Belize Times May 16, 2021-Good Governance reform of National Importance

The Belize Times

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THE BELIZE TIMES

16 MAY

2021

Established 1957

16 MAY 2021 | ISSUE NO: 5249

The Truth Shall Make You Free

www.belizetimes.biz | $1.00

GOOD GOVERNANCE REFORM OF NATIONAL IMPORTANCE

Prime Minister John Briceño updated Belize on the negotiations with Unions. The following were detailed in his address to the nation: The Protected Disclosures/Whistleblowers Protection Bill, 2021 The Civil Asset Recovery and Unexplained Wealth Bill, 2021 Campaign Finance Reform Bill Audit of Petrocaribe Funds Rationalization of Public Service

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CONDEMNS MIDDLETON MOTHER & SON MURDERS

We are prepared to undertake the following: • Performance Bonus Option • National Health Insurance for Public Officers • Discounted data packages for teachers • Cash flow relief on loan payments • Waiver of Stamp Duty on Assignment of Residential Mortgages • Special Facilities at DFC and National Bank of Belize • Reduction of Ministers’ Salaries and allowances and • Increments Remain Applicable to Pension Payments • Recovery of Outstanding Tax Arrears • Social Partner Committee My Government respects our Public Officers and Teachers and truly desires a strong, productive working partnership with them.

We are 6 months into a 5-year term of office. There is much work to be done on behalf of the Belizean people.

Working together, we have an opportunity for meaningful change and reform.

Let us embrace that opportunity starting tomorrow.

Let us all get back to the important work of building this, our Beloved Belize.

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MINISTER OF AGRICULTURE CONCLUDES CAYO DISTRICT TOUR AND HEADS TO OW

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BELIZEAN TRAVELLER CAMPAIGN Launched Pg. 2

MIDH DEBUNKED GUARDIAN’S DECEPTIVE POST Pg. 5

18 AND OLDER? BE SAFE AND GET VACCINATED

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16 MAY

THE BELIZE TIMES

PR#283 PRESS RELEASE

Cabinet Brief Belmopan. 12th May 2021. 6:00 p.m.

The Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Hon. John Briceño, met in regular session on 11th May 2021.

• Cabinet received an update from the Ministerial Consultation Team on their recent meetings with the Joint Unions and decided that the Prime Minister will inform the unions of government’s firm position in writing. Additionally, PM Briceño informed that he would address the nation on the position of the Government, as he felt that ALL Belizeans have a right to know the real situation going into this meeting between the parties.

• Cabinet approved the enactment of a modern securities law for Belize that is consistent with international standards. The existence of a comprehensive and sound regulatory framework will enable the much-needed development of a capital market in Belize and bring down the cost of capital by giving potential investors confidence in the Belizean capital market.

• Cabinet gave its approval for the strengthening and upgrading of the National Fire Service of Belize which includes infrastructure improvements in Belize City, Ladyville, Trial Farm, Independence and Placencia villages. In addition, Cabinet gave its approval for the establishment of a National Fire Service Advisory Committee.

• Cabinet gave its approval for the Ministry of Infrastructure Development and Housing to begin the process of incorporating into Belize’s legislative framework standards which will guide the design, planning, permitting and construction of building structures and dwellings in Belize.

• Finally, Cabinet will institute a temporary travel ban on persons who have travelled to or originated from or have transited the Republic of India and the People’s Republic of Bangladesh. This temporary ban is due to the rising numbers of persons in these countries infected with the COVID-19 virus.

2021

MINISTER OF AGRICULTURE CONCLUDES CAYO DISTRICT TOUR AND HEADS TO OW Even something as basic as delivering seedlings in Carmelita and visiting the G & B Ranch is a part of making Belize secure with food whilst at the same time ensuring a heightened level of enterprise. As Tourism moves ahead, Agriculture is keeping pace. Both will eventually bring Belize out of the economic crises imposed on Belizeans— sounds criminal.

Hon. Jose Abelardo Mai, Minister of Agriculture, Food Security and Enterprise, has completed a two-day tour of the Cayo District. The tour is a part of the minister’s familiarization visits to the different agricultural communities and areas across the country.

The tour started on Tuesday, May 4, with a handing over of materials valued at BZ$25,000, including two covered structures complete with an irrigation system and an assortment of vegetable seeds donated by AgroVet Jiron and Sons, Limited. The tour then proceeded on visits to the well-known agricultural communities

of Springfield, Valley of Peace and Upper Barton Creek.

On Wednesday, May 5, day two of the tour, Minister Mai and his contingent travelled to the Vaca area to meet with livestock farmers and sign a memorandum of understanding as a part of the handing over of a cattle scale to the farmers for use in the livestock trade. The tour continued to San Antonio Village to visit the San Antonio Women’s Cooperative and concluded with a visit to the Pozo Maya farm owned by Mr. Dan Lopez.

Minister Mai was accompanied

by Hon. Jorge ‘Milin’ Espat and Hon. Alex Balona, area representatives for Cayo West and Cayo Central, respectively; Servulo Baeza, CEO in the ministry; and technical staff of the Ministry of Agriculture.

Minister Mai will visit other areas of the country in the upcoming months to complete his tour of Belize.

Ends

BTB LAUNCHES BELIZEAN TRAVELLER CAMPAIGN TO BOOST DOMESTIC TOURISM Thursday, May 13, 2020 – The Belize Tourism Board (BTB) today launched its Belizean Traveller Campaign – the organization’s signature event that aims to boost domestic tourism by encouraging Belizeans to be tourists in their own country.

In addition, the campaign aims to create Belizean awareness of the country’s regions, namely Northern Belize, Northern Islands and Reef, Central Coast, Western Belize, Southeast Coast and Southern Belize. The campaign also highlights the destination’s scenery and culture as the perfect menu for rejuvenation, adventure and exploration.

At the official launch held at the Best Western Biltmore Plaza Hotel, Mr. Evan Tillett, Chairman of the BTB’s Board of Directors said, “this year’s campaign takes on a new life as it evolves from a summer campaign to an essential part of BTB’s unfading marketing messages and promotions throughout this year. The BTB is

committed to developing domestic tourism in a meaningful and sustainable way and as an exceptional platform for year round tourism.”

As part of its marketing strategy, the BTB will be collaborating with five local, well-known influencers, namely: Olujawon Cadle - Captain Cadle, a fierce entertainer using humorous videos based in trending events in Belize; Sean Kuylen, top Belizean Chef well known for his culinary skills; Benjamin Flowers, a passionate journalist working for BREAKING NEWS; Duane Moody, a captivating media personality at Ch. 5 and Thamar Jones, an inspiring media personality at Love News.

The influencers will promote the campaign via their social media posts, video diaries and trivia. Influencer take overs and FB polls will be used to further engage audiences. The storytelling of experiences by the influencers will

be shared via dedicated news segments through various broadcast mediums. In addition, the campaign will be promoted on BTB’s Belizean Traveller Facebook page where Belizeans will be able to obtain the latest updates.

In order to entice Belizeans to travel, the BTB has also joined forces with industry partners such as the Belize Hotel Association (BHA) and Belizing.com to offer the best deals at highly affordable prices. As part of these promotion packages, Belizeans can get a room in San Pedro for as low as $110 Bz. Likewise, in Placencia a suite can be obtained for as low as $125 Bz. And it gets even better. A room in Cayo can be obtained for as low as $80.00 per night or $119 Bz. dollars in the Stann Creek District.

These packages are now being promoted and can be booked via www.belizebooking. com Belize is an oasis of fun, relaxation and adventure, so diverse, so unique and in many ways, so captivating. Our rich history and culture, our diverse cuisine; our ancient Mayan cities, a world class cave system and our beautiful cayes is our very own backyard to enjoy. The BTB therefore encourages all Belizeans to know and experience their ‘backyard’. In doing so, they will assist us to rebuild our tourism industry to pre-Covid numbers working in partnership with our valued stakeholders as mandated by the Belize’s Tourism Recovery Plan.

The Belize Times

Established 1957

14 APR 2013

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ISSUE NO: 4840

The Truth Shall Make You Free

www.belizetimes.bz

|

$1.00

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Email: belizetimesadvertisement@yahoo.com

16 MAY

THE BELIZE TIMES

2021

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EDITORIAL “To IMF Or Not to IMF?”That Is the Question!

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efore we answer the pressing question before us “To IMF or Not to IMF?” We must consider the backdrop against which it rests. Belize is in financial shambles and is on the precipice of almost certain economic chaos. This is the direct result of mismanagement of Belize’s assets, the botching of fiscal and monetary policy, the hyper expansion of the public workforce and mostly the incessant borrowing for bloated contracts to the ravenous cronies. Prudent management was never a consideration to be bothered with because the myopic leader at the helm of our country had only his narcissistic vision of personal legacy as his goal. To achieve this superficial and selfish ambition he “borrowed” and spent prolifically. He threw an elaborate fiesta for all his friends and never intended to be around when the bill was brought to the table to be paid.

So, do we go “Homegrown” or IMF? The case for the International Monetary Fund (IMF) from the standpoint of the bondholders seems to be a logical route. Belize is a serial defaulter, a term which is not in the least flattering nor endearing. However, embarrassing it is, we have got to admit it is true. In an online interview, a bondholder recently stated that there have always been very good excuses for the five times this debt has been restructured. Each time the bondholders have been expected to take the proverbial hit.

The IMF would provide the bondholders with the confidence that this time around Belize will live up to its promises and pay what they owe. The homegrown approach does not provide the bondholders with any security because Belize has been on this regime and has defaulted and restructured as many as five times.

Clearly, this approach has not been successful. Minister Chris Coye agrees that there is a commonality of goals between the two approaches, but it is in their implementation where there are marked differences.

Whichever approach is used in the end, the need for fiscal restructuring is evident. Minister Coye explains that the National Budget for the current fiscal year presupposes that there will be a debt restructuring. He has also made it very clear that postponing the inevitability of repaying our debts makes those debts expand and become even more burdensome and unmanageable. He illustrates it by stating that in fact, the bond now in question has grown since 2008 from 1B to 1.1B. Payments on interest-only are losses for Belize and are just “kicking the can down the street.” This is not a good debt management policy, and the previous administration was irresponsible to allow to continue for over a decade. Belize seeks a restructuring of its debt for several reasons. It seeks debt sustainability which as Minister Coye says will “allow us to recover and transform the economy.” It will also give us “fiscal space and rebalance to make our debt sustainable.”

So, the answer to the question…IMF or not? It depends entirely on whose side you are on. The bondholder, tired of waiting to cash in on an investment they made in the development of Belize, wants the IMF. This is the most reliable course to get their return on investment. The IMF has a reputation of being hard and rigid like a bukut on small, vulnerable, developing countries like Belize. There are several methods that they use to discipline serial defaulters, retrenchment, devaluation of currency and increases in GST. Already these have been suggested as possible options to raise the monies needed for debt restructuring by the IMF. However, as Minister Coye declared in a recent virtual interview…if you are of the belief that “Belize comes first, our people come first…” then IMF is not for you. Sure, the IMF will make certain that we raise the money to pay, but those that will be taxed even more are already at the breaking point. Do we really want to add another three thousand people to the ridiculous unemployment rates we already have?

Do we really need to take the GST to 19.5% amid the pandemic we face? The situation is grave. If we do not come together and act in the best interest of our country, it will be too late. By going the homegrown route, we can decide for ourselves what our priorities are and avoid undue hardship on ourselves.

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THE BELIZE TIMES

EDITORIAL

2021

en Español

¿”Al FMI o no al FMI”?: ¡esa es la cuestión!

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16 MAY

ntes de responder a la apremiante pregunta que se nos plantea ¿” Intervenir en el FMI o no hacerlo”? debemos considerar el telón de fondo sobre el que descansa. Belice es un desastre financiero y está al borde de un caos económico casi seguro. Esto es el resultado directo de la mala gestión de los activos de Belice, la chapuza de la política fiscal y monetaria, la hiperextensión de la fuerza de trabajo pública y, sobre todo, el incesante endeudamiento para contratos hinchados a los voraces compinches. La gestión prudente nunca fue una consideración a tener en cuenta porque el líder miope que dirigía nuestro país sólo tenía como objetivo su visión narcisista del legado personal. Para lograr esta ambición superficial y egoísta, derrochó y gastó prolíficamente. Organizó una elaborada fiesta para todos sus amigos y nunca tuvo la intención de estar presente cuando la cuenta se llevará a la mesa para ser pagada.

Entonces, ¿le vamos a lo “autóctono” o al FMI? El caso del Fondo Monetario Internacional (FMI), desde el punto de vista de los tenedores de bonos, parece ser la ruta lógica. Belice es un moroso en serie, un término que no es en absoluto halagador ni entrañable. Sin embargo, por vergonzoso que sea, hay que admitir que es cierto. En una entrevista en línea, un tenedor de bonos declaró recientemente que siempre ha habido muy buenas excusas para las cinco veces que se ha reestructurado esta deuda. Cada vez se ha esperado que los tenedores de bonos aguanten el proverbial golpe. El FMI proporcionaría a los tenedores de bonos la confianza del que esta vez Belice cumplirá sus promesas y pagará lo que debe. El enfoque domestico no proporciona a los tenedores de bonos ninguna seguridad porque Belice ha estado en este régimen y ha incumplido y reestructurado cinco veces. Está claro que este enfoque no ha tenido éxito. El ministro Chris Coye está de acuerdo en que hay objetivos comunes entre los dos enfoques, pero es en su aplicación donde hay marcadas diferencias.

