school children.

For more information, please contact the MTDR Diaspora Relations Unit at 227-2591 or email diaspora.relations@tourism.gov.bz

6 MAR

2022 LIQUOR LICENSE NOTICES Notice is hereby given that Kirk Gillett is applying for a Publican Special Liquor License to be operated at “Rustic Korner Co. Ltd.” located at # 1659 Yellow Tail Snapper Drive, Ladyville Village, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Graciana Choc is applying for a Shop Liquor License to be operated at “Lupita’s Shop” located in Harmony Village, Cayo District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Manuel Francisco Sanchez/ Ana Griselda Flores are applying for a Shop Liquor License to be operated at “Emmanuel Grocery Shop” located at # 51 Amara Avenue, Belize City, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Lionel Smith is applying for a Publican Special Liquor License to be operated at “Coxman International Cool Spot” located in Rancho Dolores Village, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that D & K Winery Ltd. is applying for a Restaurant Liquor License to be operated at “D & K Winery Ltd.” located at # 148 Barrack Road, Belize City, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Busco Supermarket Ltd. is applying for a Shop Liquor License to be operated at “Busco Supermarket Ltd.” located at # 2670/2681 C.A. Blvd. Belize City, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Ronald Anthony Guerra is applying for a Malt Liquor License to be operated at “Twins Carwash & Chill Spot” located on Humble Street, Benque Viejo Del Carmen, Cayo District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Nidelvia Guerra is applying for a Beer Liquor License to be operated at “302 Express” located on Bishop Martin Street, Orange Walk Town, Orange Walk District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Kirk Gillett is applying for a Publican Special Liquor License to be operated at “Bleu Martini Bar & Lounge Ltd.” located at # 129 Newtown Barracks, Belize City, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Belize Birds Ltd. is applying for a Restaurant Liquor License to be operated at “Belize Birds Ltd.” located in Burrell Boom Village, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

099

THE BELIZE TIMES

Google, IDB and Belizean Government Join to Provide Career Opportunity for Belizean Youth Belize City, February 23. The IDB and Google.org have joined forces with the Ministry of Education, Culture, Science and Technology (MoECST) to provide a free of charge Google Certificate in Data Analytics for Belizeans between the ages of 14 and 29 years.

With no prior experience in programming or IT required to participate, the certificate equips participants with skills that are in high demand, providing them with access to remote job opportunities with high entry-level salaries at international companies.

“While the course is open for all youth, we in particular encourage young women to apply to help close the world’s gender gap in STEM fields” says the Minister Francis Fonseca at the MoECST. In addition to the cer-

tificate program, participants will also receive individual coaching in life skills, helping each one complete the course requirements.

“Building digital skills is at the center of the IDB’s Vision 2025 for the full recovery of the Latin American and Caribbean region, and as such, this opportunity directly benefits the youth population that has been affected by the pandemic, providing access to knowledge that is in demand by the digital labor market,” emphasizes Ramiro Lopez Ghio, Country Representative for the IDB. The initiative is part of a study to understand how to best close the skill gap in the Belize labor market. “Google Career Certificates provide an alternative pathway to upskill and connect youth with jobs in the digital economy, ‘’ said Hector Mujica, Economic Opportuni-

ty Lead for the Americas at Google.org.

“We are excited to work alongside the Inter-American Development Bank to advance opportunity for all across the Americas.”

To be considered for the certificate course, we invite you to fill out the following survey. For youth under the age of 18 to be considered for the course, parents must also fill out a survey, providing their consent.

The Inter-American Development Bank is devoted to improving lives. Established in 1959, the IDB is a leading source of longterm financing for economic, social, and institutional development in Latin America and the Caribbean. The IDB also conducts cutting-edge research and provides policy advice, technical assistance, and training to public and private sector clients throughout the region

REQUEST FOR EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST CONSTRUCTION SERVICES

Institution: Belize Water Services Limited Country: Belize Project: Seine Bight 500,000 US gallon Water Reservoir and site development Sector: Plant Abstract: The general objective of this publication is to engage eligible construction companies to build a two chamber 500,000 gallon reinforced concrete reservoir in the Seine Bight Village (Stann Creek District) as per design.

Project Number: 285511191974/ BW-55-1858 Deadline: March 15, 2022 The construction services (“the Services”) include, but are not limited to, construction of a 76ft x 76ft above ground reinforced concrete potable water reservoir: • supply all construction materials and construct and commission new reinforced concrete ground water reservoir (500,000 US-gallon capacity), including installation of all pipework and fixtures and • Construct Chemical, Dosing, and Pump rooms above reservoir including Plumbing and Electrical, Site fill, internal road, parking, site lights, drainage and perimeter fencing.

Belize Water Services Limited now invites eligible construction companies (“Bidders”) to indicate their interest in providing the Services. Interested Companies should provide information demonstrating that they have the required qualifications and relevant experience to perform the Services.

Companies must qualify on three (3) major work categories: • Civil and ancillary works including, but not limited to, construction and refurbishment of buildings, construction and refurbishment of roads and streets, major and minor roads chip and seal works, earthworks, fencing, concrete works, facility maintenance, retaining walls, drainage, security huts, shelters and canopies, railings, bins, signage, plastering, painting, etc.

• Water Supply Systems including new and renewals of transmission, distribution mains and service connections; installation of pump stations; installation of headworks; water treatment plant works (including mechanical/electrical and civil); and construction and/or restoration of reservoirs.

• Commercial mechanical and electrical works including electrical and mechanical installation for buildings and compounds Financial category of the project: • Large contract estimated more than $1,000,000.

Financial resources of the company shall be BZ$200,000 monthly.

Shortlisting of contractors will be based on the Application pack – Expression of Interest for Seine Bight 500,000 US gallon Water Reservoir and site Development Tendering process and is open to all eligible contractors as defined in the document.

The short list shall comprise of minimum of three (3) and maximum of eight (8) companies.

Companies may associate with other firms in the form of a joint venture or a sub-consultancy to enhance their qualifications.

Interested parties should contact the Engineering procurement representative, via email to obtain Application Package and other information.

Expressions of interest and application package must be delivered in a written form to the address below (in person, or by email) by March 15, 2022, no later than 3:00 P.M. Belize Water Services Limited Attn: Engineering Procurement 7 Central American Boulevard Belize City, Belize, C.A. Tel: +(501) 222-4757, Ext. 1713

E-mail: engineeringprocurement@bwsl.com.bz

10

6 MAR

THE BELIZE TIMES

2022

United States Donates New School Buildings March 1, 2022 - The donation ceremony for a newly constructed building at the San Pedro Government School, funded by the United States Government through U.S. Southern Command (USSOUTHCOM), took place today with officials from the U.S. Embassy and the Belize Ministry of Education, Culture, Science, and Technology presiding. The US$435,000 contribution will serve students and staff from the San Pedro village and surrounding communities. The U.S. Embassy was represented by Public Affairs Officer Adam Benz and Security Cooperation Officer Major Jason Booth. Chief Executive Officer Dian Castillo-Maheia and Chief Education Officer Yolanda Gongora represented the Belize Ministry of Education, Culture, Science, and Technology.

The three-classroom building comes with a four-stall restroom, an elevated water tank, and a sidewalk connecting the facility to existing structures. The project originated under the Beyond the Horizon 2020 initiative, a USSOUTHCOM humanitarian and civic assistance program comprising the construction of two educational facilities in the Corozal District as well as medical campaigns.

“The United States is a proud supporter of Belize’s efforts to get students back to face-to-face learning, whether through the donation of hundreds of thousands of Pfizer vaccines, or through this kind of important construction initiative that reunites teachers with their students in a modern learning environment,” emphasized Public Affairs Officer Adam Benz. “This donation from the American people is an investment in the future of Belize’s youth. It reflects the United States’ commitment to democracy, diversity, and equity, as we stand with Belize to help improve the quality of children’s education in rural communities.”

CEO Dian Castillo-Maheia said, “We are grateful for the kindness and the generosity of the American people. Their contribution will positively impact the children of this community for many years.”

Additional U.S.-funded new construction is underway at the San Antonio Government School in Corozal. This educational facility is expected to be completed in April of this year.

Young Swiss male looking for friendship from Belize.

Write to: Vitus Castelberg Aspenmontstr. 19 CH-7000 Chur Switzerland (Europe)

VACANCY

NOTICE Operations Manager

Applications are invited from suitably qualified persons to fill the following post in the Operations Department. In the Port’s continued effort to promote diversity both males/females, able/ differently abled are encouraged to apply for the available post.

Reports to: Chief Executive Officer Summary of Responsibilities: Lead the Operations Department to achieve the best possible level of service to our Customers, at the lowest possible cost, whilst ensuring zero harm. Inspire and motivate all Supervisors, Clerks and Operators and other Operations Staff to continuously improve safety standards and productivity, through the application of lean processes, complimented by the relevant application of technology. Lead change initiatives to achieve these macrolevel goals. Establish and maintain excellent working relationships with all other heads of department, collaborating within the leadership team to ensure the optimal holistic contribution to the continued success of the company.

Job Responsibilities: • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Attract, develop, grow and retain the best talents and fill the leadership pipeline.

Organize, balance and schedule workloads within the department.

Prioritize, delegate, and set performance objective, and develop visual management systems.

Follow-up on performance, provide quality feedback, and objectively appraise differentiated performance levels.

Empower and inspire to achieve high levels of motivation and employee engagement.

Ensure zero harm, improve safe working processes within the full Operational area of the facility.

Provide timely reports for all accidents and disciplinary incidents.

Understand Customer requirements and drive the department to achieve these on a consistent basis.

Track and manage variable expenditure to avoid all cost waste and reduce costs to the bare minimum.

Continuously lean, streamline, and improve processes.

Leverage relevant technology to automate processes.

Collaborate with the Technical department to ensure that the optimal quantity of equipment is available for deployment.

Work closely with the Accounting department to ensure that all services are precisely and expeditiously billed to the Customers.

Coordinate just-in-time berthing of all vessels with the Marine department.

Maintain high levels of data quality for Operational information and reports provided to other functions.