Sea cual sea el enfoque que se utilice al final, la necesidad de una reestructuración fiscal es evidente. El Ministro Coye explica que el Presupuesto Nacional para el actual ejercicio fiscal presupone que habrá una reestructuración de la deuda. También ha dejado muy claro que posponer la inevitabilidad del pago de nuestras deudas hace que éstas se amplíen y se vuelvan aún más gravosas e inmanejables. Lo ilustra afirmando que, de hecho, el bono en cuestión ha crecido desde 2008 de 1.000 a 1.100 millones. El pago de los intereses sólo es una pérdida para Belice y no es más que “darle largas al asunto”. Esa no es una buena política de gestión de la deuda y la administración anterior fue irresponsable al permitir que continuara durante más de una década. Belice busca una reestructuración de su deuda por varias razones. Busca la sostenibilidad de la deuda que, como dice el ministro Coye, “nos permitirá recuperar y transformar la economía”. También nos dará “espacio fiscal y reequilibrio para hacer sostenible nuestra deuda”.

Entonces, la respuesta de la pregunta... ¿FMI o no? Depende totalmente de qué lado estés. El tenedor de bonos, cansado de esperar cobrar una inversión que hizo en el desarrollo de Belice, quiere al FMI. Es la vía más fiable para recuperar su inversión. El FMI tiene fama de ser duro y rígido como un bukut con los países pequeños, vulnerables y en desarrollo como Belice. Hay varios métodos que utilizan para disciplinar a los morosos en serie; el recorte, la devaluación de la moneda y el aumento del IVA. Ya se han sugerido como posibles opciones para recaudar el dinero necesario para la reestructuración de la deuda por parte del FMI. Sin embargo, como declaró el ministro Coye en una reciente entrevista virtual... si usted cree que “Belice es lo primero, nuestra gente es lo primero...”, el FMI no es para usted. Claro, el FMI se asegurará de que recaudemos el dinero para pagar, pero los que serán gravados aún más ya están en el punto de ruptura. ¿Realmente queremos añadir otras tres mil personas a las ridículas tasas de desempleo que ya tenemos? ¿Realmente necesitamos llevar el IVA al 19,5% en medio de la pandemia a la que nos enfrentamos?

La situación es grave. Si no nos unimos ni actuamos en el mejor interés de nuestro país, será demasiado tarde. Si tomamos la vía de la economía doméstica, podremos decidir por nosotros mismos cuáles son nuestras prioridades y evitar que nos veamos en apuros indebidos.

16 MAY

05 5

THE BELIZE TIMES

2021

MINISTRY OF INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT & HOUSING Power Lane, Belmopan City, Belize C.A.

Tel. 501-822-2136 Fax. 501-822-3282 Email: ceo.secretary@mow.gov.bz

May 11th, 2021

REF: MIDH/ GEN/4/21 (162) REF: MIDH/ GEN/4/21 (162)

For Immediate Release The Office of the Special Envoy for the Development of Families & Children Condemns the Murder of Kendra Middleton and her son, Aiden Middleton

The Office of the Special Envoy for the Development of Families condemns the horrendous murder of Kendra Middleton and her 3-year-old son Aiden Middleton. The Office join in solidarity with Mrs. Middleton’s family, with the Ministry of Human Development, Families & Indigenous People’s Affairs, and with all Belizeans who say “no” to violence and all forms of discrimination against our women and children. Violence against women and children is violence against every Belizean and it has no place in Belize! While we recognize the considerable progress Belize has made with regard to legislation and actions to combat violence against women and children, it is nonetheless alarming that recent data shows that violence against our women and children are still pervasive and in fact is increasing, particularly with the onset of the pandemic.

As a society, we are still far achieving our goal of gender equality in Belize. The Office of the Special Envoy for the Development of Children and Families stands committed to working tirelessly with our partners and will use the power and resources of the Office to strengthen our legal frameworks and institutions for the effective persecution and punishment, and where possible the rehabilitation, of the perpetrators, to improve services for survivors, and to promote women and family empowerment so as to ensure every Belizean woman can live freely and safely, equal in value and equal in rights, within their home, their community, and their country.

More importantly, as your Special Envoy for Families and Children, I call on every Belizean to help prevent, openly reject and condemn all acts of violence against our women and children and to support and protect the victims, especially in the healing and rehabilitation process. This requires a firm commitment not only at institutional level. It requires a broad involvement of our NGOs, of our civil society at large, the private sector and at every level of our society. But most of all, it requires the firm commitment of all our men! Each Belizean, especially our men, can help to challenge gender stereotypes, harmful traditional and cultural practices, and discrimination.

END.

DATE: May11,2021 DATE: May11,2021

The Ministry of lnfrastructure Development and Housing (MIDH) noted a Facebook post and The ofNewspaper lnfrastructure Development and Housing (MIDH) video clip Ministry on the Guardian website alleging misuse of the Ministry's equipment involved with clearing of private landpost in Ranchito Corozal noted a Facebook andVillage, video clipDistrict. on the Guardian Newspaper We wish to clarify this very misleading information which was deceptively posted on public website alleging misuse of the Ministry’s MINISTRY OF equipment involved with media implying that Government resources is being misused and abused by the MIDH. INFRASTRUCTURE clearing private landthat in on Ranchito Village, Corozal District.

Theof Public is informed April 20, 2021, the Chairman of Ranchito Village Council DEVELOPMENT HOUSING We to clarify this very misleading information whichfor was dewrote the wish MIDH requesting assistance in clearing two&parcels of land which are intended use by Powerand Belmopan City, residents of the Village as a cemetery playground.

The MIDH was receptive to the request since it ceptively posted on public Lane, media implying that Government resourcproviding a community service to the Belize village andC.A. is wholly within our legal mandate to maintain esispublic is being misused and abused byFax. the MIDH. 501-822-2136 501-822-3282 assets and repair Tel. village streets.

Email: ceo.secretary@mow.gov.bz The Public informed ontheApril 20, 2021, the Chairman Based on theis Village Council’sthat request, Ministry programmed the assistance for theof period May 312, 2021 Council which involves the clearing the two parcels of land andassistance repairs to villagein Ranchito Village wrote the ofMIDH requesting streets. Ourtwo equipment is currently in Ranchito repairing village streets as per our approved work clearing parcels of land REF: MIDH/ GEN/4/21 (162) which are intended for use by residents program. of the The Village as a cemetery and playground. The MIDH was receptive new administration of the MIDH wishes to assure the general public that improved DATE: May11,2021 tointernal the request since ithave is been providing community service to the the village operating procedures introduceda since November, 2020 to control misuse of government equipment by its personnel and any misuse will be dealt with swiftly in compliance and isThe wholly within our legal mandate to maintain public assets and Ministry of lnfrastructure Development and Housing (MIDH) noted a Facebook post with and currentclip regulations and internal procedures. video on the Guardian Newspaper website alleging misuse of the Ministry's equipment involved repair village streets.

The Ministry’s legalinmandate repairs and maintenance of public infrastructure with clearing of private land Ranchitoprovides Village,for Corozal District.

Based on the Village Council’s request, the Ministry programmed within We Villages we assure the misleading public that information despite the which misinformation that exists in the public wish and to clarify this very was deceptively posted on public the assistance for the period May 312, 2021 which involves domainimplying the Ministry will continue to utilize its limited resources for the betterment the of media that Government resources is being misusedallocated and abused by the MIDH. villagesThe andof communities across the country of20, Belize. clearing theis two parcels of land andtherepairs streets.

Our Public informed that on April 2021, Chairmanto of village Ranchito Village Council wrote the MIDHisrequesting assistance in clearing two parcels of land whichstreets are intended use by equipment currently in Ranchito repairing village asforper our residents ofRespectfully, the Village as a cemetery and playground. The MIDH was receptive to the request since it approved work program. is providing a community service to the village and is wholly within our legal mandate to maintain The new administration public assets and repair village streets. of the MIDH wishes to assure the general the Village Council’s the Ministry programmed the assistance the public Based that onimproved internalrequest, operating procedures have beenforintroperiodief May 3- 12, November, 2021 which involves the clearing of the twothe parcels of land and to village Enginee duced since 2020 to control misuse ofrepairs government Ministry of lnfr streets.

Our equipment is currently in Ranchito repairing village streets as per our approved work equipment by its personnel and any misuse will be dealt with swiftly and Housing program. in compliance with current The new administration of the regulations MIDH wishes toand assureinternal the generalprocedures. public that improved internal procedures have been introduced provides since November, to control the misuse of Theoperating Ministry’s legal mandate for2020 repairs and maintegovernment equipment by its personnel and any misuse will be dealt with swiftly in compliance with nance of public infrastructure within Villages and we assure the public current regulations and internal procedures. that despite the misinformation that exists in the public domain the The Ministry’s legal mandate provides for repairs and maintenance of public infrastructure Ministry willand continue to public utilize limited allocated that resources the within Villages we assure the thatits despite the misinformation exists in thefor public domain the Ministry will continue utilize its limited allocated for the betterment of betterment of villages andto communities acrossresources the country of Belize. villages and communities across the country of Belize.

Respectfully, Respectfully,

ief Enginee Ministry of lnfr and Housing

ALASKA AIRLINES ANNOUNCES NONSTOP SERVICE TO BELIZE BELIZE CITY, BELIZE, Wednesday, May 12, 2021 – The Belize Tourism Board is pleased to announce that Alaska Airlines has confirmed new non-stop service from the West Coast of the United States to Belize, commencing later this year. Belize will become the fourth country that Alaska Airlines flies to from its West Coast hubs, joining Canada, Mexico and Costa Rica. Routes and schedules to Belize will be announced when ticket sales begin in early June.

“Our guests are eager for eco-friendlier leisure destinations, especially as they get vaccinated, and we’re ready to offer them terrific options,” said Brett Catlin, Alaska Airlines Vice President of Network and Alliances. “Belize offers an unbeatable mix of sen-

sational beaches, iconic cayes and rich heritage.”

“We wholeheartedly welcome Alaska Airlines’ announcement of its nonstop flight to Belize. This new partnership signifies that our unwavering commitment to revive and rebuild our tourism industry is gaining momentum and recovery is on the horizon. Air connectivity is the life-blood of our industry and is essential in making Belize accessible to international visitors and stimulating growth.” stated Minister of Tourism and Diaspora Relations, Hon. Anthony Mahler.

Alaska Airlines is a major American airline headquartered in SeaTac, Washington, within the Seattle metropolitan area. It is the fifth largest airline in the United States when measured by

fleet size, scheduled passengers carried, and the number of destinations served. Alaska Airlines, together with its regional partners Horizon Air and SkyWest Airlines, operate a large domestic route network, primarily focused on connecting the Pacific Northwest and Alaska to over one hundred destinations in the contiguous United States, Hawaii, Canada, Costa Rica, and Mexico.

Belize Removes Use of the Belize Travel Health App Prior to Arrival Tuesday, May 11, 2021 –– The Belize Tourism Board (BTB) advises that the Government of Belize has taken a decision that travellers entering the country are no longer required to download and complete

the Belize Travel Health App prior to arrival in Belize. This recent adjustment to Belize’s COVID-19 Prevention Regulations is outlined in Statutory Instrument No.51 of 2021.

Belize still requires that travellers provide either proof of full COVID-19 immunization received at least 2 weeks prior to arrival, or a negative COVID-19 PCR TEST taken within 96 hours of travel, or a negative rapid test (Rapid Antigen, Sofia, SD Biosensor, and ABBOTT) taken within 48 hours of travel. In addition, international tourists must book at a Gold Standard hotel and present confirmation at immigration.

The Belize Tourism Board thanks our visitors for choosing Belize and we look forward to welcoming you. For up to date information on the destination’s travel protocols, services and frequently asked questions, please visit: https://www.travelbelize.org.

6 06

16 MAY

THE BELIZE TIMES

2021

NOTICE OF COMMENCEMENT OF DISSOLUTION Notice is hereby given to all interested parties that the company Netstor Technology Co., Ltd. (“the Company”) incorporated under the IBC Act of Belize commenced dissolution on the 30th day of April, 2021;

and Yu, Wen-Hua of No. 2, Aly. 35, Ln. 142, Sec. 2, Xingnan Rd., Zhonghe Dist., New Taipei City, Taiwan, R.O.C. is the Liquidator of the Company, and any claims against the company should be forwarded to the Liquidator within 30 days from commencement.

GenPro Consulting (Belize) Limited.

Registered Agent

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

Date

ZENITEC INTERNATIONAL CO., LTD.

21st April, 2021

ROUND GLOBE INT'L INC.

21st April, 2021

PCC International Corp.

21st April, 2021

CARTOON

GenPro Consulting (Belize) Limited Registered Agent

Belize Electricity Limited advises its customers in the Orange Walk and Corozal Districts that the supply of electricity will be temporarily interrupted as follows:

Date: Sunday, May 16, 2021 Time: 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Area: entire Orange Walk District and portion of the Corozal District including Buena Vista and Caledonia. Two 30-minute outages from 7:00 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. will also affect entire Corozal District.

BEL apologizes for the inconvenience caused. This scheduled power outage is necessary for our teams to conduct upgrades on high voltage power lines, replace utility poles and conduct maintenance of the Orange Walk Substation.

Call Toll Free, 24 Hours 0-800-BEL-CARE OR 0-800-235-2273 for customer inquiries and information on power interruptions. belcare@bel.com.bz

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www.bel.com.bz

16 MAY

2021

07 7

THE BELIZE TIMES National Address by

Prime Minister

JOHN BRICEÑO May 12, 2021

My fellow Belizeans, as you are aware since February, Government has been in consultations with the Joint Unions.

Today, I wish to provide the Nation with an update on these consultations and discussions. In February 2021, in pursuance of our commitment to good governance, my administration initiated a budget consultation process with social partners including the churches, non-governmental organizations, the business community and the unions, with a view to receive budgetary recommendations from each of the social partners.

Given the state of public finances and the severe fiscal imbalance inherited from the past UDP administration, the Government indicated to all social partners, including but not limited to the unions, that substantial measures would have to be taken including: One - reduction of goods and services expenditures by at least 15 percent, Two - debt restructuring to achieve debt relief and bring down debt servicing obli-

gations, Three - prioritized capital spending, revenue enhancement measures and Four - a salary adjustment of approximately 60 million dollars along with the increment freeze of roughly 20 million dollars for up to three fiscal years.

After conducting such consultations, and after requisite consultations were duly had by the Minister of Public Service, the Minister, noting the dire state of public finances and the need for urgent fiscal rebalancing, informed that, among other things, he will be advising His Excellency the Governor General to fix the salaries and privileges of the employees or other persons or groups within the public service with a reduction of 10 percent for salaries equal to or over Twelve Thousand Dollars.

The General Revenue Appropriations Act, 2021, which contained approved budget estimates that provided for salary adjustments among other adjustments, was thereafter duly enacted as of the 6th May 2021.

Even as these consultations were ongoing, the Unions declared their intention to engage in Industrial Strike Action and have followed through on that declaration of intent. Despite our deep disappointment with this decision taken by the Unions, Cabinet instructed our Ministerial Consultation Team to continue to meet and dialogue with the Joint Unions in a good faith effort to arrive at a resolution that would serve the national interest. These efforts have led us to where we are today.

Today I signed and sent to the Joint Unions a Letter of Government’s Undertakings which sets out in clear and specific detail each and every action our Government is committed to taking along with our Social Partners, including the Unions, to advance our shared commitment to good governance and fiscal sustainability.

Given the national importance of this matter, I will now share with you the details of these undertakings:

First Good Governance Reform

The Protected Disclosures/Whistleblowers Protection Bill, 2021 The Government fully endorses the need for whistleblowers’ legislation to protect from civil, criminal and disciplinary proceedings persons who report improper conduct such as commission of a criminal offence and conduct that shows gross mismanagement, impropriety or misconduct in the carrying out of any activity that involves the use of public funds.

To that end, the Government has drafted the Protected Disclosures/Whistleblower Protection Bill, has delivered such draft to the Unions and the business community and undertakes to the public that upon receipt of comments from the Unions by no later than May 18, 2021, it shall cause to be tabled before the House of Representatives by the end of June 2021 with a view to enactment thereof by the end of July, 2021.

The Civil Asset Recovery and Unexplained Wealth Bill, 2021 Recognizing the grossly negligent and corrupt behaviour of public officials in the past in the acquisition, management, handling and disposal of public assets, the Government fully supports the establishment of a law that provides for recovery of public assets wrongfully acquired or disposed of, including the provision for unexplained wealth orders against those persons whose total wealth exceeds the value of their wealth lawfully obtained.

In that respect, consistent with the Unions’ request, the Government has drafted the Civil Asset Recovery and Unexplained Wealth Bill, and delivered the draft bill to the Unions and the business community. Upon receipt of comments from the Unions, which should be no later than the 8 of June 2021, it shall cause to be tabled before the House of Representatives. We hope to have this bill enacted by the end of July of this year.

Campaign Finance Reform Bill Government supports the Unions’ request for the enactment of a campaign finance law.

This is in line with this administration’s Plan Belize Manifesto to return principle and probity to public life.

The Government is now in receipt of draft campaign finance reform legislation from both the business community and the Unions and has tasked the Attorney General’s Ministry to review the draft legislation and to develop a draft Campaign Finance Reform Bill by the end of August 2021.

Audit of Petrocaribe Funds Government shall conduct a comprehensive audit of the use of Petrocaribe funds by the past UDP-led administration.

Rationalization of Public Service Government will complete on an expedited basis the ongoing rationalization of public service exercise. Numerous measures were proposed to public officers and teachers directly affected by the salary adjustment and increment freeze.

Some of these that have not been accepted by the Unions include as follows: Reduction of work week by 5 hours or more than ten percent of the work week.

The issuance of a land credit in favour of affected public officers and teachers equivalent to 50 percent of the salary adjustment, which credit may be exercisable on the acquisition of government land by the holder of the land credit.

For affected public officers who already own land, the credit could have been used in settlement of outstanding land taxes owing by the affected public officer.

The land credit though not assignable would have been applicable in favour of immediate family members, namely, spouses and children of the affected public officer.

Let me say again, Government remains committed to ease the adverse effects of the salary adjustment and increment freeze on affected public officers and teachers.

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We are prepared to undertake the following: • Performance Bonus Option • National Health Insurance for Public Officers • Discounted data packages for teachers • Cash flow relief on loan payments • Waiver of Stamp Duty on Assignment of Residential Mortgages • Special Facilities at DFC and National Bank of Belize • Reduction of Ministers’ Salaries and allowances and • Increments Remain Applicable to Pension Payments Performance Bonus -- Government shall pay in the form of an annual bonus, after the close of each of the current and next 2 fiscal years, any amounts that exceed the relevant annual Primary Balance Target. The Primary Balance Targets established in the Recovery Plan are as follows: Year 1, FY 2021/22, Primary Balance Target is a deficit of 2.9% of GDP Year 2, FY 2022/23, Primary Balance Target is a surplus of 1.99% of GDP Year 3, FY 2023/24, Primary Balance Target is a surplus of 3.75% of GDP The Performance Bonus Option incentivizes all budget stakeholders to focus on the common and beneficial goal of achieving the critical Primary Balance Targets of Government’s Recovery Plan.

The features of the Performance Bonus Option are as follows: [1] The Performance Bonus, which is the equivalent of any overperformance as compared to the Primary Balance Target, will be paid on a pro-rata basis to all affected teachers and public officers as a single payment.

[2] The maximum cumulative Performance Bonus payment will be BZ$60m per year, representing the estimated foregone salary and increments for a single budget period.

[3] Where the Primary Balance Target is not achieved, there will be no Performance Bonus payment.

For example, IF in Year 1, the actual primary balance is a deficit of 1.9% of GDP (compared to a target of a deficit of 2.9% of GDP), therefore 1% of GDP above the target, and this 1% represents $35m, and then $35m would be available for performance bonus payment distribution to all affected teachers and public officers.

[4] Bonus payments, where applicable, will be made within 90 days of the close of the budget year.

National Health Insurance for Public Officers -- By no later than fiscal year 2023/2024, Government will establish a contributory health insurance scheme for public officers that covers medical, dental and vision care along with an ancillary death benefit. Government will contribute 80% of the insurance premiums while participating public officers will contribute 20%.

Discounted Data Package for Teachers -- Government, through the Ministry of Education, has reached agreement with BTL for BTL to provide a fifty percent (50%) discounted 25GB data package to teachers.

Cash Flow Relief on Loan Payments -- The Central Bank of Belize has issued guidance to the banks and credit unions to extend the forbearance period on residential mortgages including those held by affected public officers and teachers to the end of this year. Continued efforts will be made to urge leniency by banks and credit unions on residential mortgages including waiver of penalty fees whether on refinancing, transfer of loans or otherwise.

Waiver of Stamp Duty on Assignment of Residential Mortgages -- Cabinet has approved and a draft bill is being prepared to be tabled to the National Assembly for enactment of the waiver of stamp duties on the assignment of residential mortgages held by public officers and teachers.

Special Facilities at DFC and National Bank of Belize -- Government will ensure that the Development Finance Corporation and the National Bank of Belize makes available special facilities of in or about $3mn to $5mn per institution for public officers and teachers for residential mortgages at preferred rates.

Reduction of Ministers’ Salaries -- Ministers, Ministers of State and area representatives will be subject to an increased total salary reduction of 15%. Ministers, Ministers of State and CEOs will also surrender 50% of entertainment and telephone allowances. It is understood that heads of department will continue to surrender their allowances as already agreed in fiscal year 2020/2021.

Increments Remain Applicable to Pension Payments -- Pension benefits of directly affected public officers and teachers shall be computed on the basis of emoluments that would have been applicable if the increment freeze had not been implemented.

Other Government Initiatives include Recovery of Outstanding Tax Arrears Noting substantial arears of business tax, general sales tax, income tax and land tax, the Government will establish an integrated Tax Recovery Unit under the Belize Tax Services Department that will be tasked with aggressive recovery of all lawfully due outstanding tax arrears. A project steering committee has already been established with representatives from the Ministry of Finance, Belize Tax Services Department and the Ministry of Natural Resources with a view make such necessary amendments to the applicable laws to enable the establishment and effective functionality of such unit.

In addition, technical assistance is being procured therefor and for the establishment of a Revenue Court to support revenue/tax collection and enforcement of applicable tax laws.

Social Partnership Committee Government will establish a social partnership advisory committee comprised of representatives of the Government, NTUCB, the Churches, the business community and the non-governmental organizations, with its first meeting to be held by October, 2021. The purpose of the Committee will be to provide recommendations on revenue enhancement, cost savings, tax reform and consumer protection. Subcommittees may be established for each of these particular areas of scope. The Government will provide updates on the state of public finances to this Committee every six months, starting with the first update at the first meeting of the Committee in October of this year.

Tomorrow (May 13) our Ministerial team will meet with the Joint Unions to get their response to these undertakings. It is my sincere hope that our Union Leaders and their members will appreciate and understand that our Government has exhausted every option in an effort to responsibly address the very serious and important issues and concerns raised by them over these past months.

This is our last, best effort.

My Government respects our Public Officers and Teachers and truly desires a strong, productive working partnership with them.

We are 6 months into a 5-year term of office. There is much work to be done on behalf of the Belizean people. Working together, we have an opportunity for meaningful change and reform.

Let us embrace that opportunity starting tomorrow.

Let us all get back to the important work of building this, our Beloved Belize.

I thank you.

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099

THE BELIZE TIMES Discurso del

Primer Ministro de Belice

EL HON. JOHN BRICEÑO

Sobre las Negociaciones con los Sindicatos 12 de Mayo 2021 Mis compatriotas beliceños, como saben, desde febrero el Gobierno ha mantenido consultas con los Sindicatos Mixtos. Hoy deseo ofrecer a la nación una actualización de estas consultas y debates.

En febrero de 2021, en cumplimiento de nuestro compromiso con la buena gobernanza, mi administración inició un proceso de consulta presupuestaria con los interlocutores sociales, incluidas las iglesias, las organizaciones no gubernamentales, la comunidad empresarial y los sindicatos, con vistas a recibir recomendaciones presupuestarias de cada uno de los interlocutores sociales.

Dada la situación de las finanzas públicas y el grave desequilibrio fiscal heredado de la pasada administración UDP, el Gobierno indicó a todos los interlocutores sociales, incluidos los sindicatos, pero sin limitarse a ellos, que habría que tomar medidas sustanciales, entre ellas Uno - reducción del gasto en bienes y servicios de al menos el 15%, Dos - reestructuración de la deuda para lograr una reducción de la misma y disminuir las obligaciones del servicio de la deuda, Tres - priorizar el gasto de capital, medidas de mejora de los ingresos y Cuatro - un ajuste salarial de aproximadamente 60 millones de dólares junto con la congelación de los incrementos de aproximadamente 20 millones de dólares durante un máximo de tres años fiscales.

Tras realizar dichas consultas y después de que el Ministro de la Función Pública realizara las consultas necesarias, el Ministro, observando el grave estado de las finanzas públicas y la necesidad de un reequilibrio fiscal urgente, informó de que, entre otras cosas, aconsejará a Su Excelencia el Gobernador General que fije los salarios y privilegios de los empleados u otras personas o grupos dentro de la función pública con una reducción del 10 por ciento para los salarios iguales o superiores a doce mil dólares.

La Ley de Asignación de Ingresos Generales de 2021, que contenía las estimaciones presupuestarias aprobadas que preveían, entre otros, ajustes salariales, se promulgó debidamente a partir del 6 de mayo de 2021. Incluso cuando estas consultas estaban en curso, los sindicatos declararon su intención de participar en una huelga industrial y han seguido esa declaración de intenciones.

A pesar de nuestra profunda decepción con esta decisión tomada por los sindicatos, el Consejo de Ministros dio instrucciones a nuestro equipo de consulta ministerial para que siguiera reuniéndose y dialogando con los sindicatos mixtos en un esfuerzo de buena fe para llegar a una resolución que sirviera al interés nacional.

Estos esfuerzos nos han llevado hasta donde estamos hoy.

Hoy he firmado y enviado a los Sindicatos Mixtos una Carta de Compromisos del Gobierno en la que se exponen de forma clara y específica todas y cada una de las medidas que nuestro Gobierno se compromete a adoptar junto con nuestros interlocutores sociales, incluidos los sindicatos, para avanzar en nuestro compromiso compartido de buena gobernanza y sostenibilidad fiscal.

Dada la importancia nacional de este asunto, comparto con ustedes los detalles de estos compromisos:

Primera reforma de la buena gobernanza

El proyecto de ley de protección de los denunciantes de irregularidades de 2021.

El Gobierno respalda plenamente la necesidad de contar con una legislación de denunciantes que proteja de los procedimientos civiles, penales y disciplinarios a las personas que denuncien conductas indebidas, como la comisión de un delito penal y conductas que demuestren una mala gestión, incorrección o mala conducta grave en la realización de cualquier actividad que implique el uso de fondos públicos.

A tal efecto, el Gobierno ha redactado el proyecto de ley de protección de los denunciantes, ha entregado dicho proyecto a los sindicatos y a la comunidad empresarial y se compromete a que, una vez recibidos los comentarios de los sindicatos a más tardar el 18 de mayo de 2021, hará que se presente ante la Cámara de Representantes a finales de junio de 2021 con vistas a su promulgación a finales de julio de 2021.