Represent the company towards Unions, Customers, Regulators and Authorities.

Provide inputs into budgetary processes.

Take ownership in ambiguous situations.

Job Qualifications/Requirement: • Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Supply Chain Management, Port Management or other related field (Master’s degree would be an asset) • 3-5 years’ exemplary leadership experience of diverse teams • Minimum 3-5 years’ experience in supervising or managing logistics operations or other similar fields Required Skills, Knowledge and Characteristics: To be selected applicants must possess the following important characteristics: • • • • • • • • • • •

Emotional intelligence Innovative and creative Complex problem-solving Critical and analytical thinking High cognitive ability Technology cognizance Persistence, resilience, stress tolerance, flexibility and adaptability Assertive and decisive Visionary and inspiring Coaching and mentoring High integrity

Compensation Package: Will be commensurate (in accordance with the Company's Salary Structure).

To apply: Provide updated resume, cover letter (addressed to Human Resource Manager), copy of valid social security card, valid police report, name and phone number of two (2) previous employers.

Email to: jobapplications@portofbelize.com Closing date for receipt of applications is Friday, March 04, 2022.

6 MAR

THE BELIZE TIMES

2022

Women and Youth Standing for the PUP

In an example of truly #breakingthebias, two days before the official start of Women’s month, on Feb 27, the PUP delegates of San Jose Succotz Village in the Cayo West Division came out to decide on the PUP 7 who would be contesting the 2022 Village Council elections in that village. One hundred and seventy-one (171) of the one hundred eighty (180) delegates came out to exercise their right.

The polls opened at nine (9) a.m. sharp and closed promptly at midday.

When the counting was over, the sole female candidate who contested for the post of chairperson candidate Ms. Sherel Cocom emerged victorious over her two male competitors namely Mr. Mark Galvez and Mr. Victor Shish. Ms. Sherel secured one hundred and thirty-one (131) votes while Mr. Shish received twenty-six (26) and Mr. Galvez received eleven

and being role models for other female aspirants. We stand proudly in with all you ladies.

Special thanks also go out to President Gua-

dalupe Chicas and the ladies of the UWG Belmopan Chapter along with Belmopan District Rep. Myrna (Tibby) Waight who were all on the ground today working with UWG District Rep. for Cayo Katie Chullin Jones, to ensure full support of all the female candidates. A grand applause to all who participated today.

bite, while the other anxiously waited his turn. Carolee, not much older than the boys herself, was moved by this scene of sharing even in grips of poverty. She knew there and then that she wanted to do everything she could to bring compassion into the lives of others.

Carolee’s life could be summed up in one word: “beautiful”; one lived with zest and zeal, creativity and compassion, justice, and heartfelt concern for well-being of those she encountered along her life path of Mercy. Her passion to study the lives of the martyred heroes of the Catholic faith energized her work to assist in organizing the Faith and Justice Movement in Belize, the Jesuit Volunteers of Belize, and several other such basic Ecclesial initiatives. When assigned to Brazil, she teamed up with Jose Marins, and her beloved lifelong companion Teolide” Teo” Trevisan, ICM, to sow seeds of Mercy in both passive and at times, dangerous circumstances. The accounts of their team effort were published in two (2) books.

One titled The Cry of the Church and the other, The Church from the Roots. Carolee spoke and wrote the English, Spanish, and Portuguese languages fluently and communicated well in French.

At the time of her death, Carolee had passionately fulfilled almost sixty (60) years to religious life, unwavering to the Mercy Order and to planet earth, in her signature style of a planned life well lived.

She died peacefully at Catherine’s Residence in St. Louis, Missouri. She was predeceased by her parents Ernest and

Dorothy Chanona and is survived by her seven (7) siblings: Alfred “Al”, Maureen, Tommy, Anthony, Margaret, Elizabeth, and Robert and by her Sisters of Mercy family all over the world as well as a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, in laws, friends and so many other loved ones.

Blessed Catherine Mc Auley once said…” Will we all meet in Heaven? Oh, what joy even to think of it”. Our beloved Flying Nun has now taken her last flight.

Only this time, she flew First Class – Non-Stop. Her ‘one way’ ticket bought and paid for by the precious resurrection promise of Jesus Christ Himself; Her final destination; Heaven, as blessed Catherine Mc Auley so rightly said.

EDITS TO ACKNOWLEGEMENT: The Sisters of Mercy of St. Catherine Convent Belize, the Sisters of Mercy of the Caribbean, Central America, and South America Community (CCASA) and the Chanona Family join in one accord to thank everyone for their prayers, phone calls, cards, floral arrangements, WhatsApp, and Text messages of heartfelt concern and condolences of sympathy expressed during Sister Carolee’s illness and following the news of her passing.

We wish to acknowledge, in particular, the love and warmth which overflowed from her Mercy family at Catherine’s Residence in St. Louis, and from all her caregivers there who attended Carolee’s daily needs during these past five (5) years of her life. May God bless you all.

(11) votes.

The United Women’s Group Belmopan branch came out to the convention in support of all the female candidates and were elated with the resounding victory and support Ms. Sherel received.

Nine candidates, four of them women vied for the six councilor positions on the PUP slate. When the counting was done, two of the four women were successful. The slate is as follows: Chairperson: Ms. Sherel Cocom | Councillors: Mr. Dominic Juan, Mr. Nelson Jimenez, Ms. Mariele Torres Panti, Ms. Leslie Elizabeth Chan, Mr. Cruz Puc, and Mr. Jeffery Panti.

Also sworn-in on Sunday was the sole female candidate on the Calla Creek PUP Village Council slate, 18-year-old Heidi Perez who in an interview indicated her reason for entering the political arena. She emphasized her desire to work for her village and to demonstrate the fact that young people are absolutely interested in helping the Government of Belize in accomplishing Plan Belize. Heidi is truly impressive and we say with open arms, welcome to the Party and she has our full support.

UWG: We proudly congratulate the new Chairlady candidate Sherel Cocom and councillor candidates Leslie Chan and Mariele Panti-Torres on their win today in the San Jose Succotz chairperson and councillor candidate convention. Congratulations also goes out to candidates Maria A Marin and Rosaria Panti for stepping up and participating in the political process

Obituary Carolee Dorothy Chanona was born in Belize City on February 13th, 1946; the first of eight (8) children to the marriage union of Ernest Chanona and Dorothy Chanona nee Woods.

Carolee’s love for dancing was evident even at the tender age of three (3) and led our mother to nickname her the “boogie-woogie” dancer. Carolee’s graceful movements would be a constant in presence among family, friends, and her Mercy community throughout her 76 years of life. In fact, she danced right up to a couple months before her death, despite her struggle with Parkinson’s; a powerful reminder to dance then, wherever you may be.

Carolee attended both St. Catherine’s Elementary and St. Catherine’s Academy and upon her graduation, left Belize at the tender age of seventeen (17) to heed God’s call to religious life. She received a bachelor’s degree in Spanish at Salve Regina College in Newport, Rhode Island; a master’s degree (Honors) in Spanish from the University of San Francisco, Lone Mountain College, and a 2nd master’s degree in Theological Studies (M.T.S) from the Jesuit School of Theology from university of Berkeley, California before making her final vows of com-

11

mitment to Jesus Christ as a Mercy nun.

Throughout her life, she energetically invested her talents and enterprising spirit into her Mercy vows; working in 21 countries across in 3 continents. So much so, that her siblings lovingly nicknamed her “the Flying Nun”.

On the occasion of her jubilee, Carolee shared that the one source of her conviction was a pitiful scene on a Belize City street in the 1950s. She recalled the image of seeing two (2) young school boys on their lunch break sharing their lunch meal: a single chicken leg. As she watched, one of the boys would take a

58 12

6 MAR

THE BELIZE TIMES 2022

6 MAR

2022

6 MAR

2022

13

18 JAN

2015THE BELIZE TIMES

Belize Hosts in San Pedro

MARCH 3 – CARICOM-SICA SUMMIT

Chaired by Prime Minister John Briceño

Chair of Spouses of CARICOM Leaders: SE Rossana Briceño

Hon. Philip Davis, PM Bahamas

H.E. Irfaan Ali, President of Guyana

Hon. Charles Washington Misick, Premier of the Turks and Caicos Islands

Hon. Joseph E Farrell, Premier Montserrat

Chair: PM John Briceño, Belize

Hon. Natalio Wheatley, Premier BVI

Hon. Montgomery Daniel, DPM Bahamas, St. Vincent & the Grenadines

Presidente Carlos Alvarado Quesada, Costa Rica

H.E. Chandrikapersad Santoki, President Suriname

Vice Presidente, Dr. Félix Ulloa, El Salvador

Presidente Alejandro Giammattei, Guatemala

Hon. Mia Motley, PM Barbados

14

THE BELIZE TIMES

6 MAR

2022

Women’s Month Message

Thea Garcia-Ramirez President of the National Women’s Commission

CAREER OPPORTUNITY Belize observes this year’s Women’s Month not so much with a theme, but with an urgent call to action, a call to #BreaktheBias. The National Women’s Commission has as its mandate to increase gender parity, equity and equality for all women and girls in Belize. It must coordinate national government and non-government initiatives to increase and enhance effective responses to address gender issues.

We work for a Belize free of bias, stereotypes, and any kind of discrimination and We work for a Belize that is diverse, equitable and inclusive. A Belize where all our differences are celebrated and valued.

The greatest obstacle to achieving these ideals is Bias. Bias exists in the workplace and schools, but it is first encountered and thought in the home. To eradicate it, we must address it anywhere it is found, and we must call it out. We must smash stereotypes and reject discrimination of any kind. It is only in doing these things that we will break these inequalities.

The importance of women’s leadership and participation cannot be over emphasized. Appointing the token representation is not nearly enough, studies show that we need at least 30% to truly make a difference in any organization. Belizean values can only be truly reflected in decisions of the state when the governance of our country better resembles the society it represents. If we do not ensure that women are in the room as equal and valued partners participating in the discussions and decisions of this government, we are at grave risk of finding solutions that work for only 45% of our population.

Women are 55% of the total population of Belize. We cannot afford to continue to oppress the majority of our citizens. Instead, we must recognize, nurture, celebrate and harness the creativity, productivity, incredible energy and power of all Belizean Women. During this month-long observation, we urge you to #breakthebias and to speak out against instances of inequity, discrimination, and abuse. The National Women’s Commission wishes to acknowledge and congratulate all Belizean Women for their contributions to our families and communities as they continue to build Belize.

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

We are looking for a highly motivated, goal oriented, responsible and committed person to join our Company in the role of Storekeeper I in the Procurement & Inventory Management Department of our Distribution Services Division at our Corporate Headquarters in Belize City.

Duties: • Manage the issuing, recording, labelling, packing and loading of materials using approved procedures.

• Receive materials, verify their quantity and quality and record and stock materials.

• Follow fuel management procedure when receiving fuel, verifying quantity and loading and offloading.

• Operate assorted equipment including indoor and outdoor forklifts, crane truck, small goods vehicles or other similar equipment.

• Adhere to the Company’s safety and environmental practices.

• Ensure stores and compound is clean and materials are stocked neatly.

Education and Experience: • Associate Degree in Business Administration or equivalent Required Skills and Abilities: • Basic proficiency using procurement, materials management, financial and requisition applications • Working knowledge of the Windows Environment and Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, Outlook) • Action and results oriented with excellent collaborative skills for pursuing shared goals • Ability to take initiative, exercise sound judgement while maintaining high work quality • Ability to meet deadlines in a fast paced and changing environment • Good oral and written communication skills • Possess good interpersonal skills • Valid Class B driver’s license Salary: in accordance with Company Salary Structure.

Submit application letter along with resume, copy of degrees and certificates and two recent professional letters of recommendation via email to: Manager, Talent Acquisition & Development Email: career.opportunity@bel.com.bz In the email subject, please indicate the position: Storekeeper I Only electronic applications are being accepted at this time.

For more information or queries, call 227-0954 Ext. 2901 or 1415 Deadline: Friday, March 11, 2022

6 MAR

2022

Minister of Public Utilities Leads Official Delegation of Belize Port Authority Officials to Jamaica

February 23, 2022 - Hon. Michel Chebat, Minister of Public Utilities, Energy, Logistics and E-governance, is leading an official delegation of Belize Port Authority officials to Jamaica.

During the five-day visit, the delegation will meet with the Ministry of Transport & Mining, Maritime Authority of Jamaica (Admiral Peter Brady, Director General), Port Authority of Jamaica (Professor Gordon Shirley, President) and Caribbean Maritime University (Professor Evan Duggan, President).

Jamaica is a maritime giant in the region and plays a leading role in the international maritime industry.

Therefore, one of the main objectives of the visit is to formalize the Technical Support Programme to enhance the Belize Port Authority’s capacity to develop and better regulate the mari-

MoECST Receives Donation from Grace Kennedy (Belize) Limited On February 25, 2022, the Ministry of Education, Culture, Science and Technology (MoECST) received a donation of 530 hand towel dispensers including napkins and hand towels from Grace Kennedy (Belize) Limited at a small ceremony held at the ministry’s office in Belize City.

The donated items will greatly complement the ministry’s ongoing efforts to ensure schools are provided with the necessary equipment for the smooth and safe delivery of hybrid learning during the pandemic. The items will be distributed to schools in the coming days.

Accepting the donation on behalf of the MoECST was Ms. Yolanda Gongora, Chief Education Officer, and delivering the donation was Ms. Harsha Jenkins, Brand Manager for Grace Kennedy (Belize) Limited. Ms. Gongora expressed her heartfelt appreciation to Grace Kennedy (Belize) Limited for their support to the ministry and to the education of the children of Belize.

Also present was Ms. Yvonne Codd, coordinator for the National School Feeding Programme.

UNLAWFUL SALE OF ROAD SERVICE PERMITS March 2, 2022 - It has been brought to the attention of the Department of Transport that several Bus Operators have been selling their Road Service Permits to persons who have not been granted approval by the Transport Board. The Department takes these allegations seriously and hereby advises the public that the sale or transferral of any Road Service Permit is unlawful and contravenes regulation 213 of the Motor Vehicles and Road Traffic Regulations.

Bus Operators and persons interested in applying for Road Service Permits are reminded that all applications for Permits must be submitted to the Department of Transport and approved by the Transport Board. Once granted, the holder of the Permit must comply with all its conditions.

Failure to comply with the conditions may result in the suspension or revocation of Permit.

15

THE BELIZE TIMES

time industry in Belize. The delegation is also exploring scholarship opportunities with the Caribbean Maritime University and capacity building for the expansion of cargo and cruise port facilities.

The delegation intends to learn from Jamaica’s successes and experience so that Belize can benefit from their trading models and market structures in order to guide the development of its maritime infrastructure and to develop Belize’s Maritime Sector.

Minister Chebat is joined by Jose Urbina, Chief Executive Officer in the ministry; Major (Retired) Lloyd Jones, Belize Port Authority Board Chairman; and Major (Retired) H. Gilbert Swaso, Port Commissioner; Raúl Ibanez, Senior Advisor; Andy Aranda, Board Member; Tiffanie Westby, Board Secretary.

REQUEST FOR EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST CONSTRUCTION SERVICES

Institution: Belize Water Services Limited Country: Belize Project: Independence to Seine Bight Transmission line Sector: Water Abstract: The general objective of this publication is to engage eligible construction companies to install a new potable water transmission pipeline from Independence Village to Seine Bight Village (Stann Creek District) as per design.

Project Number: 225511171739/ BWS-55-1618 Deadline: March 14, 2022 The construction services (“the Services”) include, but are not limited to, installation and commissioning of 3 miles of 10” PVC transmission line in the mainland and 3 miles of 10” HDPE transmission line through the lagoon: a) Identification of established Benchmarks and Setting out of new works; b) Excavation of trenches along the route, placement and compaction of embedment, backfill, and road base, and reinstatement of works c) Installation of pipeline and various assemblies, concrete anchors, and other components and d) Commissioning, including final connections, pressure (hydrostatic) testing, flushing, and disinfecting.

Belize Water Services Limited now invites eligible construction companies (“Bidders”) to indicate their interest in providing the Services. Interested Companies should provide information demonstrating that they have the required qualifications and relevant experience to perform the Services.

Companies must qualify on two major work categories: • Civil and ancillary works including, but not limited to, construction and refurbishment of buildings, construction and refurbishment of roads and streets, major and minor roads chip and seal works, earthworks, fencing, concrete works, facility maintenance, retaining walls, drainage, security huts, shelters and canopies, railings, bins, signage, plastering, painting, etc.

• Water Supply Systems including new and renewals of transmission, distribution mains and service connections; installation of pump stations; installation of headworks; water treatment plant works (including mechanical/electrical and civil); and construction and/or restoration of reservoirs.

Financial category of the project: • Large contract estimated more than $1,000,000.

Financial resources of the company shall be BZ$300,000 monthly.

Shortlisting of contractors will be based on the Application pack – Expression of Interest for Independence to Seine Bight Transmission Line Tendering process and is open to all eligible contractors as defined in the document.

The short list shall comprise of minimum of three (3) and maximum of eight (8) companies.

Companies may associate with other firms in the form of a joint venture or a sub-consultancy to enhance their qualifications.

Interested parties should contact the Engineering procurement representative, via email to obtain Application Package and other information.

Expressions of interest and application package must be delivered in a written form to the address below (in person, or by email) by March 14, 2022, no later than 3:00 P.M. Belize Water Services Limited Attn: Engineering procurement 7 Central American Boulevard Belize City, Belize, C.A. Tel: +(501) 222-4757, Ext. 1713

E-mail: engineeringprocurement@bwsl.com.bz

16

THE BELIZE TIMES

Liberian Vice President Visits March 2, 2022 - Currently in Belize is the Vice President of Liberia, Dr. Jewel Taylor for the first of its kind summit, a forum planned by the She4She Initiative out of Africa. Dr. Taylor comes at the invitation of the Mayor of Belmopan, Sharon Palacio and the purpose of her visit is to use her life and political success to inspire women in other parts of the world.

Dr Taylor arrived in Belize on Wednesday afternoon as a special guest to the Mayor of Belmopan, Sharon Palacio to deliver the keynote address at the event, which will take place on Thursday and Friday at the Best Western Biltmore Plaza Hotel in Belize City. It will have women from across the world.

Upon her arrival, Dr. Taylor told the media that women are as capable as men to accomplish political and any other successes they put their minds to, but that hard work and collective support are important.

“If you want to make a difference in the scheme of things, then politics is where the decisions are made and a woman shouldn’t be left out of any field. We bring our best to the table wherever we find ourselves,” the visiting dignitary said. “We were seconded to the home as caregivers, so the educational standards to you will see that me have attained over the years – women are just coming up.

They’re just opening doors now for women to go to school and learn and

LA RUTA MAYA ENFORCEMENT OPERATIONS Date: March 2, 2022 The public is hereby informed that the Department of Transport, in collaboration with the Police Department, will be conducting joint Enforcement Operations from March 4th to March 7th in the Cayo and Belize districts respectively.

This operation will focus primarily on the following offences: 1. “Driving under the influence of alcohol” 2. “Speeding” 3. “Passengers not properly seated in motor vehicle” 4. “Excessive passengers in motor vehicles” 5. “Failure to use seatbelt” 6. “Failure to use protective helmet” The aim of the operation is to deter poor driving behaviour and to increase road safety on all active thoroughfares. Drivers are cautioned and advised to comply with the provisions of the Motor Vehicles and Road Traffic Act during the La Ruta Maya festivities.

that is an important part of being anything or anyone that you want to be. And when you’re a politician, the requirements are even more. … If we can do it in Africa, you can do it here too.”

Mayor Palacio shared her view that the time is now for women from across the oceans worldwide to be empowered, to create linkages to offer each other support in their goals, and to act on those dreams.

6 MAR

2022

6 MAR

2022

THE BELIZE TIMES

THINK ABOUT IT PUBLIC OFFICERS WILL GET BACK THEIR 10% This is one those, Wow! Moments. Totally unexpected.