El Proyecto de Ley de Recuperación de Activos Civiles y Riqueza Inexplicable, 2021: Reconociendo el comportamiento gravemente negligente y corrupto de los funcionarios públicos en el pasado en la adquisición, gestión, manejo y disposición de los activos públicos, el Gobierno apoya plenamente el establecimiento de una ley que prevea la recuperación de los activos públicos adquiridos o enajenados ilícitamente, incluyendo la disposición de órdenes de riqueza inexplicable contra aquellas personas cuya riqueza total exceda el valor de su riqueza obtenida legalmente.

A este respecto, en consonancia con la petición de los sindicatos, el Gobierno ha redactado el Proyecto de Ley de Recuperación de Activos Civiles y Riqueza Inexplicable, y ha entregado el proyecto de ley a los sindicatos y a la comunidad empresarial.

Una vez recibidas las observaciones de los sindicatos que deberán ser a más tardar el 8 de junio de 2021, hará que se presente ante la Cámara de Representantes.

Esperamos que este proyecto de ley se promulgue a finales de julio de este año.

Proyecto de ley de reforma de la financiación de las campañas: El Gobierno apoya la petición de los sindicatos de que se promulgue una ley de financiación de campañas. Esto está en consonancia con el Manifiesto del Plan Belice de esta administración para devolver los principios y la probidad a la vida pública.

El Gobierno ha recibido el proyecto de ley de reforma de la financiación de las campañas de la comunidad empresarial y de los sindicatos y ha encargado al Ministerio de Justicia que revise el proyecto de ley y elabore un proyecto de ley de reforma de la financiación de las campañas para finales de agosto de 2021.

Auditoría de los fondos de Petrocaribe: El Gobierno llevará a cabo una auditoría exhaustiva del uso de los fondos de Petrocaribe por parte de la anterior administración dirigida por el UDP. Racionalización del servicio público: El Gobierno completará de forma acelerada el ejercicio de racionalización de la función pública en curso.

Se propusieron numerosas medidas a los funcionarios y profesores directamente afectados por el ajuste salarial y la congelación de los incrementos.

Algunas de ellas, que no han sido aceptadas por los sindicatos, son las siguientes: a. Reducción de la semana laboral en 5 horas o más del diez por ciento de la semana laboral. b. La emisión de un crédito de tierras a favor de los funcionarios públicos y docentes afectados equivalente al 50 por ciento del ajuste salarial, crédito que podrá ser ejercido en la adquisición de tierras fiscales por parte del titular del crédito de tierras.

En el caso de los funcionarios públicos afectados que ya son propietarios de tierras, el crédito podría utilizarse para liquidar los impuestos sobre la tierra pendientes de pago por parte del funcionario público afectado.

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El crédito de tierras, aunque no es asignable, habría sido aplicable en favor de los miembros de la familia inmediata, es decir, los cónyuges y los hijos del funcionario público afectado.

Permítanme decir de nuevo que el Gobierno sigue comprometido a aliviar los efectos adversos del ajuste salarial y la congelación de los incrementos para los funcionarios públicos y los profesores afectados.

Estamos dispuestos a emprender lo siguiente: a. Opción de bonificación por rendimiento b. Seguro nacional de salud para los funcionarios públicos c. Paquetes de datos con descuento para los profesores d. Alivio de la tesorería en el pago de préstamos e. Exención del derecho de timbre en la cesión de hipotecas residenciales f. Facilidades especiales en el DFC y el Banco Nacional de Belice g. Reducción de los sueldos y asignaciones de los ministros y h. Los incrementos siguen siendo aplicables a los pagos de pensiones Bonificación por desempeño -- El Gobierno pagará en forma de bonificación anual, después del cierre de cada uno de los años fiscales actuales y de los 2 siguientes, cualquier cantidad que supere el correspondiente Objetivo de Saldo Primario anual. Los Objetivos de Saldo Primario establecidos en el Plan de Recuperación son los siguientes: Año 1, ejercicio fiscal 2021/22, el objetivo de saldo primario es un déficit del 2,9% del PIB Año 2, ejercicio fiscal 2022/23, el objetivo de saldo primario es un superávit del 1,99% del PIB Año 3, ejercicio fiscal 2023/24, el objetivo de saldo primario es un superávit del 3,75% del PIB La opción de la prima de rendimiento incentiva a todos los interesados en el presupuesto a centrarse en el objetivo común y beneficioso de alcanzar los objetivos críticos de equilibrio primario del Plan de Recuperación del Gobierno.

Las características de la Opción de la Prima de Rendimiento son las siguientes: 1] La Prima de Rendimiento, que es el equivalente a cualquier exceso de rendimiento en comparación con el Objetivo de Saldo Primario, se pagará de forma prorrateada a todos los profesores y funcionarios públicos afectados como un pago único.

2] El pago máximo acumulativo de la prima de rendimiento será de BZ60 millones de dólares al año, lo que representa el salario y los incrementos no percibidos estimados para un único período presupuestario.

3] Si no se alcanza el objetivo de saldo primario, no se pagará la prima de rendimiento.

Por ejemplo, si en el año 1, la cuenta primario real lleva un déficit del 1,9% del PIB (comparado con el objetivo de un déficit del 2,9% del PIB), por lo tanto, un 1% del PIB por encima del objetivo, y este 1% representa 35 millones de dólares, entonces 35 millones de dólares estarían disponibles para la distribución del pago de la bonificación por rendimiento a todos los profesores y funcionarios públicos afectados.

4] Los pagos de las bonificaciones, en su caso, se efectuarán en los 90 días siguientes al cierre del ejercicio presupuestario.

Seguro de Salud nacional para los funcionarios públicos - A más tardar en el año fiscal 2023/2024, el Gobierno establecerá un plan de seguro de salud contributivo para los funcionarios públicos que cubra la atención médica, dental y de la vista, junto con una prestación accesoria por fallecimiento. El Gobierno contribuirá con el 80% de las primas del seguro, mientras que los funcionarios públicos participantes contribuirán con el 20%.

Paquete de datos con descuento para profesores -- El Gobierno, a través del Ministerio de Educación, ha llegado a un acuerdo con BTL para que ésta ofrezca un paquete de datos de 25 GB con un descuento del 50% a los profesores.

Alivio del flujo de liquidez en los pagos de préstamos -- El Banco Central de Belice ha emitido directrices a los bancos y cooperativas de crédito para ampliar el período de indulgencia en las hipotecas residenciales, incluidas las de los funcionarios públicos y profesores afectados, hasta finales de este año. Se seguirán haciendo esfuerzos para instar a los bancos y cooperativas de crédito a que sean indulgentes con las hipotecas residenciales, incluyendo la exención de las tasas de penalización, ya sea en la refinanciación, la transferencia de préstamos o de otro tipo.

Exención del impuesto de timbre sobre la cesión de hipotecas residenciales: el Gabinete de Ministros ha aprobado y está preparando un proyecto de ley que se presentará a la Asamblea Nacional para la promulgación de la exención del impuesto de timbre sobre la cesión de hipotecas residenciales de funcionarios y profesores.

Facilidades especiales en la DFC y el Banco Nacional de Belice -- El Gobierno se asegurará de que la Corporación Financiera de Desarrollo y el Banco Nacional de Belice pongan a disposición de los funcionarios y profesores públicos facilidades especiales de entre 3 y 5 millones de dólares por institución para la concesión de hipotecas residenciales a tarifas preferentes.

Reducción de los salarios de los ministros -- Los ministros, los ministros de Estado y los representantes de área estarán sujetos a una reducción del salario total del 15%. Los ministros, los ministros de Estado y los directores generales también renunciarán al 50% de las dietas de representación y de teléfono. Se entiende que los jefes de departamento seguirán renunciando a sus dietas como ya se acordó en el ejercicio 2020/2021.

Los incrementos siguen siendo aplicables al pago de las pensiones -- Las prestaciones de las pensiones de los funcionarios públicos y los profesores directamente afectados se calcularán sobre la base de los emolumentos que habrían sido aplicables si no se hubiera aplicado la congelación de los incrementos.

Otras iniciativas del Gobierno son: Recuperación de los atrasos fiscales pendientes Teniendo en cuenta los importantes atrasos en el impuesto sobre actividades económicas, el impuesto general sobre las ventas, el impuesto sobre la renta y el impuesto sobre la propiedad, el Gobierno creará una Unidad de Recuperación de Impuestos integrada en el Departamento de Servicios Tributarios de Belice, que se encargará de la recuperación agresiva de todos los atrasos fiscales legalmente exigibles. Ya se ha creado un comité de dirección del proyecto con representantes del Ministerio de Finanzas, el Departamento de Servicios Fiscales de Belice y el Ministerio de Recursos Naturales, con el fin de realizar las modificaciones necesarias en las leyes aplicables para permitir el establecimiento y el funcionamiento efectivo de dicha unidad.

Además, se está procurando asistencia técnica para ello y para el establecimiento de un Tribunal de Ingresos que apoye la recaudación de ingresos/impuestos y la aplicación de las leyes fiscales aplicables.

Comité de Asociación Social El Gobierno establecerá un comité consultivo de asociaciones sociales integrado por representantes del Gobierno, el NTUCB, las Iglesias, la comunidad empresarial y las organizaciones no gubernamentales, y su primera reunión se celebrará en octubre de 2021. El propósito del Comité será proporcionar recomendaciones sobre el aumento de los ingresos, el ahorro de costes, la reforma fiscal y la protección del consumidor. Podrán crearse subcomités para cada uno de estos ámbitos concretos.

El Gobierno proporcionará a este Comité información actualizada sobre el estado de las finanzas públicas cada seis meses, empezando por la primera actualización en la primera reunión del Comité en octubre de este año.

Mañana(13 de mayo) nuestro equipo ministerial se reunirá con los sindicatos paritarios para obtener su respuesta a estos compromisos. Espero sinceramente que nuestros líderes sindicales y sus miembros aprecien y comprendan que nuestro Gobierno ha agotado todas las opciones en un esfuerzo por abordar de forma responsable las graves e importantes cuestiones y preocupaciones que han planteado en los últimos meses.

Este es nuestro último y mejor esfuerzo.

Mi Gobierno respeta a nuestros funcionarios públicos y profesores y desea realmente una asociación de trabajo sólida y productiva con ellos. Llevamos 6 meses de un mandato de 5 años. Hay mucho trabajo por hacer en beneficio del pueblo beliceño. Trabajando juntos, tenemos la oportunidad de lograr un cambio y reformas significativas.

Aprovechemos esa oportunidad a partir de mañana. Volvamos todos a la importante labor de construir nuestro querido Belice.

Les doy las gracias.

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ON THE MOVE PM John Briceño, Orange Walk Central

Min. Oscar Requeña, Toledo West and RT-CD-L-LG

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Min. Jose Mai, MAFSE

Min. Julius Espat, MIDH all over

Receiving Taiwanese donation to ongoing sheep project Partners w/ The Silver Creek Water Board to Complete Water Expansion

Hands on w/ BWSL to bring water to the Petville area

In Patchakan, starting from scratch

Meeting the beneficiaries of a fabric donation

PM w/ Hon. Michel Chebat, Cayo South and MHW

Min. Dolores Balderamos Garcia, and MoS Gilroy Usher, HD, F&IPA,

Helping persons w/ special needs, with ROCT and MHW help Opening the Luisa Manzanero Clinic in Bullet Tree Village

Hon. Jorge Espat, Cayo West

Clearing lots in Ranchito for a Cemetery and Park

Kichpan Kananten Succotz Women’s Group

Min. Dolores Garcia and Ambassador admiring the work

Prime Minister Briceño inside the new Clinic

1st Vaccination dose, 6mths after being Covid positive

Reviving Water System in Calla Creek

As Promised Machakil Ha road will be improved

“Reimagining the Future: Education, Community & Wellness.”

Other Reps #getvaccinatedBelize

Min. of State Louis Zabaneh, MoECST

Hon. Jorge Espat, Cayo West

Hon. Oscar Mira, Belmopan

At church service, marking the beginning of Education Week

Hon. Dolores Balderamos Garcia, Belize Rural Central

w/ Gracie Rock chairman, Sibun River clean-up

Headtable w/ H.E. Chien, Ambassador ROCT(donor), Hon. Alex, Balona, Hon. Jorge Espat, Hon. Michel Chebat and other officials

Min. Kareem Musa, Home Affairs and New Growth Industries

w/ Commissioner at a National Quarterly COMPSTAT session

Min. Anthony Mahler, TDR w/ His Worship Rigo Vellos

Candid discussion on Tourism in the Corozal District

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STAFF SICKOUT “Total Loss of Confidence” in Ms. Sharon Fraser

Ten magistrate court staff members protested Sharon Fraser’s management practices at the Belize City magistrate’s court. The sole APSSM member might have been too busy to properly dispense her duties since she is busy defending the corrupt past UDP administration—the same one that was soundly lashed out of office after three consecutive elections. Too bad, elections do not speak to getting rid of crony public officers hell-bent on defending UDP’s guilt of running our finances into a rut of ruts.