Totally surprising. But totally welcome.

Back in 1997, Esquivel and Barrow waited for December, days before Christmas. Letters of dismissal were placed on the desks of public officers. When public officers arrived at their work places and opened the letters, they got the shock of their lives. Your employment is hereby terminated. Go home right away.

Eight hundred public officers, fired in one single morning.

That was the UDP government’s response and stupid solution to the economic situation back then. The word ‘Retrenchment’ had arrived.

Fast forward to 2021. The newly elected PUP government got in office November 2020. For 2019 the first, second, third and fourth quarters fiscal and economic conditions showed the country was broke. Barrow and the UDP were borrowing a million dollars a day. Then a covid pandemic came upon the land like a biblical plague. Matters got worse. The situation was dire. Thousands of Belizeans lost their jobs. Tourism dried up. You all know what was happening.

The new PUP government was forced to introduce some degree of austerity. No money never deh. Public officers, teachers, nurses, police, soldiers were the ones to feel extra pressure. Rather than retrenchment, the government preferred a temporary and far less painful solution. Ten percent of all salaries were withheld. An unpopular decision but a necessary one.

The 10 percent wage cut was to be for two years. The government promised that there would be a regular review of the economic situation, and if things got better, they would consider restoring the wages before the two years.

Well, things are not all that better. But is good enough for the government to consider the hardship of all its employees and to help them in these stressful times. Even as major economic storms are blowing-inflaton on the rise, cost of imported goods rising, cost of petrol and even diesel are going through the roof.

And a major war in Europe between Russia and Ukraine will affect the cost of everything.

Prime Minister Johnny Briceño and the Cabinet could have waited for September and make a big splash in his national day speech. But this was no time for that. Without any big words, or fancy sentences, or purple paragraphs, he announced the good news. Come July, all withheld wages will be restored.

Even the humpy, grumpy President of the PSU felt forced to admit this was welcome news. Yes, it is. Always be fair. Always give respect where it is due.

Dean Barrow messed up the public service, messed up the economy, messed up the country- big time. Belizeans suffered 13 long years of pain and sorrow.

Poverty increased from 53 percent to a destructive 63 percent.

We give thanks and praises. The Russia versus Ukraine war is not just between those two countries. You all know America has to be in it. America is sending missiles and millions to Ukraine to help weaken Russia. War is a big money-making business for the USA, Britain and their allies. They love war the way a crack head love crack/cocaine. The weeks and months ahead are going to bring serious problems.

Let us eat what we grow and grow what we eat. Cut out luxury and unnecessary imports. Live like our grandparents, a humble and healthy and happy life.

We are becoming a wasteful, undisciplined and, some, a corrupt people. Let us all do better and let all our leaders- political, religious, social- lead by example.

RHENAE NUNEZ When you get to know Rhenae Nunez, you will find out she’s a lady full of love and compassion. A patriot who is seriously concerned about Belize and Belizeans.

The rebel known as Rhenae was a UDP in her youth. She belonged to their youth group. Like so many others she saw through their insincerity and worked tirelessly to help the PUP become government in 1998.

She worked even harder to get another PUP victory in 2020.

As a single mother, Rhenae’s number one priority was her two daughters.

One of whom is a near genius and through education embarked on a successful career in the USA causing Rhenae to go north.

Rhenae is a proud Garifuna lady. A proud Belizean and an asset to Belize and the new government. Don’t get on her wrong side, you will be facing an all-out African warrior. Ask the UDP. Rhenae has come into information which is showing serious corruption swirling around a handful of persons regarding laptops and computers under the last government.

Rhenae was in Belize over the weekend. She flew in for the funeral of a close relative in Punta Gorda. In on Friday and out on Sunday... Our condolences.

And our respect for keeping it real and being the wonderful person, you are. George Price had correctly called you a soldier of the peaceful, constructive, Belizean revolution.

And along came a prince charming, met Rhenae and as Beyoné said in her

17

song, put a ring on it. Congratulations Mrs. Rhenae.

MAGISTRATE ALBERT One of the best lay Magistrates of Belize retires in a few weeks.

Albert Hoare was an outstanding footballer and organizer. He came to the attention of football lover Sir George Brown and helped build the Chief Justice team.

Albert worked himself up from a Marshal of the Supreme Court, Registrar duties and became a Magistrate. He worked in several districts Courts as well as Belize City Courts doing civil and criminal cases. He is considered a strict magistrate but always fair in his judgements. Albert is highly regarded by the practicing attorneys. We wish him all the best in his new endeavors.

IS THERE A VOLUNTEER ARMY There was a time, under the colonial government of the British, when Belizeans (we were officially named British Honduras back then) had an institution called Home Guards.

The Home Guards were adults who volunteered to join what would be like volunteer soldiers. They were taught to march (drill), learn to shoot and do military matters. They looked impressive marching through the streets. They may even have had their own local marching band.

Those were the days.

Also, in those days there were sea scouts, regular boy scouts, girl guides and after that came the boys brigade under the Methodist denomination.

Those were the days, my friend, we thought they would never end.

Having said that, and yes with covid things had to be on hold. But does Belize still have “volunteers.”

When Belize in 1980 or so started on the final lop to become an independent nation, we were encouraged to form an army. A tiny army of a few hundred.

Today, 2022 our army is a mere 1,000. Our only known enemy is Guatemala, which claim half of our country in the International Court. If they lose, we hope they take it in stride. Their military and their previous governments have a bad, very bad, horrible history of massacres, cruelty, rape and murder of their own citizens, by the tens of thousands.

No one thousand soldiers can defeat Guatemala or repel any invasion. Not two thousand, not three thousand. We are spending fifty million dollars every year on our small army. We cannot afford it.

We need to reduce those expenses and start to encourage a volunteer army. We can teach thousands of young Belizean discipline, life skills, and how to help in hurricanes, floods and major fires.

We need to start thinking out of the box. The times they are a changing.

ADIEU HERBERT PANTON Our condolences go out to the family of Herbert Panton, his mom and dad and his spouse, Hon Tracey Taegar Panton and children.

Herbert loved life, and lived it abundantly. He had an impressive record in his short sojourn. A graduate of the Guyana University of law and the Norman Manley Law School in Jamaica.

Her served as a Magistrate, a Senator and worked on several committees and Boards. And was a practicing attorney at law.

Herbert Panton passed away suddenly after being rushed to hospital Tuesday night.

Our sincere condolences.

SCRUB-BOARD DIES IN A HAIL OF BULLETS Well-known and well-loved stevedore Edward Seldano 55 years, was gunned down early Wednesday night by WASA office on Wilson Street near Central America Boulevard.

Scrub-board as he was popularly known is the father of two sons who are well known to police and who would probably be wanted by rival gangs.

Rumors and yerriso on the mean streets of the underworld says Scrubboard had collected from the stevedores fund and had just come from Princess where he had served big.

Wednesday night also saw another execution style murder. This time in Ladyville. Around 7:30 pm police came across Dijion Foreman all shot up.

MINISTER CHEBAT IN JAMAICA The prestigious Jamaica newspaper-the Gleaner reported, with pictures, in its March 1st edition, on an official visit by Minister Michel Chebat and a maritime delegation.

The Minister and his advisors toured several relevant facilities and met with the Jamaica Minister responsible for port and maritime matters. Both Minister Chebat and the Port Commissioner Suazo addressed Jamaican technicians and were given updates of Jamaica’s forward plans for development issues.

18 2021 5 DEC

THE BELIZE TIMES

05 5 2022 6 MAR

Women’s MHW Month Message Belize National Day Dolores Balderamos Garcia I Hon. GOT VACCINATED!!

Held at Expo 2020 Dubai Minister of Human Development, Families and Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs New Incentive Raffle New Vax Pass App

Annually, Belize honors and celebrates the Women in our country during the Month of March. We use this time to reflect on progress made, to galvanize support for issues that adversely affect women, to call for change, and to celebrate acts of courage and determination by ordinary women who have played extraordinary roles in the history and edification of our communities and our beloved country Belize.

International Women’s Day has been observed since in the early 1900’s. It is a collective day of global celebration and a call for gender parity. It is all about Unity, Qualify weekly by Celebration, Reflection, Advocacy, and Getting your 1st, 2nd shot Vaccine Action. or The Theme for this Women’s the single Johnson andyear’s Johnson shot Month is “#BreakTheBias.”

This theme is or inclusive significant in our efforts to a boosterand shot empower Prizes women and girls, and in working towards achieving gender equality.

1st place…$3,000 We reimagine a world that is diverse, 2ndcan place…$1,000 equitable, and inclusive. A world where 3rd place…$500 differences are both valued and celebrated, and women are respected and celebrated. Understanding that bias exists is not enough. Action is needed to eradicate bias and to level the playing field so that women and girls are not denied opporThis is ready to be downloaded tunities for education and employment for Android and Apple devices. Once based on bias. We call on all Belizeans this App is in the phone there is no to Break the Bias of stereotypes and disneed to walk around with your vaccrimination, in our professional, personal, cination card. With your Social Secufamily, and social lives !! rity number OR Belize Health InforI am proud of the fact that in Febmation System number (on the Vax ruary 2022, Members of the House of Card) for the App and a SSB card you Representatives and Senate gave their can prove to the world that you are unanimous support to the Motion against vaccinated.

Domestic Violence in Belize. This MoThe App can be used to verify tion is of great significance because it that someone else has been vacciis the first time that a call was made nated. This can be done by scanning BY nаtіоnаl lеаdеrѕ FOR national leadthe QR code to verify that it is auers to take а stance of Zеrо Tоlеrаnсе thentic. As said before, the SSB card to Dоmеѕtіс Vіоlеnсе. It has now been is important to confirm identity. recognized as an issue of national imporIf you are unable to access your tance and an affront to Belizean women, vaccination record using your Social families and children. The Houses, both Security or BHIS number you can Upper and Lower, рlеdgеd tо tаkе both text, call or whatsapp 669-8843 or іndіvіduаl аnd соllесtіvе асtіоn tо еnd 613-1096. thіѕ рlаguе in оur nation. Likewise, there Get Vaccinated!! has been staunch support for the proposal to grant Nora Parham, a victim of terrible domestic violence, a pardon, posthumously. It is never too late to say sorry and to demonstrate by solid action that we are righting a wrong as best we can !!!

Women are powerful agents of change, and the far-reaching benefits of diversity and gender parity in leadership and decision-making are increasingly recognized in all spheres. Still, Belizean women continue to be vastly under-represented in decision-making in politics and business, this being true especially in rural and indigenous communities. Women are also recognized as agents of sustainable development and key players in our fight against climate change as partners in the preservation of our environment. Empowered women will help us to build resilience, not only against climatic change, but also against external economic forces by being at the forefront of the war

Ministry of Health Pass App

On December 1st there were 8 winners which We included 3rd place against poverty. do thisfive by promoting winners, two 2nd place winners, education, health and wellness and and inone winner of the 1st place three thoucreasing productivity within our families sand dollars. All this was won by getand communities, and by effecting positing vaccinated during the last week. tive change both in the present day, and, The raffle including this one is set for as well, future generations of Belizeans. seven weeks. This therefore goes into When the new yearwomen 2022. are meaningfully represented and in leadership This raffle isengaged being supervised by bodies—such as the legislature, courts, the National Lottery Committee.

The executive boards, and community counfirst 1st prize winner is Ariel Duarte, cils—laws, andVaccinated decisions with are this could berulings, you. Get more2nd likely be inclusive and represen1st, or to booster shot…This will be tative, andon diverse views are taken into streamed the Ministry of Health and account. This inclusivity diversity Wellness Facebook pageand every Monday at to 2pm. leads a more Equitable and Just soci-

women and girls to engage in STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) through scholarships and mentorship. Government has prioritized Housing and Land Ownership for women and single mothers !!

Dubai, United Arab Emirates, others. ety.

There is still much to do before November 30, 2021. Belize is particThe Belize National Day featured Our Government is committed to women, who are over 50% of our popipating in Expo 2020 Dubai which is remarks from the Minister of Tourism changing the narrative on women in ulation, are represented at all levels of being held under the theme, “Con- and Diaspora Relations, Anthony Mahler leadership AND to confronting the soleadership, but I am confident that this necting Minds, Creating the Future” and the Minister of State of the UAE, cio-economic drivers of gender inequalwill change the better we arewho dewith the subthemes: Opportunity, H.E. Khalifa for Shaheen Al ifMarar, ity. Mobility Already, and thereSustainability has been a movement termined !!! and today, commented on Belize’s openness to to empower the women of Belizethe through Womenopportunities of Belize, on this 1st a delegation led by Minister, Hon- investment thatMarch are tied several grant and loan programs geared and throughout this month We Salute ourable Anthony Mahler, celebrated to biodiversity and sustainable practicfor Belize’s women inNational micro, small, and medium You Day. EXPO Dubai es to!!! protect the country’s ecosystem. enterprises.

There has also been an imOnce National again Happy Women’s Day provides opportunities to finding solu- The Belize Day closed off with portant to encourage more Happy Women’s Month All a!!!!! tionsmovement to the pressing challenges of aand dinner hosted by the UAEtoand gift our time by offering a journey inside exchange by Minister Mahler who was a universal theme through engaging presented with a key to the city.

PUBLICAUCTIONSALE: PROPERTY and immersive activities. Countries Scheduled to appear as the culPunta Gorda, Toledo District can participate in one of the Ascendancy three tural from Belize BY ORDER of the Mortgagees, Messrs.

Belizeentertainment Limited, Licensed Auctioneers Kevinwas A. subthemes and Belize is participatCastillo and Christiana R. Castillo are selling ONLINE via belizepropertyauctions.com below the Garifuna Collectives, who,theunfortudescribed Sale currently theme running and expirewere Tuesday 8thable March at 10:30due am. to ing underproperty. the Opportunity to will nately not to2022 perform Parcel No. 907 Punta Gorda Town, Toledo District showcase Belize as an ideal destina- COVID-19 restrictions. tion for investments and trade.

This is the first World Expo to be Belize’s participation comes on held in the Middle East with participathe heels of its first Investment Sum- tion from over 190 countries and is promit which saw investment potential jected to attract 25 million visitors, with with countries from around the world, the Belize pavilion receiving up to 2,500 including the United Arab Emirates visitors in a day. The Belize Delegation REGISTRATION SECTION BLOCK PARCEL (UAE), with whom we signed an Eco- also included Dr. Leroy Almendarez, Punta Gorda 42 907 nomic Cooperation Agreement (ECA) Executive Director of BELTRAIDE, Comin 2019.

The ECAtwo-storey establishes a framemissioner General for EXPO Dubai, (Being an incomplete concrete dwellTERMS: STRICTLYCASH work expanding theFloor: economic re- Mr. EvanKEVIN ing housefor containing Ground 3 bedrooms Tillett, Director Belize Tourism A. CASTILLO +lationship 1 bathroom + living/dining/kitchen; First between the two countries Board and Ms. Nikki Augustine, TELEPHONE 223-4488 MarFloor: incomplete foundation and land situate in Website: in a number of key areas; including in- keting and belizepropertyauctions.com Communications Manager Punta Gorda Town, Toledo District, the freehold E-mail: kevinacas@yahoo.com vestment, in- of BELTRAIDE, Deputy Commissioner property of Ms.tourism, Phillipa G. transportation, Williams.) frastructure and construction among General.Facebook: Belize Auctions

6 MAR

19

THE BELIZE TIMES

2022

Women’s Month Remarks

Her Excellency Rossana Briceño

Special Envoy for the Development of Families and Children Women’s month is truly a time to celebrate the achievements we as women have made, and a time to chart the course ahead. Many Belizean women have made great strides towards a more gender equal society. We have worked with successive administrations to push Belize to join with other likeminded nations to sign and ratify conventions, and global agreements to advance the progress of women and some of this work has borne good fruit. In government, we have seen a significant number of high-level representations by women. The Speaker of the House of Representatives and the President of the Senate are women.

The country’s top legal mind our attorney general is for the first time, a woman. Our first indigenous Mayan Governor General Her Excellency Froyla Tzalam is only the second woman to represent our Head of State. We have our first ever female Vice Commandant of the Belize Coast Guard – Lieutenant Commander Alma Pinelo and currently the Acting Chief Justice of Belize Her Honor Michelle Arana is a Woman.

From the Speaker’s Chair to the Ministries’ CEOs, close to half of our government offices, women have taken up the mantle of leadership in Belize and have made outstanding contributions to our development. Each of these women have led careers demonstrating hard work, incredible skill, unquestionable integrity, and duty to country. These appointments, as well as the many others made under this government, continue to raise women’s economic empowerment, political participation, leadership, and decision-making within our society, demonstrating once again that the issue of gender equality is fundamentally an issue of power.

There is no denying that we are far from where we need to be. In fact, the global pandemic has in many ways caused new challenges and threats in our fight for gender equality. For this reason alone, this year’s commemoration of Women’s month being commemorated under the theme “Break the Bias - Imagine a gender equal world is consequential.”

In truth, the current situation for too many of our women is dire. Too many, too often, are under siege. For example, those women targeted for harassment, violence, and abuse continues to rise. In fact, the National Women’s Commission noted that 78 percent of all sexual and domestic violence reports are against women. Belizean women are more likely to face workplace discrimination and they are paid close to 20 percent less than men with similar careers. In our political system, only 4 of 31 elected persons who sit in the House of Representatives are women and only two women are a part of the Cabinet. These are the highest decision-making bodies in our nation.

Under-representation of women in roles of leadership, while improving slightly, is sadly a glaring factor of the slow progress of gender equality in Belize. We must change this.

We must change this because as highlighted during these challenging COVID times women are being profoundly impacted. Whatever fragile gains

shores, in Rwanda 54.8 per cent of all ministers are women. In Lithuania, the share of women in government went up from 8 per cent to 43 percent and Mongolia progressed from 6.7 per cent women ministers in 2020 to 18.8 per cent in 2021. This is the kind of change that is needed here at home in Belize.

As the Special Envoy for the Development of Families and Children, I call on our government: Do more to promote women in political leadership.

We can and must improve women’s participation in leadership and decision-making, and in promoting and instituting policies and special measures, like

well-designed and effectively implemented gender quotas and targets. High-quality, timely, and sex-disaggregated data is very crucial for informed policymaking.

It is imperative therefore, that Belize designs and implements evidence-based, gender-sensitive policies and programs through policy-data integration tools if we are to achieve our goal of a more gender equal society, do more to increase women’s access to finance, entrepreneurship, to development opportunities, and digital technologies. We need to develop a comprehensive family policy agenda that could be a catalyst and foundation for advancing women’s empowerment, well-being, and development.

Belize, we must be strong, and our actions must be bold!

Let this year be the defining year for Belize.

It is in our hands to do so!

Happy Women’s Month Belize!

PUBLICAUCTIONSALE: PROPERTY Melhado Estate, Mount Pleasant, Cayo District

women made in the past decade were all but wiped out by the pandemic. Currently, female labor force participation has severely limited many women’s ability to support themselves and their families, especially for female-headed households. Covid also revealed the double burden of care that women bear. On average, as noted by OXFAM, women spent twice as much time on household work than men, four times as much time on childcare, and are largely responsible for the unpaid work within the community.

A year into the pandemic, in April 2021, SIB noted that our labor market consisted of 72.9 percent males compared to just 47 percent females within the same age group. If we continue this path, the UN predicts that it will take two centuries –200 years -- to close the gap in economic empowerment between men and women. In a society of equals, this cannot be allowed to happen. Our cultural identity, our economy, our political system, our society and especially our individuality is under assault because of the many acts of violence against women. We will not be able to live out the true meaning of this year’s theme if we keep going in this direction.

For this reason, we welcome the call to Break the Bias - Imagine a gender equal world.

A world free of bias, stereotypes, and discrimination.

A world that is diverse, equitable, and inclusive.

A world where difference is valued and celebrated.

Together we can forge women’s equality.

Collectively, we can all #BreakTheBias.

This month and for the rest of this year then, let us make our impatience known!