As PSU President Gerald Henry, in essence, said, ‘Everything that happens in government, happen because of the public officers’. Corrupt acts by the UDP were facilitated by some public officers. During UDP’s 12 years plus in office, ONLY UDP cronies were hired into the Public Service. Now, these cronies are a lin-

LIQUOR LICENSE NOTICE: Notice is hereby given that Mohammed Ahmed is applying for a shop Liquor License to be operated at “Father Supermarket” located at Market Square, Belmopan City, Cayo under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Haimwantie Zelaya is applying for a Shop Liquor License to be operated at “Mahogany Heights Supermarket” located in Mahogany Heights, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Calvin Reimer is applying for a Restaurant Liquor License to be operated at “Mountain View Bar” located in Armenia Village, Cayo District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Rong Yao Lu is applying for a Restaurant Liquor License to be operated at “New Sunday Restaurant” located at # 27 Belize/Corozal Road, Orange Walk Town, Orange Walk District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Iris Mairena is applying for a Restaurant Liquor License to be operated at “La Jungla” located on Benque Viejo Street, Orange Walk Town, Orange Walk District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Allen Yu is applying for a Beer Liquor License to be operated at “Kai & A Net Cafe” located at # 28 Belize/Corozal Road, Orange Walk Town, Orange Walk District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

gering cancer dedicated to sabotaging the new planBelize government.

Let’s not call them whistle-blowers.

The Briceño government has and will be a transparent government.

There is nothing to blow out except the horrific result of UDP plunder and the measures the Briceño administration needs to take to fix it… with everyone’s help. PSU refuse to snitch on their former bosses instead they defend them.

But I digress, so a little look back at the beginning of the pandemic. APSSM was in cahoots with the worse administrator of Belize, Dean Barrow. Last year 2020, when Barrow was threatening the PSU and teachers to unilaterally freeze their increments, Barrow voiced to the nation that the APSSM agreed with the freeze. So it must have been a good thing. That was then.

But now, we know that it was a unilateral action of the one-person association called Sharon Fraser.

She now pens letters for this association threatening the government that she will walk out with other ghost members.

No one knows who the paying members to the APSSM are. At least, the teachers and the public servants have a number albeit only some are paying members. It is long known that with the teachers union any teacher that does not pay fees is not of their concern. Pay or be ignored. Both PSU and BNTU unions nevertheless make thousands of dollars from membership fees. The ordinary member has no idea on the accountability of these funds. Go to their AGM’s and you will get the sense.

The PSU, they lost their Hilltop to Khalid. What was the deal there is still unclear...for the UDP it was just another 400k deal similar to Andre’s and Sharon’s.

Back to Sharon... Fraser this time. Who do you represent? Why were/are you so obsequious to Barrow? Was it the 40K for the Italy scholarship? Who knows?

The members of the Magistracy department walked out due to “displeasure and total loss of confidence in the management of our Chief Magistrate”… “We do not feel she is capable of taking this department where it needs to go.

We deserve better” They want the government to come in and “review and remedy the situation.”

Sharon penned her own letter saying that all this is imaginary.

She ignored the allegation and explained that the court was opened for business.

The people of Belize are waiting for Sharon to strike as she threatened. It is her right to be wrong and she is very, very wrong. Siding with the UDP is being on the side of infamy.

Strike Sharon!!

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 highly motivated, goal-oriented, responsible and committed persons to join our Company in the role of Apprentice Lineman I in the Distribution Operations Department at the following locations: Ladyville

Belize City

Belmopan

San Ignacio

Dangriga

Independence

Applicants will undergo company-based training aimed at progression to qualified Lineman. This post offers the opportunity for progressive career advancement to supervisory/management levels.

Education and Experience: • Associate Degree in Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry and/or Engineering Technology Required Skills and Abilities: • Good written and oral communication skills • Leadership ability • Initiative and the ability to work in a team • Reliable • Self-confident • Goal oriented • Valid Driver’s Licence would be an asset (Manual Transmission) Salary: $18,400.00 per annum with annual increase applied based on training progression.

Kindly submit application letter along with resume, copy of degrees and certificates and two (2) recent professional letters of recommendation to: Manager, Talent Acquisition and Development Email: career.opportunity@bel.com.bz In the email subject, please indicate the position: Apprentice Lineman I - (V a ca n cy l o ca t i o n o f y o u r ch o i ce ) Only electronic applications are being accepted at this time.

For more information or queries, call: 227-0954 Ext. 1415 or 1416 Deadline: Friday, May 21, 2021

16

16 MAY

THE BELIZE TIMES

PUBLIC AUCTION SALE PROPERTY

2021

PUBLIC AUCTION SALE: PROPERTIES

San Pedro, Ambergris Caye; Belize District

Placencia Pensinsula, Stann Creek District

BY ORDER of the Mortgagees Messrs. The Belize Bank Limited,

BY ORDER of the Mortgagees Messrs. The Belize Bank International Licensed Auctioneers Kevin A. Castillo and Christiana R. Castillo Limited, Licensed Kevin A.Castillo and Christiana R. PUBLICAuctioneers AUCTION SALE: PROPERTIES are selling ONLINE via belizepropertyauctions.com the following Castillo are selling ONLINE via Stann belizepropertyauctions.com those Placencia Pensinsula, Creek District PUBLIC AUCTION SALE: PROPERTIES PUBLIC SALE: PROPERTIES property. Sale currently running and will expire Tuesday 25th May BY ORDERproperties appearingbelow.

Sales currently running and will expire of the Mortgagees Messrs.

TheAUCTION Belize Bank International Limited, Licensed Auctioneers Kevin A. Placencia Pensinsula, Stann Creek Placencia Pensinsula, Stann CreekDistrict District on the Castillo and Christiana R. Castillo25th are selling via the belizepropertyauctions.com thosewebsite. properties appearing 2021 at the time shown on the website. on Tuesday MayONLINE 2021 at times shown

BY ORDER of the Mortgagees Messrs. The Belize Bank International Limited, Licensed Auctioneers Kevin A.

BY ORDER of the Mortgagees Messrs.

The Belize Bank International Limited, Auctioneers Kevin A below.

Sales currently running and will expire on Tuesday 25th May 2021 at the Licensed times shown on the website.

Castillo and Christiana R. Castillo are selling ONLINE via belizepropertyauctions.com those properties appearing 1.

No. 2123 West Wind Drive, The Placencia Residences, Placencia PeninsuCastillo and Christiana R. Castillo are selling ONLINE via belizepropertyauctions.com thoseCreek properties appearin 1. No. 2123 West Wind Drive, The Placencia Residences, Placencia Peninsula, Stann District: th below. Sales runningDistrict: and will expire on Tuesday 25 May 2021 at the times shown on the website. la, currently Stann Creek below. Sales currently running and will expire on Tuesday 25th May 2021 at the times shown on the website.

1.1.No. No.2123 2123West WestWind WindDrive, Drive,The ThePlacencia PlacenciaResidences, Residences,Placencia PlacenciaPeninsula, Peninsula,Stann StannCreek CreekDistrict: District:

REGISTRATION SECTION BLOCK REGISTRATION SECTION BLOCK PARCEL PARCEL Placencia North 36 2123 REGISTRATION SECTION PARCEL Placencia North 36 BLOCK 2123 REGISTRATION SECTION BLOCK PARCEL (Being a reinforced masonry block building frame [60 ft.

X 60 ft. + carport 20 ft.

X 20 ft.] and lot [768.69 San Pedro 7 12333 Placencia North 3636 2123 Placencia North 2123 S.M.] situate on West Wind Drive, The Placencia Residences, Placencia Peninsula, Stann District, (Being amasonry reinforced masonry block building frame [60 ft.+Xcarport 60 ft. +20carport 20ft.] ft. Creek X 20 ft.] and (Being a reinforced block building frame [60 ft.

X 60 ft. ft.

X 20 lot (Being a vacant lot [696.678 S. M.] situate approximately 13 kilometres north of the San freehold (Being property a reinforced masonry blockLagoon building frameDrive, [60 ft.The X 60 ft. + carport 20 ft. XPlacencia 20 ft.]and and lot[768.69 [768. lot [768.690 S.M.] situate on West Wind Placencia Residences, Peninsuof Messrs.

Mayan Estates Limited.)

S.M.] situate on West Wind Drive, The Placencia Residences, Placencia Peninsula, Stann Creek District, Pedro Town Bridge, San Pedro Town, Belize District, the freehold property of Mr. Nestor S.M.] situate on West Wind Drive, The Placencia Residences, Placencia Peninsula, Stann Creek District la, Stann Creek District, the freehold property ofPlacencia Messrs.

Mayan Lagoon Estates Limited.)

2. No. 1486 West Wind Drive, The Placencia Residences, Peninsula, Stann Creek District: freehold ofofMessrs.

Adriano Vasquez) freeholdproperty property Messrs.Mayan MayanLagoon LagoonEstates EstatesLimited.)

Limited.)

2. No. 1486 West Wind Drive, The Placencia Residences, Placencia Peninsu2.2.No. 1486 West Wind Drive, The Placencia Residences, No. 1486 West Wind Drive, The Placencia Residences,Placencia PlacenciaPeninsula, Peninsula,Stann StannCreek CreekDistrict: District: ADDITIONAL INFORMATION la, Stann Creek District: REGISTRATION SECTION

BLOCK

PARCEL

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

PUBLIC AUCTION SALE - PROPERTY PUBLIC AUCTION SALE - PROPERTY Hattieville, Belize District Hattieville, Belize District

BY ORDER of the Mortgagees Messrs. Heritage Bank Limited, Licensed REGISTRATION SECTION BLOCK REGISTRATION SECTION BLOCK PARCEL PARCEL ER ofAuctioneers the Mortgagees Messrs.

Heritage Bank Limited, R. Licensed Auctioneers A. Castillo and Kevin A. Castillo and Christiana Castillo are sellingKevin ONLINE via Placencia North 36 1486 REGISTRATION SECTION BLOCK PARCEL a R. belizepropertyauctions.com Castillo are selling ONLINE viathe belizepropertyauctions.com thecurrently followingrunning property.and Sale currently following property. Sale Placencia North 36 1486 REGISTRATION SECTION BLOCK PARCEL (Being a three storey timber/vinyl dwelling house: Ground Floor 28 ft.

X 59 ft. + porch 8 ft. X 28 ft.

Placencia 3636 1486 will on expire on Monday 2021 at time listed on the website. nd will expire Monday 17th May17th 2021May at time listed on the website.

PlacenciaNorth North 1486

containing 2(Being bedrooms + 1storey bathroom + living/dining/kitchen +Ground laundry + utility room under a three timber/vinyl dwelling house: Floor 28 X 59+ ft. + porch (Being storey timber/vinyl dwelling house: Ground Floor 2828ft.ft.

X ft.ft.+ft.

8storage ft.

(Beinga three aFirst three storey timber/vinyl Ground Floor X5959 +porch porch 8ft.ft.XX28 8 ft.Floor: X 28 ft. containing 1 bathroom + living/dining/kitchen + laundry +28+ ft. staircase; 22 ft.bathroom X 43 ft.2dwelling +bedrooms porch 5house: ft.+ X 22 ft. containing master bedroom bathroom walkcontaining 2 bedrooms + 1 + living/dining/kitchen + laundry + utility room + storage under utility room +ft. under First Floor: 22 ft. Xfloors 43 ft. + porch 5 ft.concrete 22 ft. concontaining 2 bedrooms +storage 1Xbathroom +staircase; living/dining/kitchen +three laundry + via utility room +Xstorage under closet; Second Floor: 10 10 ft. viewing attic (access to all internal staircase staircase; First Floor: 2222ft.bedroom porch 5 5ft.ft. master bedroom + +10 bathroom + +walktaining master ++ bathroom +X walk-in closet; Second Floor: 10onft.West X ft. viewing staircase; First Floor: ft.XX4343ft.square ft.+ porch X2222ft.ft.containing containing master bedroom bathroom wal with timber steps) and lotft.[919.702 meters (1099.95 square yards)] situate Wind Drive, Th closet; Second Floor: 10 X 10 ft. viewing attic (access to all three floors via internal concrete staircase attic (access to all three floors via internal concrete staircase with timber steps) and lot closet; Second Floor: 10 ft.

X 10 ft. viewing attic (access to all three floors via internal concrete staircas Placencia Residences, Placencia Peninsula, Stann Creek District, the freehold property of Mr. Ron [919.702 square meters (1099.95 square yards)] situate on West Wind Drive, The Placencia with steps) and lotlot[919.702 square (1099.95 square yards)] situate ononWest Wind Drive, Th withtimber timber steps) [919.702 squaremeters meters (1099.95 square situate West Wind Oczkowski and Ms. and Barbara Bell.)

Residences, Placencia Peninsula, StannCreek Creek District, theyards)] freehold property Mr. RonDrive, Placencia Residences, Placencia Peninsula, Stann District, the freehold property ofofofMr. Ron Placencia Residences, Placencia Peninsula, Stann Creek District, the freehold property Mr. Ron Oczkowski and Ms. Barbara Bell.)Residences, Placencia Peninsula, Stann Creek District: 3. No. 2108 West Wind Drive, The Placencia Oczkowski and Ms. Barbara Bell.)

Oczkowski and Ms. Barbara Bell.)

AT piece or parcel consisting of 1.002ofacres SquareSquare Yards)Yards) situate between Mile 17 and 3.

No. 2108 West Wind Drive, The Placencia Residences, Placencia PeninsuALL THAT pieceoforland parcel of land consisting 1.002(4849.68 acres (4849.68 situate 3.3.No. 2108 Wind 2108West West WindDrive, Drive,The ThePlacencia PlacenciaResidences, Residences,Placencia PlacenciaPeninsula, Peninsula,Stann StannCreek CreekDistrict: District: George Price (Western) Hattieville, Belize District andBelize described asNo. follows: OnStann the between Mile 17 and 18Highway, on the George Price (Western) Highway,bounded Hattieville, District la, Creek District: boundedofand described follows: for a of distance of 46.32 by land a distance 46.32 metresasby land On nowthe orNorth formerly R. Murillo, onmetres the South fornow a distance of 48.10 formerly of R.(Western) Murillo, onHighway; the SouthOn for athe distance of 48.10 metresofby85.20 the George Price theorGeorge Price East for a distance metres by other lands and on (Western) Highway; On the East for a distance of 85.20 metres by other lands and on the for aWest distance of 98.31ofmetres by a parcel of land containing 0.801 acres for a distance 98.31 metres by a parcel of land containing 0.801 acresTOGETHER TOGETHER with all buildings ionswith standing and being thereon.standing (Beingand a being concrete/timber building situate beside the George Price all buildings and erections thereon. (Being a concrete/timber building Hattieville, situate besideBelize the George Price and (Western Highway) Hattieville, Belize(4849.68 District and Highway) District lot containing 1.002 acres S.Y.), the freehold lotHelen containing 1.002 acres (4849.68 S.Y.), the freehold property of Ms. Helen Robinson) of Ms. Robinson) REGISTRATION SECTION BLOCK PARCEL TERMS:STRICTLY STRICTLYCASH CASH TERMS: REGISTRATION SECTION BLOCK REGISTRATION SECTION BLOCK REGISTRATION SECTION BLOCK PARCEL PARCEL PARCEL KEVIN A. CASTILLO KEVIN A. CASTILLO TELEPHONE: 223-4488 TELEPHONE: 223-4488 Placencia North 36 2108 Website: belizepropertyauctions.com Website: belizepropertyauctions.com Placencia North 36 of a porch 5 ft. X 2108 (Being a two-storey concrete building [32 ft. X 32 inclusive 16 ft. + back Email: belizeauctionsales@gmail.co (Being a two-storey concrete building [32 ft.

X 32 inclusive of a porch 5 ft.

X 16 ft. + back 5 ft. wide Email: belizeauctionsales@gmail.co porch 5 ft. wide containing Ground Floor: master bedroom + walk-in closet +porch bathroom + containing Ground Floor: master bedroom + walk-in closet +room; bathroom + living/dining/kitchen half Facebook: Belize Auctions Facebook: Belize Auctions living/dining/kitchen + half bathroom + laundry Second Floor: 1 bedroom+ + closet + bathroom + laundry room; Second Floor: 1 bedroom + closet + bathroom (access via internal concrete & bathroom (access via internal concrete & tiled staircase)] and lot [937.060 S.M.] situate on tiled West staircase)] and lot [937.060 S.M.] situate on West Wind Drive,Peninsula, The Placencia Residences, Placencia Wind Drive, The Placencia Residences, Placencia Stann Creek District.)

PUBLIC AUCTION SALE - PROPERTY PUBLIC AUCTION SALE - PROPERTY

Peninsula, Stann Creek District.)

4. Parcel No. 2159 Placencia Placencia Stann Creek: 4. Parcel No. 2159 Placencia Residences,Residences, Placencia Peninsula, Stann Peninsula, Creek:

Pasture Street, Orange Town, Pasture Street, Orange Walk Town, Orange Walk Walk District Orange Walk District DER of the Mortgagees Messrs. The Belize Bank Limited, Licensed Auctioneers Kevin A. Castillo

BY ORDER of the Mortgagees Messrs. The Belize Bank Limited, Licensed

hristiana R. Castillo are selling ONLINE via belizepropertyauctions.com theONLINE following property.

Auctioneers Kevin A. Castillo and Christiana R. Castillo are selling via e currently running and will expirethe Monday 17th May 2021at the currently time shown on the website. belizepropertyauctions.com following property.

Sale running and will expire Monday 17th May 2021at the time shown on the website.

REGISTRATION SECTION REGISTRATION SECTION

Placencia North North Placencia REGISTRATION SECTION

BLOCK

PARCEL

BLOCK

BLOCK 3636

PARCEL

PARCEL 2159 2159

(Beinga canal a canal side vacant lot situate the sub-division known as The Placencia (Being side vacant lot situate in thein sub-division known as The Placencia ResidencesResidences near Mile near Mile 13 Placencia Road, Placencia Stann District, the 13 Placencia Road, Placencia Peninsula, StannPeninsula, Creek District, theCreek freehold property offreehold Mr. RyanpropPott). erty of Mr. Restrictions Ryan Pott).on use of Property is available upon request******* *******NB.

REGISTRATION SECTION BLOCK PARCEL Orange Walk Town 3414 Ann Gabourel 4 4 1391 *******NB. Restrictions on use of Property is available upon request******* ADDITIONAL INFORMATION - www.belizebank.com (foreclosure listing) a vacant lotS.M.] [522.500 S.M.] on situate on Pasture Street, Orange Walk Town,Orange OrangeWalk District, cant(Being lot [522.500 situate Pasture Street, Orange Walk Town, TERMS: STRICTLY CASH Walk District, the freehold property of Ms. Christine Hawkins) ADDITIONAL INFORMATION property of Ms. Christine Hawkins) KEVIN A. CASTILLO ADDITIONAL INFORMATION -

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

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

16 MAY

2021

17

THE BELIZE TIMES

Belize Chairs Twenty-Fourth Meeting of CARICOM Foreign Ministers Belmopan. May 7, 2021. 5:00 p.m.

The Twenty-Fourth Meeting of the Council for Foreign and Community Relations (COFCOR) of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) was held virtually on May 6-7, 2021 under the chairmanship of Hon. Eamon Courtenay, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Trade and Immigration.

CARICOM foreign ministers agreed to intensify the frequency of their interaction as they reemphasized the importance of the Community’s coordinated foreign policy response. The ministers also discussed ways of strengthening

the region’s bilateral relations with traditional and new partners, as well as with hemispheric and multilateral actors.

Additionally, foreign ministers considered several issues of paramount importance for the region inclusive of the challenges to public health and food systems, and the economic and social disruption of the COVID-19 pandemic. The existential threat of climate change, the highly anticipated COP26, and the important issue of migration also formed part of the agenda.

During his intervention, Foreign Minister Courtenay called for the Community’s continued resonance of unity in advo-

cating for the fair, equitable and timely access to COVID-19 vaccines as the coronavirus pandemic continues globally. Minister Courtenay reaffirmed the importance of impressing upon development partners and international financial institutions for a more tailored approach to the needs of small and vulnerable economies for access to concessional financing and debt relief. Minister Courtenay also briefed his colleagues on the recent development in the Belize Guatemala process.

On the margins of the 24th COFCOR, Minister Courtenay moderated a

call between CARICOM Foreign Ministers and Mr. Jake Sullivan, National Security Advisor to the President of the United States of America. CARICOM Foreign Ministers and Mr. Sullivan discussed COVID-19 vaccines, economic recovery, climate change and regional security.

Ambassador Amalia Mai, CEO in the Ministry; H.E. Lawrence Sylvester, Ambassador of Belize to CARICOM; Ms. Ayesha Borland, director of international affairs; and Mrs. Amaris Leal, foreign service officer, also formed part of the Belize delegation.

STRENGTHENING OF TAX ADMINISTRATION PROJECT REQUEST FOR EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST Consulting Firm to Prepare and Implement a New Audit Model, making use of the wider range examination and risk-based techniques (to include analytic tools for audit) Institution: The Ministry of Finance (MOF) Country: Belize Project: Strengthening of Tax Administration (STA) Abstract: Consulting Services – Consulting Firm to Prepare and Implement a New Audit Model, making use of the wider range examination and risk-based techniques (to include analytic tools for audit).

Loan No.: 4839/OC-BL Deadline: May 28, 2021, Belize Local Time The Government of Belize (GOB) has received financing from the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) for the execution of a five-year tax modernization project entitled “Strengthening of Tax Administration” (BL-L1031). The main beneficiaries of the Project are: (a) the Government, which will have more revenues to implement its public policies; (b) taxpayers, who will have more support and a digital environment to fulfil their tax obligations; and (c) the population, from the government policies implemented. Through this project, the Belize Tax Service Department (BTSD) has procured a Modern Integrated Tax Administration System (the Revenue Management System (RMS)) and is presently in the implementation process. This new system will be used in the management of the Belize Tax Administration.

The BTSD management has identified the need for a modern audit approach based on risk analysis.

The BTSD Strategic Plan states that: “BTSD will explore the introduction of a Risk Management Plan (RMP) to properly respond to the risks identified on a timely basis, to minimize overall compliance burden for both the taxpayers and the tax administration. As an important aspect of the RMP, risk mitigating strategies will be proposed for application against potential and existing risks. The plan will highlight all areas of risks including risk-based assessments, risk-based audits, risk-based sector and taxpayer segmentation, compliance risks (registration, filing, reporting and payments) and international risks. Risk mitigation reduces the extent of exposure and ensures that the strategic objectives are achieved.”

The consulting services (“the services”) includes the contracting of a consulting firm for a period of ten (10) months to Prepare and Implement a New Audit Model, making use of the range examination and risk-based techniques (to include analytic tools for audit). The main activities of the consultancy includes: 1. To assess the status of BTSD taxpayer audit strategies and operations for all tax type.

2. To review the Audit Division organization and resources, as well as the staff skills 3. To suggest the strategy for centralization/decentralization of the audit 4. To propose a new organization area (if required) 5. To propose the staff composition by area and by location 6. To propose the different audit programs taking into consideration taxpayer segments and different audit locations (central, districts).

7. To propose a system of massive audit based on IT verification of returns against risk factors and third-party information. The selected cases should be resolved very quickly (4 cases a day) as they are based on firm verification.

8. To propose modern analytic tools suitable for Belize’s environment by conducting a SWOT analysis to support the audit work.

9. Once the proposal on the modern analytic tool is approved, the consulting firm will procure, implement, and train auditors in its utilization.

10. To conduct Pilot audit with the audit team to plan, execute and report on randomly selected taxpayers.

The Consulting firm should have a minimum of five (5) years’ experience in Tax Administration Taxpayer Audit and Risk Analysis. As well as a strong expertise in the use of modern analytic tools.

The Consulting firm should prove its expertise in Tax Administration audit, risk analysis and Business Strategy (supporting business and organization goals).

The Ministry of Finance now invites eligible consulting firms (“Consultants”) to indicate their interest in providing the services. Interested eligible Consultants must submit an Expression of Interest providing information demonstrating that they have the required qualifications and relevant experience to perform the services (brochures, description of similar assignments specifying start and end dates of assignments,

experience in similar conditions, availability of appropriate skills, etc.). The term “consultant” means a legally-established professional consulting firm or an entity that may provide the services.

Expression of Interest package should contain: (i) Document explaining interest, experience, and competence of the consulting firm. (ii) Firms experience in the assignment of similar consultancy services during the past five years. Description of similar assignments specifying start and end dates of assignments. (iii) Firms evidence of past jobs. (iv) Two references (v) Proof of nationality: Copy of certificate of incorporation and information of shareholders of company specifying the shares owned by each respective shareholder of the company.

Additional documentation required for National Consultants: (vi) Copy of Certificate of Good Standing from Belize Company Registry (vii) Copy of Certificate of Good Standing from the Social Security Board (viii) Copy of Certificate of Good Standing from the Belize Tax Service Department (ix) Current Trade License Consultants will be selected in accordance with the procedures set out in the Inter-American Development Bank: Policies for the Selection and Contracting of Consultants financed by the Inter-American Development Bank (GN-2350-15, May 2019 edition) and is open to all eligible consultants as defined in the IDB policies.

Consultants may associate with other firms in the form of a joint venture or a sub-consultancy to enhance their qualifications. For the purpose of establishing the short list, the nationality of a firm is that of the country in which it is legally incorporated or constituted and in the case of Joint Venture, the nationality of the firm appointed to represent it.

A Consultant will be selected in accordance with the Selection based on the Consultants’ Qualification method set out in the IDB Consultant Policies. The selected consulting firm will be selected based on its experience and competence relevant to the assignment and most appropriate qualifications and references. Only the highest ranked consulting firm from the short-listed firms will be notified and will be asked to submit a technical and price proposal.

Further information can be obtained at the address below during office hours Monday to Friday 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Expressions of interest must be delivered via direct mail or e-mail at the address indicated below by 4:00 p.m. on Friday May 28, 2021.

Interested consulting firms are asked to submit their expression of interest via e-mail to Michelle.Longsworth@bts.gov.bz marked STAP- Consulting Firm to Prepare and Implement a New Audit Model in the subject header, or submit on or before Friday May 28, 2021 to the following address: Director General Belize Tax Service Department Strengthening of Tax Administration Project Charles Bartlett Hyde Building Mahogany Street, Belize City Tel: 501-222-5114 For clarifications kindly contact: Project Coordinator Project Executing Unit Strengthening of Tax Administration Project Charles Bartlett Hyde Building Mahogany Street, Belize City Tel: 501-222-5114/E-mail: gisel.correa@mof.gov.bz

18

THE BELIZE TIMES

GOVERNMENT OF BELIZE MEETING WITH THE BENEFICIARIES OF A FABRIC DONATION

Hon. Dolores Balderamos Garcia, Minister of Human Development, Families and Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs, led a delegation including H.E. David Kuan-Chou Chien, Ambassador of the Republic of China (Taiwan) to Belize, and members of the Cabinet and House of Representatives and other government officials, visited Succotz Village, Cayo District today.

The purpose of the visit was to meet the beneficiaries of a fabric donation from the Embassy of Taiwan. This is the second stop on this tour, as the delegation visited women’s groups in the Corozal District in April.