We know what needs to be done requires political will, and we know we must promote women’s roles and women’s rights.

Yes, change is possible, however in this regard political will is critical. In Barbados, both the Prime Minister and the President are women. In Nicaragua, 59 per cent of ministries are led by women. In the United States, women in charge of ministerial portfolios rose from 17 per cent in 2020 to 46 per cent in 2021. Farther from our

BY ORDER of the Mortgagees, Messrs. The Belize Bank Limited, Licensed Auctioneers Kevin A. Castillo and Christiana R. Castillo are selling ONLINE via belizepropertyauctions.com the below described property. Sale currently running and will expire on Wednesday 9th March 2022 at 2:00 pm: Parcel No. 788 “Little Orange Walk” formerly Melhado Estate, Mount Pleasant, Cayo District:

REGISTRATION SECTION

BLOCK

PARCEL

Mount Pleasant

20

788

The freehold property of Mr. Leopold Suarez.

“FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION & PHOTOGRAPHS PLEASE VISIT WEBSITE”

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

NOTICE TO THE GENERAL PUBLIC THIS IS TO INFORM YOU THAT PURSUANT TO THE TELECOMMUNICATIONS ACT - S.I.110 OF 2002, THAT DERRICK VELASQUEZ OF DANGRIGA, STANN CREEK DISRICT, HAS APPLIED TO THE PUBLIC UTILITIES COMMISSION FOR THE USE OF FM BROADCAST FREQUENCY TO OPERATE AN FM RADIO STATION- SOUTHERN BELIZE MEDIA RADIO STATION FOR SOUND BROADCAST TO PROVIDE COVERAGE THROUGHOUT THE STANN CREEK DISTRICT AND THE SURROUNDING AREAS.

20

6 MAR

THE BELIZE TIMES

2022 CONSULTANCY NOTICE

Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Trade and Immigration March 1, 2022 The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Trade & Immigration wishes to provide the facts surrounding the allegation by Channel 7 that it has been discriminated against and has been muzzled by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in its coverage of the Meeting of the Conference of the Heads of Government.

Here are the facts: Prior to the 33rd Inter-sessional Meeting of the Conference of the Heads of Government of the Caribbean Community, the Government of Belize Press Office briefed the media as to the rules that would be applied as provided by the CARICOM Secretariat. All attending media houses were informed that because of the nature of the Summit, and the fact that the region’s leaders would be present, security would be heightened. ALL media houses were informed of areas at the conference site where they would have access, and areas where they would not be allowed access.

On Monday, February 28, 2022, Ms. Cherisse Halsall of Channel 7 arrived at the media room and was reminded of the conditions with access. She left the room claiming she needed to clear her head. Shortly thereafter, the Press Office was informed that she and her cameraman were in a no-access area. Ms. Halsall falsely told personnel there that she had gotten permission from the CARICOM Secretariat. She had not. She threatened that if she was removed she would cause a scene, and was verbally abusive to security personnel there, including the head of the Belize Defence Force detail.

The decision was made to allow the

Channel 7 team to record the arrivals.

On Tuesday, March 1, 2022, Ms. Halsall arrived at the breakfast area, which she knew was a no-access zone for the media. Heads of Government, Foreign Ministers and officials were holding bilateral meetings during breakfast which was set out around the swimming pool.

Media personnel, both local and regional, were informed that they could not conduct interviews in that area and left without incident. Ms. Halsall was asked to leave and refused again, threatening to cause a scene. Security personnel removed her.

The video being aired by Channel 7 shows clearly that Ms. Halsall was at the pool area – a no-media area.

Despite that incident, Channel 7’s cameraman was allowed full access to the opening session of the Summit, as had been promised to all media houses.

The claim by Channel 7 that their media house was muzzled is false. They were and will be allowed the same access as all other media houses, local and regional, with no exceptions.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Trade & Immigration regrets the decision by Channel 7 to play victim and cry foul with extreme sensationalism. In Belize, as in every region of the world, there are rules and protocols which govern meetings of this type. Regrettably, Channel 7 chose to blatantly ignore the rules and use freedom of the press as justification.

We reiterate that members of the media are present at the Summit and will have full access to the delegates in areas and at times specified.

Closure of the Lobster Season February 18, 2022 The Fisheries Department takes this opportunity to inform fishers and the public that the Caribbean Spiny Lobster (Panulirus argus) season will close on February 28, 2022 in accordance with Statutory Instrument No. 128 of 2021. The closed season for Spiny Lobster fishery is from March 1st to June 30th in any year. Belize’s closed season is also in accordance with the harmonized regional lobster regulation (OSP-02-09) implemented by the Organization for Central American Fisheries and Aquaculture Sector (OSPESCA).

Any person found in possession of lobster during the said closed season will be prosecuted in accordance with the Fisheries Resources Act Chapter 210 of the Substantive Laws of Belize, Revised Edition 2020.

The Fisheries Department also reminds fishers that lobster traps should be removed from fishing grounds during the closed season. The Department will be actively enforcing the removal of traps from the waters during this period.

The public is advised to report any illegal fisheries activity by calling telephone number: 224-4552 or by email: fisheries_department@fisheries.gov.bz.

Development of a Stakeholder Engagement Plan for Environmental Impact Assessments in Belize

BACKGROUND

The Department of the Environment (DOE) is committed to meaningful and effective stakeholder engagement in the preparation and evaluation of Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA). This will contribute to a successful project, eliminate conflicts with local communities and other stakeholders, and provide for a transparent and systematic process that is beneficial to all parties. Failing to carry out a meaningful consultation in development of the EIA report and in the evaluation process may result in timeline delays, failure of the project, and a significant cost to the community, executing agency, and beneficiaries.

Public Consultations and Hearings were carried out in-person since the inception of the EIA Regulations. However, the safeguard measures now in place to prevent, control, contain and suppress the spread of the infectious disease COVID-19 has required that the DOE identify and implement new measures for the continued and enhancement of public involvement in the EIA process. Hence, the stakeholder plan shall take into consideration such new measures and the need for their standardization and formalization, taking into consideration existing policies and programs to engage stakeholders.

OBJECTIVES The Department of the Environment is looking for a consultant/firm that will be able to develop a Stakeholder Engagement Plan, taking into consideration the safeguard measures now in place to prevent, control, contain and suppress the spread of the infectious disease COVID-19.

The consultant will be expected to develop and submit the following to the Department for implementation.

I. A Stakeholder Engagement Plan (SEP) to be used during the EIA Screening Process when conducting public consultations/hearings to further strengthen the Environmental Clearance Process. Such a plan will outline actions/activities/processes to be set in motion at the time confirmation is received that the developer will proceed with the EIA study, to the final stage of the EIA process, that is, the decision-making stage.

II. A procedure that is the most effective/efficient means of communication to standardize the public consultation and engagement, considering the background of all stakeholders.

III. Developed an information commercial showcasing the means and way of effective participation for the EIA process.

QUALIFICATIONS (i) Minimum of Bachelor’s degree in Social Science, Communication, Psychology, Sociology or related field, Master’s degree preferred. (ii) Minimum of 5 years working experience in the field of Social Science with a broad understanding of human behavior, communication, as well as issues of environment and society, and with practical experience in the development of action plans. (iii) Familiarity and work experience in the field for an extended period in Belize are essential. (iv) Ability to engage stakeholders in an effective and efficient manner. (v) Excellent writing and communication skills and ability to work in a multidisciplinary and multicultural team and excellent command of English is required SUBMISSION PROCESS The Department of the Environment is inviting consultant/firm who possess the requisite qualifications to submit an application to include a cover letter, a proposed work plan, methodologies, and copy of C.V along with a proposed budget to the Chief Environmental Officer, Department of The Environment, Second Floor, The Green Building, 7552 Hummingbird Highway, City of Belmopan. The DOE will not bear any cost associated with the preparation of this proposal. Digital Copies of the application can be emailed to doe.ceo@environment.gov.bz.

DEADLINE FOR SUBMISSION The deadline for the submissions of packages has now been extended from February 24, 2022, to March 18th, 2022 at 3:30 pm.

Interested persons can get a copy of the Terms of Reference (ToR) from the DOE website: www.doe.gov.bz or contact the Department of the Environment via email gordonkd@gobmail.gov.bz or eiaunit@environment.gov.bz

6 MAR

21

THE BELIZE TIMES

2022

Specific Procurement Notice Belize Defense Force Troop Lifting Vehicles Nº CABEI-G-004-2147/2022 One Stage-One Envelope

Specific Procurement Notice Six (6), 4x4 Diesel Pickup Trucks Nº CABEI-G-001-2147/2022 One Stage-One Envelope

March 4th, 2022 1. SOURCE OF RESOURCES

March 4th, 2022 1. SOURCE OF RESOURCES

The Central American Bank for Economic Integration (CABEI), as part of the services it provides to its beneficiary partner countries, is granting full financing for the Procurement of ten (10) Troop Lifting Vehicles within the framework of the Belize Integral Security Program.

The Central American Bank for Economic Integration (CABEI), as part of the services it provides to its beneficiary partner countries, is granting total funding for the Procurement of Six (6) 4x4 Diesel Pickup Trucks for the Belize Police Department within the framework of the Belize Integral Security Programme (BISP).

2. EXECUTING AGENCY AND BUYER OF THE BIDDING PROCESS 2.1 Buyer’s background The Executing Body (EB) for the BISP is the Ministry of Finance, Economic Development, and Investment. The MED will be responsible for the execution of the Programme and all its components, reporting all progress to CABEI and ensure the execution of each component under the terms established for CABEI formulation and approval. The execution of BISP components will be carried out by the Co-Executors: Belize Police Department, Belize Defense Force, Belize Coast Guard and National Forensic Science Services.

2.2 The Ministry of Economic Development is responsible for the present Procurement process for which it invites suppliers of goods and services to submit bids for this procurement in a sealed envelope.

2.3 The Supplier will be selected and awarded in accordance with the procedures of the Central American Bank for Economic Integration as established in the Procurement Policy for Procurement of Goods, Works, Services and Consultancies with CABEI resources and its Regulations, (DI-52/2020 and PRE40/2021) which can be found on the following web site: https:// www.bcie.org.

2. EXECUTING AGENCY AND BUYER OF THE BIDDING PROCESS 2.1 Buyer’s background The Executing Body (EB) for the BISP is the Ministry of Finance, Economic Development, and Investment. The Ministry of Economic Development will be responsible for the execution of the Programme and all its components, reporting all progress to CABEI and ensure the execution of each component under the terms established for CABEI formulation and approval. The execution of BISP components will be carried out by the Co-Executors: Belize Police Department, Belize Defense Force, Belize Coast Guard and National Forensic Science Services.

2.2 The Ministry of Economic Development is responsible for the present Procurement process for which it invites suppliers of goods and services to submit bids for this procurement in a sealed envelope.

2.3 The Supplier will be selected and awarded in accordance with the procedures of the Central American Bank for Economic Integration as established in the Procurement Policy for Procurement of Goods, Works, Services and Consultancies with CABEI resources and its Regulations, (DI-52/2020 and PRE-40/2021) which can be found on the following web site: https://www.bcie. org.

3. PRESENTATION OF THE PROCUREMENT PROCESS 3.1 General Objectives of the Procurement: Acquisition of ten (10) Troop Lifting Vehicles for the Belize Defense Force.

3.2 The Buyer makes available to interested parties all the documentation related to this Procurement necessary for the preparation of bids.

Such information will be available free of charge: a. For download on the Ministry of Economic Development’s Website: www.med.gov.bz/bisp-tenders and the Ministry of Finance’s Procurement Portal https://blz-cppnb.caricom.org/ epps/home.do. b. Additional information regarding the preparation of proposals can be communicated by emailed to: procurementofficer. bisp@med.gov.bz and copied to projectcordinator.bisp@ med.gov.bz.

Any cost to obtain printed documents are Non-Refundable. The nominal charge amounts needed are to cover printing and shipping costs.

3.3 Bids for this invitation to bid shall be received no later than April 11th, 2022 until 2:00p.m. at the following physical address below 3.4 Bids must be sent to the address below. Bids will not be permitted in electronic form and no late bids will be accepted. Bids shall be opened publicly, in the presence of the representatives designated by the Bidder, at the address listed below 3.5 All Bids must be accompanied by one “Bid Maintenance Declaration”.

3.6 The address mentioned above is:

3. PRESENTATION OF THE PROCUREMENT PROCESS 3.1 General Objectives of the Procurement: acquisition of 6 (six) 4x4 Diesel Pickup Trucks for the Belize Police Department.

3.2 The Buyer makes available to interested parties all the documentation related to this Procurement necessary for the preparation of bids.

Such information will be available free of charge: a. For download on the Ministry of Economic Development’s Website: www.med.gov.bz/bisp-tenders and the Ministry of Finance’s Procurement Portal https://blz-cppnb.caricom.org/ epps/home.do. b. Additional information regarding the preparation of proposals can be communicated by emailed to: procurementofficer. bisp@med.gov.bz and copied to projectcordinator.bisp@ med.gov.bz.

Any cost to obtain the documents are Non-Refundable. The nominal charge amounts needed are to cover printing and shipping costs.

3.3 Bids for this invitation to bid shall be received no later than April 4th, 2022, until 2:00 p.m. at the following physical address below: 3.4 Bids must be sent to the address below and bids will not be permitted in electronic form. No late bids will be accepted. Bids shall be opened publicly, in the presence of the representatives designated by the Bidder, at the address listed below.

3.5 All Bids must be accompanied by one “Bid Maintenance Declaration”.

3.6 The address referred to above is:

Project Coordinator Belize Integral Security Programme #1904 Constitution Drive, 2nd Floor, Unit 3 Belmopan City, Cayo District Belize, Central America Telephone: 501-826-6102

Project Coordinator Belize Integral Security Programme #1904 Constitution Drive, 2nd Floor, Unit 3 Belmopan City, Cayo District Belize, Central America Telephone: 501-826-6102

Ref: Belize Integral Security Programme (Nº CABEI-G-004-2147/2021)

Ref: Belize Integral Security Programme (Nº CABEI-G-001-2147/2022)

22

6 MAR

THE BELIZE TIMES

2022

TENDER FOR THE SUPPLY OF FOOD ITEMS AND HOUSEHOLD SUNDRIES TO THE BELIZE COAST GUARD YEAR 2022 – 23 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

Tenders are invited for the supply of food items listed below to the Belize Coast Guard for the period 1st April 2022 to 31st March 2023.

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

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

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

Tenders should be in sealed envelope marked “Tender for the Supply of Food, Household Sundries, Vegetables, and Meat to the Belize Coast Guard” and should be deposited in the tender box at the Ministry of National Defence and Border Security, Belmopan no later than the 18th of March 2022.

Companies Registry Certificate to be submitted.

Social Security letter of good standing to be submitted Belize Sales Tax Letter of good standing to be submitted LIST OF FOOD ITEMS AND HOUSEHOLD SUNDRIES REQUIREMENT BELIZE COAST GUARD Food allocation and household sundries are per month Belize Coast Guard 2 ½ Miles George Price Highway, Belize FOOD (RATION) TENDERING FOR FISCAL YEAR 2022 – 23

SER

Commodities

Units

Qty

Pkg

Breakdown

Brand

SER

Commodities

Units

Qty

Pkg

Breakdown

Brand

1

BBQ Sauce

18 oz bot

10

cses

12 per case

Kraft

54

Marie Sharp Pepper

10 oz bot

12

cses

12 per case

Marie Sharp

2

BBQ Sauce

80 oz bot

1

cse

6 per case

Kraft

55

Mayonaise

8 oz bot

6

cses

12 per case

Kraft

3

Bake Beans (honey)

28 oz tin

12

cses

12 per case

Bush

56

Mayonaise

1 gal

1

cse

4 per case

Plantation

4

Baking Powder

8 oz tin

5

cses

24 per case

Heart Club

57

Milk

1 lt box

2

cse

12 per case

Lala

5

Beans - Black

100 lb sack

3

scks

100 lb per sack

Local

58

Milo

300 g pk

6

cses

12 pks per case

Nestle

6

Beans - Red Kidney

100 lb sack

6

scks

100 lb per sack

Local

59

Mix vegetables

15 oz tin

5

cses

24 per case

Del Monte (packed/USA)

7

Beef consume

12 g sachet

45

cards

12 sachet per card

Mahler

60

Nut meg

lb

1

lbs

1 lb per jar

Badia

8

Black Pepper

lb

18

jar

1 lb per jar

Badia

61

Oats

18 oz tin

5

cses

12 per case

Quaker (packed /USA)

9

Bread - Wheat

each

400

ea

Local

62

Olive Oil

1 gal

3

Cses

4 per case

Badia

10

Butter

1 lb per pk

3

cses

30 pks per case

Blue Bonnet

63

Onion Powder

jars

15

11

Cookies

box

1

cse

24 x 250 grams

McVittes

64

Parmesan Cheese

Bot

4

bots

12

Campbell Soup

10.5 oz tin

10

cses

12 per case

Campbell

65

Peanut Butter -Creamy

bot

1

cses

12/160m

Jif

13

Cereal

18 oz pk

5

cses

12 per case

Honey Nut Cheerios’

66

Powder milk

840 g

3

cses

12 per case

Nestle Nido

14

Cereal

14.5 oz pk

1

cse

12 per case

Honey Bunches of Oats

67

Ranch Dressing-light

bot

2

cses

12 per case

Hidden Valley

15

Cereal

560 g pk

5

cses

10 per case

Kellogs Corn Flakes

68

Recado black

lb

10

lbs

per lb

Local

16

Cheese

2 kgs per blks

7

cses

10 blocks per case

Happy Cow

69

Recado red

lb

30

lbs

per lb

Local

17

Chicken Sausage

142 g tin

10

cses

48 per case

La Fe

70

Refried Beans

580g tin

8

cses

12 per case

La Costena

18

Chicken consume

12 g sachet

90

cards

12 sachet per card

Mahler

71

Rice

5 lb

42

cses

50 lb per case

Tropic Rice "A"

19

Chopped Ham

12 oz tin

10

cses

24 per case

Dak

72

Salad Cream

600 g bot

8

cses

12 per case

Heinz

20

Coconut milk

400 g tin

12

cses

24 per case

Grace

73

Salsa Casera

220 g tin

2

cses

48 per case

La Costena

21

Coconut powder

3

cses

12 boxes per case

Grace

74

Salt

500 g pk

2

sck

50 pks per sacks

Sol

22

Coconut Oil

1 lt bot

5

cses

12 per case

Grace

75

Season all

lb

16

jr

2 lb per jar

Badia

23

Coffee

180 g bot

7

cses

15 per case

Dolca

76

Shell pasta

200g pk

5

cses

20 per case

Ina

24

Coffee

Oz

2

Bot

42.5 per bot

Maxwell

77

Shortening (Tube)

2 lb

8

cses

12 per case

Regia

25

Complete Seasoning

oz

16

jrs

24 oz per jar

Badia

78

Soy Sauce

5 fl oz

6

cses

12 per case

La Choy

26

Condensed milk

395 g tin

10

cses

48 per case

Nestle

79

Spaghetti

pk

4

cses

20 per case

Ina

27

Cooking Oil

4.6 gal

12

cses

5 gal per case

Marina

80

Spaghetti & Meat Balls

15 oz tin

6

cses

24 per case

Chef Boyardee

28

Corn Beef

12 oz tin

7

cses

24 per case

Grace

81

Split Peas

22 lb bag

6

bgs

22 lbs per bag

Chef Choice

29

Corn Tortillas

lb

100

lbs

Local

82

Sugar White

lb

4

scks

100 lbs per sack

Local

30

Creamer

bot

2

oz

56 oz per bot

Coffee Mate

83

Sugar Brown

lb

2

scks

100 lb per sack

Local

31

Curry powder

lb

2

lbs

1 lb per jar

Local or import

84

Sugar Corn

14.75 g tin

5

cses

24 per case

Del Monte (packed/USA)