Hon. Jorge Espat posted on the same event: Today, as we honor our mothers and their unconditional love, support and dedication to their families, we also honor all those women who also give of

16 MAY

2021

themselves to make their communities better ones. It was a pleasure then, to showcase the products and services offered by the Kichpan Kananten Succotz Women’s Group, the YWCA of Belmopan, Mahogany Heights Women’s Group to His Excellency, David Kuan-Chou Chien, Ambassador of the Republic of China (Taiwan), and Minister of Human Development, Families and Indigenous People’s Affairs, Honorable Dolores Balderamos – Garcia.

I is very thankful for the continued relationship between two countries which will bring added progress to our Cayo West Constituency. Working along with the women of this constituency to create programs for their professional growth remains a steadfast goal for myself and the PUP government.

To all those of you who made this day quite memorable, thank you!

STRENGTHENING OF TAX ADMINISTRATION PROJECT REQUEST FOR EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST National Individual Consultant to review and update the current Taxpayer Segmentation Model and develop a Risk-based Compliance Management Model, including customization in the ITAS Institution: The Ministry of Finance (MOF) Country: Belize Project: Strengthening of Tax Administration (STA) Abstract: Consulting Services – National Individual Consultant to review and update the current Taxpayer Segmentation and develop a Risk-based Compliance Management Model, including customization in the ITAS Loan No.: 4839/OC-BL Deadline: May 28, 2021, Belize Local Time The Government of Belize (GOB) has received financing from the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) for the execution of a five-year tax modernization project entitled “Strengthening of Tax Administration” (BL-L1031). Through this project, the Belize Tax Service Department (BTSD) has procured a Modern Integrated Tax Administration System (the Revenue Management System (RMS)) and is presently in the implementation process. This new system will be used in the management of the Belize Tax Administration.

The BTSD Strategic Plan clearly addresses the relevance of taxpayer segmentation and the risk management approach. It indicates that: “It has become good practice for Tax Administrators across the world to implement Taxpayer Segmentation in revenue management to effectively analyze taxpayer data and to efficaciously implement different and specific surveillance and control mechanisms,” and that; “The deployment of a ‘Risk management approach’ is a modern and pertinent tactic that would aid in compliance. This approach gives a structured basis for strategic planning; focuses on the underlying drivers (not symptoms) of non-compliance; promotes diversity in the way major tax compliance risks are treated, rather than a ‘one size fits all’ approach; realizes better outcomes as it refers to efficiency and effectiveness of programs; coincides with international standards and is a strong basis for evidence-based evaluation.

Consequently, the BTSD will explore the introduction of a Risk Management Plan (RMP) to properly respond to the risks identified on a timely basis, to minimize overall compliance burden for both the taxpayers and the tax administration. As an important aspect of the RMP, risk mitigating strategies will be proposed for application against potential and existing risks. The plan will highlight all areas of risks including risk-based assessments, risk-based audits, risk-based sector and taxpayer segmentation, compliance risks (registration, filing, reporting and payments) and international risks. Risk mitigation reduces the extent of exposure and ensures that the strategic objectives are achieved.”

The consulting services (“the services”) includes the contracting of a National Individual Consultant for a period of five (5) months to review and update the current Taxpayer Segmentation and develop a Risk-based compliance management model, including customization in the ITAS. The main activities of the consultancy includes: 1. To prepare an Action plan for the review and updating of the Taxpayer Segmentation Model and Risk Analysis Strategy 2. To Assess the status of BTSD taxpayer segmentation and the use of risk-based techniques in the BTSD and to analyze the BTSD taxpayer information to identify ways to segment the taxpayer population following different criteria (income, assets, number of employees, economic activities etc.), and other relevant indicators.

3. To review and update the current model for segmentation of BTSD taxpayers (companies and individuals) and to define a strategy for updating taxpayers’ segments and profiles in the ITAS periodically.

4. Profile all BTSD taxpayers following the model once the model is approved by BTSD management.

5. To propose a model for the risk-based compliance model, defining the risk-based indicators, the rules, the risk factors to be utilized, their relative relevance (high, medium, low), the sources of information to utilized, the mitigation measures, and the required operations to use them.

6. To include the information on taxpayer segmentation in the ITAS database 7. To prepare a report on the risks identified as well as the relevant mitigation measures to be introduced.

8.

To suggest additional information (internal and external) to improve its risk-based control system.

9. To deliver workshops to BTSD staff on the Taxpayer Segmentation Model and risk analysis strategy to be implemented.

The National Individual Consultant should have a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Accounting, and/ or equivalent standard of education. As well as a minimum of five (5) years relevant working experience in tax administration compliance control and risk analysis. The Consultant should prove its expertise in tax administration controls and taxpayer segmentation, and Business Strategy (supporting business and organization goals). In addition, the Consultant should be fluent in written and spoken English and possess communication and interpersonal skills, presentation and facilitation skills, flexibility and adaptability skills, and Time management skills.

The Ministry of Finance now invites eligible National Individual Consultants (“Consultants”) to indicate their interest in providing the services. Interested eligible Consultants must submit an Expression of Interest providing information demonstrating that they have the required qualifications and relevant experience to perform the services (description of similar assignments specifying start and end dates of assignments, experience in similar conditions, availability of appropriate skills, etc.).

Expression of Interest package should contain: (i) Document explaining interest, experience, and competence of the Individual Consultant. (ii) The Individual Consultant’s experience in the assignment of similar consultancy services during the past five years. Description of similar assignments specifying start and end dates of assignments. (iii) A least Two references (iv) Proof of nationality: Copy of documentation of nationality. (v) Copy of Certificate of Good Standing from the Belize Tax Service Department The Consultants will be selected in accordance with the procedures set out in the Inter-American Development Bank: Policies for the Selection and Contracting of Consultants financed by the InterAmerican Development Bank (GN-2350-15, May 2019 edition) and is open to all eligible consultants as defined in the IDB policies.

A Consultant will be selected in accordance with the Selection based on Comparison of Consultants’ Qualifications of National Individual Consultants (QCNI) procurement method set out in the IDB Consultant Policies. The selected Consultant will be selected based on its qualifications, experience, and competence relevant to the assignment. Only the highest ranked Consultant from the shortlisted Consultants will be notified.

Further information can be obtained at the address below during office hours Monday to Friday 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Expressions of interest must be delivered via direct mail or e-mail at the address indicated below by 4:00 p.m. on Friday May 28, 2021.

Interested eligible Consultants are asked to submit their expression of interest via e-mail to Michelle.

Longsworth@bts.gov.bz marked STAP- National Individual Consultant to review and update the current Taxpayer Segmentation and develop a Risk-based Compliance Management Model in the subject header, or submit on or before Friday May 28, 2021 to the following address: Director General Belize Tax Service Strengthening of Tax Administration Project Charles Bartlett Hyde Building Mahogany Street, Belize City Tel: 501-222-5114 For clarifications kindly contact: Project Coordinator Project Executing Unit Strengthening of Tax Administration Project Charles Bartlett Hyde Building Mahogany Street, Belize City Tel: 501-222-5114/E-mail: gisel.correa@mof.gov.bz

16 MAY

2021

THE BELIZE TIMES

THINK ABOUT IT THIS CHANGES EVERYTHING The cold-bloodied murder of two senior citizens by silly, vicious gang members changes everything.

According to the Police (who blame every murder on gang rivalry) the two murders are part of the recent flare-up between George Street and Taylor Alley gangs.

Why do we still have these gangs in Belize City?

The previous corrupt and incompetent UDP government must share major blame in this terrible scourge which endured for the last 13 years. Still playing party politics, the sick, hypocritical UDP opposition actually put out a press release on the recent upsurge in violent crime. Dem noh have no shame.

The premeditated assassination of 51 years old Raymond Garcia and 56 year old Wayne Crawford while playing dominoes Saturday night is unacceptable. The killers must be caught. If it means hefty reward for solid information leading to conviction.

It is clear that the authorities have no solution to the murderous rivalries.

Gangs have proliferated. They are everywhere - Ladyville, Punta Gorda, Cayo, in districts and villages. The situation is not getting better. The police and the DPP office are wasting resources fighting marijuana, which gives them favorable arrest and publicity.

We have a problem. No one in the police are able to come up with effective plans and strategies to deal with these dangerous young murderers.

Fighting crime is not just the responsibility of the police. We also appreciate that new the Prime Minister and his cabinet colleagues are fighting many battles on many fronts, all at the same time. We accept that the UDP government left our economy, society and country in a mess. Yet, what is unfolding is absolutely not acceptable. We should consider bringing an expert from Caricom or the Commonwealth.

We also strongly urge the new government to recall what the great George Price did in 1991. He signed a Statutory Instrument establishing a Crimes Commission comprised of top level thinkers. An excellent report was submitted by the Commission. Let’s appoint a new commission, review the Commission’s report and bring it up to date.

In the meantime let us seriously engage our citizens in proper community policing. Much benefits are to be derived from this. We cannot expect the police to be beating up citizens and then asking their families to work closely with police.

The task is urgent.

Let’s get it on.

CARLA BARNETT Carla Barnett has been appointed the Secretary General of Caricom. She becomes the first female to hold the prestigious position. Congratulations are in order.

This is the said same Carla Barnett who was made Financial Secretary under Prime Minister Said Musa.

Under Prime Minister Dean Barrow, Carla Barnett, who holds a Master’s degree and a Doctorate degree was brought into government as a Minister. Dean Barrow is like an opposite of Midas, the fictional character whose touch turned things to gold. Anyone touched by Barrow turned rotten and lost their morals and principles. Some even turned corrupt and turned a blind eye to the worst corruption ever done by any government in Belize.

Carla Barnett will forever be smeared and tainted by her involvement in Barrow’s government.

It is hard to appreciate that she lost her soul and was content to support, apologize and be a part of all that went wrong in Barrow’s government.

Why would she not oppose the stealing of the boledo/lottery which enriched Brads and Anwar while thousands of Belizeans sunk deeper in poverty.

We heard her supporting the secret visit of Barrow to Miami where in a hotel room Barrow personally signed over FIVE HUNDRED and SIXTY MILLION dollars to his then client Ashcroft as payment for BTL. This amount was far in excess of the value of BTL. There was never a word from Doctor Carla as some FIVE HUNDRED MILLION dollars of Petro Carib monies started flying out of the Central Bank. All of those spending were in gross and open violation of the law, the Finance and Audit Act. What transpired was like something out of some backwards, failed state in Africa under the likes of Mobutu Sese Seku or Idi Amin Dada. Incredible but true. Millions of dollars misspent, squandered, stolen, and a silent, facilitating member of the Barrow Team.

In the end the good doctor, on leaving a hated and despised require, kicked out by a whapping margin of voters, had her tattered image besmirched as one of those hustlers who bought a government vehicle, in a fire sale, for way below its actual value.

What a reputation to take the lofty halls of Caricom.

ICON, GENIUS, SUPERSTAR According to knowledgeable journalists, the most recognizable name and

19

image in the world, second only to Jesus, is the name of Bob Marley.

Bob passed away from cancer 11th May 1981. He was 36 years. In our humble opinion, the English speaking Caribbean region has produced many great songwriters and singers. The top three would have to be Bob Marley, (Jamaica) the Mighty Sparrow(Trinidad) and Lord Rhaburn (Belize).

Have no doubt in your minds, Lord Rhaburn is world class as a songwriter, singer and entertainer. It is only in Belize where no prophets are recognized in their own country.

We revisited the words of some of Bob Marley’s songs. Pure genius. He is probably the only artist to take poverty, social justice, racism and the fight against governments and other realistic issues and made a whole successful singing career of it.

“Tell myself a new day is rising. A new day is dawning. Here I am I want you to know where I stand. When the morning gathers the rainbow, want you to know am a rainbow too”…. From “Sun Is Shining”.

In every one of the 31 songs we listened to, we found poetry, biblical words, imaginary and powerful messages. Even in his love songs…

The man had no parallel. No one like him… Nowhere on the planet... Forty years after his death, his music and his messages live on.

BUILD THOSE HOUSES Housing is so very important. From a government and from the society perspective, the building of houses is an ideal job creation for everyone. Contractor, labourer, mason, carpentry, plumber, electrician, painter.

In the last PUP government, many single mothers were able to provide for their families by painting the interior and exterior of the houses.

It is encouraging that several million dollars are in the new budget specifically to build houses for middle income, low income and, even some, no income struggling citizens.

Let the house construction begin.

SACRILEGE In Belize there is a place called Memorial Park. It is (was) always an open space with a few benches, a gazebo and a stage. For over one hundred years that area has been there as a reminder, memorial that Belizeans took part in World War One(1914-1918), World War Two (1939-1945), and perhaps even other wars which did not directly involve Britain (our former colonial masters) such as the Korean War and the Vietnam War. Belizeans have fought and died in wars. May there never be a war between Belize and Guatemala or any other country for that matter. This may be one of the reasons the UDP government allowed Guatemala to take our half of the Sarstoon River- without firing a shot.

Memorial Park, a few years ago was attacked and butchered by a UDP City Council. Large sums of monies were wasted in constructing little vendor’s shacks. The place is no longer a shrine, a memorial to something real, substantial and even spiritual. Our Belizeans volunteered to go to faraway places and give their lives, if necessary, against the cruelty of the Nazi Germans in the last World War. The present City Council should notify the nation of the millions of dollars spent to dishonor fallen soldiers and the memory of the bravery by those war heroes. The Council should dismantle those crony shacks and give them to hard working Belizean women to set up functioning shops on southside.

20

16 MAY

THE BELIZE TIMES

2021

Hospitalizations and deaths of younger people soar due to COVID-19, PAHO Director reports

May 5, 2021 - Countries will need to maintain or increase ICU bed capacity even further if infections continue to rise at current rates. In the past week, nearly 40% of all global COVID-19 deaths took place in the Americas.

Hospitalizations and deaths of younger people are surging as the COVID-19 pandemic accelerates across the Americas, said Carissa F. Etienne, Director of the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO).