32

Custard

box

4

cses

10 per case

Koop Mans

85

Tang juice

packets

5

cses

20 boxes per case

Tang

33

Evaporated milk

378g tin

12

cses

48 per case

Carnation

86

Tea bag

25 per box

2

cse

20 boxes per case

Red Rose

34

Flour

lb

20

scks

100 lb per sack

Babe Agua

87

Tomato paste

100 g pk

6

cses

48 per case

Regia

35

French Worcestershire Sauce

bot

1

cse

12 per case

Worcestershire

88

Vanilla

32 oz bot

6

bot

each

Gary

36

Fruit Cocktail

15 oz tin

5

cses

24 per case

Del Monte (packed/USA)

89

Vinegar

gal

10

cses

4 gal per case

Femagra

37

Garlic Consume

12 g sachet

30

cards

12 sachet per card

Mahler

90

Whole Kernel corn

14.75g tin

3

cses

24 per case

Del Monte

38

Garlic Powder

lb

12

jr

1.5 lb per jar

Badia

91

Yeast (Instant)

4 x 11 g

2

cses

24 per case

Fermipan

39

Gatorade Powder

51 oz bot

4

cses

3 per case

Gatorade

40

Hot dog sausage

12 oz per pk

15

cses

16 per case

Gwaltney

41

Jalapeno pepper

8 oz tin

2

cses

48 per case

Del Monte

42

Jam

16 oz bot

1

cses

24 per case

Del Monte

43

Juice Squash

1 lt bot

4

cses

12 per case

Marie Sharp Orange

44

Juice Squash

4

12 per case

Marie Sharp Tambran

45

Juice Squash

2

Marie Sharp Grapefruit

46

Juice Squash

2

Marie Sharp Fruit Punch

47

Juice Squash

4

Marie Sharp Pineapple

48

Ketchup

24 oz bot

8

cses

12 per case

Del Monte

49

Lemon & Pepper Seasoning Salt

lb

1

jr

2 lb per jar

Badia

50

Luncheon meat (pork)

340 g tin

10

cses

24 per case

51

Macaroni & cheese

177g pk

10

cses

52

Maggie Soup

60 g pk

1

cses

53

Margarine

16 oz tin

1

cs

Badia Kraft

Field ration: 92

Cereal - mini

1.31oz

4

cses

30 per case

Kellogg's

93

Chicken Sausage

142 g tin

3

cses

48 per case

La Fe

94

Chocolate bar (sml)

fun size

1

cse

144 per case

Snicker

95

Corn Beef (small)

7 oz tin

6

cses

24 per case

Grace

96

Mint sweet

bags

2

cses

100 per case

97

Oats (3min pkts)

packets

cses

….. per case

Quaker

98

Granola Bar

1.2 oz

2

cses

50 per case

Nature Valley

99

Pan Creama Biscuit

106gr

4

cses

36 per case

Pan Crema

100

Milk packet Chocolate

10 pkts

1

cse

20 boxes per case

Swiss Miss

101

Noodles - chicken

85g

6

cses

24 per case

Ramen

102

Rice

2 lbs

2

cses

20 lbs per case

Tropic Rice "A"

Grace

103

Sardines

3.75oz

3

cses

50 per case

Bumble Bee

24 per case

Kraft

104

Tang juice

packets

2

cses

20 boxes per case

Tang

12 boxes per case

Maggie

105

Tea bag

25 per box

1

cse

20 boxes per case

Red Rose

24 per case

Wood & Dunn

Continued on page 23

6 MAR

23

THE BELIZE TIMES

2022

TENDER FOR THE SUPPLY OF FOOD ITEMS AND HOUSEHOLD SUNDRIES TO THE BELIZE COAST GUARD YEAR 2022 – 23 Continued from page 22 SUNDRIES TENDERING FOR FISCAL YEAR 2022 - 23 SER Commodities

Units

Qty

Package

Breakdown

Brand

SER

Commodities

Units

1

Air-freshener

10.5 oz tin

4

case

12 per case

Airwick

25

Mop

each

10

ea.

3

Batteries AA

pk

30

pks

4 per pk

Duracell

26

Mosquito coil

each

4

cses

60 per case

4

Batteries AAA

pk

30

pks

2 per pk

Duracell

27

Muratic acid

qt

3

cse

12 per case

5

Batteries D

pk

10

pks

2 per pk

Duracell

28

Off repellent

6 oz tin

12

cse

12 per case

24 per case

29

Oven cleaner

tin

3

cse

12 per case

Easy Off

Local

30

Paper towels

case

4

cse

30 per case

Bounty

31

Plastic bag transparent

1 gal bags

4

case

100 per box

Ziploc

32

Plastic bag transparent

2 gal bags

6

cse

100 per box

Ziploc

33

Pledge

12 oz tin 2

cse

12 per case

Pledge

34

Pot washer

each

45

ea.

36

Scotch brite

12 / 1ct

1

cs

37

Scrubbing brush

each

10

ea.

38

Soap powder

5.5 kg bag

7

cses

4 per case

39

Take out tray large

each

4

cses

100 per case Biodegradable

40

Take out tray small each

3

cses

100 per case Biodegradable

42

Toilet paper

bale

20

bales

12 pks per bale

Softy

43

Trash bags heavy duty

14 gal bags

6

rolls

100 per roll

Lucky

44

Trash bags heavy duty

33 gal bags

8

rolls

100 per roll

Lucky

45

Vehicle air freshener

each

2

cse

24 per case

Dalan

47

Windex

26 oz bot

2

cse

12 per case

Windex

6

Battery water

1/2 lt btl 1

cses

7

Broom (plastic)

each

10

ea

8

Cleaning cloth

pk

50

pks

5 per pk

Magitel

9

Clorox

gal

15

cse

4 per case

Snow White

10

Comet w/bleach

1

cse

12 per case

Comet

12

Dishwashing liquid

750 ml bot

6

cse

12 per case

Axion

13

Disposable cups large

each

10

bgs

50 per bags

Biodegradable

14

Disposable forks

each

10

bgs

50 per bags

Biodegradable

15

Disposable spoon

each

10

bgs

50 per bags

Biodegradable

16

Fish spray

450 ml tin

3

cse

24 per case

Fish

17

Flash disinfectant

1/2 lt tim

12

cse

20 per case

Flash

18

Foil paper

200 sq ft 3 pk

cse

12 per case

Aluminium

19

Hand liquid soap

14 oz bot

4

cse

24 per case

Lucky

20

Harpic

750 ml bot

4

cse

12 per case

Harpic

21

Jumbo paper towel

case

3

cse

12 per case

Local - CPC

22

Jumbo toilet tissue case

2

cse

12 per case

Local - CPC

23

Disinfectant Spray 99.9%

2

cse

12 per case

N/A

12.5 oz tin

MEAT TENDERING FOR FISCAL YEAR 2022 - 23

Qty

Package

Breakdown

Brand

Heavy duty mop Black Off

20 per case Local Foca

48

2 Stroke oil

1 qt

2

cse

12 per case

Havoline

49

4 Stroke oil

1qt

6

cse

12 per case

Castrol 10W30

FRUITS AND VEGETABLES TENDERING FOR FISCAL YEAR 2022 – 23

SER

Commodities

Units

Qty

Breakdown

Brand

1

Beef Steak (Minimal Fat)

lb

300

5lb per bag

SER 6

Commodities Cassava

Units lb

Quantity 15

Package lbs

2

Boneless Ham

lb

30

2lb per bag

7

Cantelope

lb

40

lbs

Local

3

Chicken Ham

lb

30

2lb per bag

8

Celery

lb

50

lbs

Local

Cilantro

lb

12

lbs

Local

Breakdown

Brand Local

4

Breakfast Sausage

24 oz

90

2lb per bag

9

5

Butt Beacon

12 oz

40

2lb per bag

10

Coco

lb

40

lbs

Local

6

Turkey Bacon

lb

100

2lb per bag

11

Cucumber

lb

75

lbs

Local

7

Chicken

lb

3000

5 lbs per chicken

12

Eggs

each

100

Trays

8

Cow Foot

lb

60

5 lb per bag

13

Garlic

head

120

Heads

9

Boneless Chicken Breast

Lb

100

14

Grapefruit

sack

2

sack

15

Lettuce

lb

150

lbs

10

Fresh Fish (scale & deguts)

lb

400

10-inch head to tail

16

Lime

each

400

each

17

Okoro

lbs

10

lbs

11

Ground Steak

lb

200

5lb per bag

18

Onion

lbs

5

sacks

50 lbs per sack

Local

Onion (Red)

lbs

5

sacks

50 lbs per sack

Local

19

Orange

each

6

sack

100 per sack

Local

20

Papaya

lb

40

lbs

Local

21

Pineapple

lb

50

lbs

Local

22

Plantain

each

250

each

Local

23

Potatoes

lbs

12

sack

24

Sweet Pepper

lbs

50

lbs

Local

FRUITS AND VEGETABLES TENDERING FOR FISCAL YEAR 2022 – 23

25

Sweet Potato

lbs

30

lbs

Local

SER

Commodities

Units

Quantity

Package

Breakdown

Brand

26

Tomatoes

lbs

130

lbs

Local

1

Bananas

each

10

box

100 per box

Fyffe's

27

Watermelon

each

160

lbs

Local

28

Callaloo

lb

50

29

Spinach

Lb

30

Lbs

Local

30

Ginger

Lb

20

Lbs

Local

31

Zucchini

lb

50

Lbs

Local

12

Ground Chicken

lb

85

13

Chicken Patty

lb

125

2lb per bag

14

Pigtail

bucket 3

35 lb per bucket

15

Pork Chops (lean)

lb

350

5lb per bag

16

Salami Sausage

lb

40

5lb per bag

17

Buffalo steak

lb

100

5lb per bag

2

Broccoli

lb

50

lbs

3

Cabbage

lb

150

lbs

4

Cauliflower

lb

50

lbs

5

Carrots

lb

130

lbs

Local Local

30 per tray

Local Local

100 per sack

Local Local

each

Local Local

110 lbs per sack

Local

Local

28 24

THE BELIZE TIMES

JAN 14 NOV 62MAR

2022 2021