“Adults of all ages – including young people – are becoming seriously ill. Many of them are dying,” Dr. Etienne said during her weekly media briefing.

“In Brazil, mortality rates have doubled among those younger than 39, quadrupled among those in their 40s and tripled for those in their 50s between December 2020 and March 2021,” she continued. “This is tragic, and the consequences are dire for our families, our societies and our future.”

She said that hospitalization rates of people under 39 rose by more than 70 percent in Chile during the past few months. In Brazil hospitalizations have been highest among people in their 40s. “In some areas of the U.S., more people in their 20s are now being hospitalized for COVID-19 than people in their 70s,” Dr. Etienne said.

“For much of the pandemic, our hospitals were filled with elderly COVID patients, many of whom had pre-existing conditions that made them more susceptible to severe disease,” Dr. Etienne noted. “But look around intensive care units across our region today. You’ll see they’re filled not only with elderly patients, but also with younger people.”

Since healthy young people are more likely to survive, they may remain in hospitals for weeks, she said. As a result, countries must be prepared for surging hospital demand.

“If infections continue to rise at this rate, we expect that over the next three months, countries across our region will need to maintain and even increase their ICU bed capacity further,” she warned.

Countries should hire and train more health workers and specialized personnel, she said. Existing health workers should be supported “after operating in ‘crisis mode’ for so long,” she added.

“But we also can’t expand ICU capacity indefinitely. There are simply not enough health workers to hire and train in time. Which points us back to the best option: we must all recommit to a comprehensive response grounded in prevention and maintain health care for COVID-19 and other conditions,” Dr. Etienne said.

She said countries must continue public health measures – social distancing, wearing masks and avoiding gatherings in closed spaces. Countries should “re-prioritize testing and contact tracing at the primary care level,” she said. And communication campaigns should be launched to remind younger people that they need to protect themselves.

While vaccines are being rolled out as fast as possible, they are not a shortterm solution –we can’t rely on vaccines to bring down infections when there’s not enough vaccines to go around. They are one part of the comprehensive response that includes prevention through public health measures and improving readiness of health systems.”

Turning to the pandemic’s toll across the Americas, Dr. Etienne noted, “Nearly 40% of all global COVID deaths reported last week took place right here in our region. Today, more Latin American countries than ever before are reporting more than 1,000

COVID cases a day.”

She reported that infections are increasing rapidly in the Guyanas and across Argentina and Colombia, “where weekly case counts are five times higher than they were this time last year.” In Central America, Guatemala is experiencing a significant increase in infections while Costa Rica is reporting record-high infections.

Puerto Rico and Cuba are driving infections in the Caribbean, although cases are also rising in many smaller islands. Nearly 70% of total COVID-19 cases in Anguilla have been reported in the last ten days. Following the eruption of the La Soufriere volcano, cases are rising in St. Vincent and the Grenadines among internally displaced people.

In total, more than 1.3 million people were infected with COVID-19 in the Americas in the last week and more than 36,000 died from COVID-related complications.

Contacts: Daniel Epstein | Nancy Nusser | Sebastián Oliel | Nadia Peimbert-Rappaport; mediateam@paho.org

DEVELOPMENT FINANCE CORPORATION INVITATION TO TENDER FOR THE PROVISION OF INDEPENDENT LEGAL SERVICES FOR TWO YEARS (2021 – 2023) The Development Finance Corporation (DFC) hereby invites tenders from qualifying Law Firms to: 1. Provide legal advice/opinion for new Lines of Credit and contractual arrangements between DFC and third parties.

2. Review loan facilities letters and security documents for large projects.

3. Prepare Writ of Execution for loan recovery cases.

4. Represent DFC in Court on loan recovery cases.

5. Advise on policy matters which affect DFC’s operations.

6. Provide advice on policy recommendations for the improvement of DFC’s products and services, within an acceptable risk framework.

This “Invitation to Tender” and the related “Statement of Work” are posted on the DFC website: www.dfcbelize.org. They are also available at the DFC Headquarters Offices on Bliss Parade, City of Belmopan, and can be forwarded electronically upon requests.

Requests are to be submitted to Ms. Vanessia Burke, Corporate Secretary, Email address: vanessia.burke@dfcbelize.org. Telephone number 822-2350 extension 235.

Tenders are to be prepared as outlined in the “Statement of Work” and submitted in sealed envelopes clearly marked “PROPOSAL – DFC INDEPENDENT LEGAL SERVICES 2021 – 2023”, addressed to: Corporate Secretary Development Finance Corporation Bliss Parade P.O. Box 40 City of Belmopan Belize

SUBMISSION DEADLINE: Tuesday May 25, 2021

16 MAY

THE BELIZE TIMES

2021

Eulogy

ERLA REMAURIE DOMINGUEZ her urgency to warn us claiming that Hurricane Tips was coming and we should be ready.

To say we will miss Gran is an understatement. We know however that we will not be the only ones, the entire neighbourhood will just never be the same. She has touched so many lives with her generosity and her kindness. So many people have come to share their stories of our Gran. Stories of how she helped them, with a meal, with advice. On Mrs Erla Remaurie Dominguez nee Martinez was born on of 5th November 1938 to parents Ubaldo Guzman and Maria Martinez both now deceased. She is also predeceased by her husband, Mr Feliciano Dominguez, her son, Antonio Ahmed Dominguez, and her granddaughter, Rocio, her siblings Carmita Reyes, Amorna Perez, Augustin Waight. She is survived by her children, Rosario Martinez, Adaneli Witz, Eduardo Dominguez, Feliciano Dominguez Jr, Moises Dominguez, Guillermo Dominguez, Julio Cesar Dominguez, Marisol Dominguez and Canaima Dominguez. She is also survived by her in-laws Adalberto Witz, Nur Dominguez, Nayeli Dominguez, and Alberto Dominguez. Also…her grandchildren Luz, Angel, Jose, Teresa, Adalberto, Isalys, Alfonso, Itzayala, Christian, Adrien, Adriel, Juan, John, Mark, Abigail, Julian, Gian and Nia. She is also survived by one brother Rogrel Martinez.

She was known to many as Ms Erla, but to us she was Mom, Gran or Granny. Gran could be found in her favourite spot on her veranda from morning until evening. The neighbourhood could rely on her always for that cheerful greeting as they passed her house on their daily errands. She could be counted on to provide a shady spot to rest, some lively conversation, sage advice, a hot and tasty meal and even match-making services. She was known for her boundless generosity, and her infinite capacity for love. That love was shared freely with anyone and everyone who passed her way but in particular with her close friends and family. Ms. Elda Sutherland, Ms Linda Luna, Mrs Maria Ramirez, Ms Priscilla Arnold and Ms Tomasa Kent were a great source of comfort and joy to her, especially in her last days.

I will always remember her dedication and devotion to our grandfather during his long infirmity. She cared for him selflessly until the end.

She was extremely proud of her grandchildren and what she most enjoyed was their company. Birthdays and any other special occasion were celebrated at her home and she encouraged gatherings by any means necessary so that her children and grandchildren filled her home. She was the life and fire of the party. She was always concerned for her children and would call and inform on the latest weather updates. One time was

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this Mother’s Day we have come together to bid her farewell as a family, and as the community that grew around her because she cultivated it. She is the example of how a seemingly ordinary woman through her faith, her love and her kindness was able to make such a great impact on her community.

In her later years, especially, Gran grew closer to God, and so we are certain that she has flown into the arms of her Creator and is now at Peace. We will miss you and love you and in our hearts you will live eternally.

VACANCY ANNOUNCEMENT

The Pan American Health Organization/World Health Organization (PAHO/WHO) invites applicants for the functions of One-Health technical Consultant.

Duty station: Qualifications: Experience:

Skills:

Belize City Essential: A university degree in public health or veterinary studies.

Desirable: Master’s degree in One Health.

Essential: At least 5 years experience in public health, food safety or zoonotic diseases detection, prevention, and control.

Desirable: Experience in public health or animal health systems in Belize.

•

• • • • • • • • •

Evidence-based knowledge of risk factors, for disease spillover from wildlife to domestic animals and humans, and clear mechanisms to prevent, predict, detect, respond and manage disease outbreaks at local, regional and national level.

Ability to engage relevant sectors and disciplines across the human – animal – environment interface to address health in a way that is more effective, efficient, and sustainable.

Coordination and collaboration, to implement activities across the humananimal interface.

Very good understanding of the One Health approach and how it can be implemented in Belize.

Excellent communication ad interpersonal skills and sensitivity to political and cultural issues.

Ability to work in multisectoral teams and under pressure.

Ability to meet deadlines.

Strong professional oral and writing skills, including the development of reports, oral presentations, and technical/persuasive documents for consideration at the highest levels of the Organization.

Strong interpersonal and communication skills.

Demonstrated ability to effectively use a computer and utilize software programs such as Microsoft Office Word, Excel, PowerPoint, SharePoint, and Outlook. Other IT skills and knowledge of other software programs for Statistical Analysis, Data Exploratory Analysis and Project Management would be an asset.

Languages:

Very good knowledge of English and working knowledge of Spanish

Deadline:

Letter of application, Curriculum Vitae, and two current letters of recommendation should be sent to blzmail@paho.org or to P.O. Box 1834, Belize City no later than 25 May 2021.

For further details visit our website http://new.paho.org/blz/ . An interview will be held for this position and only candidates under serious consideration will be contacted.

PAHO/WHO has a smoke-free environment and does not recruit smokers or users of any form of tobacco.

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16 MAY

THE BELIZE TIMES

2021

TENDER FOR THE SUPPLY OF UNIFORM ITEMS TO THE BELIZE COAST GUARD FOR FISCAL YEAR 2021/22 1. Tenders are invited for the supply of uniform items listed below to the Belize Coast Guard for the period 1st April 2021 to 31st March 2022.

2. Quotation for the supply of uniform items is to be based on Duty Paid Prices. Brand names are to be specified where necessary. Prices that are submitted cannot be change.

3. Please note that 3% contract tax will be withheld.

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

5. Tenders should be in sealed envelope marked “Tender for the Supply of uniform Items 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 28th June 2021 at 1130 am.

LIST OF UNIFORM ITEMS REQUIREMENT BELIZE COAST GUARD Belize Coast Guard, 4 ½ Miles George Price Highway, Belize City SER

Description/ Specifications

Units

Quantity

Remarks/Standards

1

Tropical Blue Shirt

each

250

USCG Standard

2

Tropical Blue Trouser

each

200

USCG Standard

3

Garrison Cap

each

250

USCG Standard

4

Metal CG Emblem

each

100

Gold

5

Bates Lite Shoe - Black

pair

300

Bates Lites

6

Black Nylon Belt

each

200

Military Type

7

Silver Buckle

each

200

Silver

8

Gold Buckle

each

50

Gold

9

Name Plate

each

200

USCG Specs – Trops (hard plastic)

10

PT Shirt w/logo - yellow

each

200

Dry weave

11

PT Short w/logo - black

each

200

Dry weave

12

Sea Bags

each

100

US Navy Waterproof (Black)

13

ODU Midnight Digital Jacket

each

250

Tru Spec

14

ODU Midnight Digital Trouser

each

250

Tru Spec

15

ODU Midnight Digital Navy Caps

each

400

Embroidery

16

Heavy Duty Belts - black

each

100

Rigger

17

Hot weather Combat Boot black

pair

450

Belleville

18

Steel Toe Tropical Boot - black

pair

50

Belleville

20

Digital BELIZE GUARD Tape

450

Match Digital Uniform (cloth)

21

TRU Twisters

pair

450

Tru Spec

22

Digital NAME Tape

each

450

Match Digital Uniform (cloth

23

Unit Patches

each

200

Embroidery

24

Rank Patches

each

100

Match Digital Uniform (cloth)

25

Belize Flag Patch

each

100

Embroidery

26

Coast Guard Patch

each

100

Embroidery

27

Summer White Shirt

each

250

Short Sleeve/Button

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

28

Summer White Trouser

each

250

29

Combination Cover

each

200

Vanguard

30

Bates Lite Shoe - White

pair

50

Bates Lites

31

White Nylon Belt

each

50

Military Type

Members of the public who wish to participate in the auction must submit their bid to the Central Bank of Belize electronically or at the designated drop off box no later than 12:00 noon on Monday, 17 May 2021.

32

Officer Shoulder Boards

pair

50

Vanguard (BELIZE)

33

Officer Ranks

pair

50

Vanguard - Metal

34

Enlisted Ranks

pair

100

Vanguard - Metal

35

Coveralls Navy Blue

each

60

Dickies

36

Service Dress Jacket

each

15

USCG Standard

37

Service Dress Trouser

each

15

USCG Standard

38

Gold Buttons Set

pair

50

Belize Coast Guard Custom made

39

Combat Shirt

each

46

Crye precision G3 woodland

40

Combat Trousers

each

46

Crye precision G3 woodland

41

Tru Spec Shirt

each

23

Woodland true spec

42

Tru Spec pants

each

23

Woodand true spec

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

43

Hydration Pack with Bladder

each

10

44

DD Frontline Hammock Super Light

each

23

CENTRAL BANK OF BELIZE

45

Boonie Cap

each

23

46

Condor 3 Day Assault Pack

each

23

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

47

Condor Plate Carrier

each

12

Crye precision jumpable

48

Rocky CT4 Boots

each

23

Rocky CT4

49

Black Hawk Omnivore M9 Holster

each

23

Black Hawk

30 April 2021

50

Mag Pouch/holster

36

Matrix fast hard shell M4

51

SIM Bolt carrier

each

10

Keisier force 5.56 simulation

52

8-point head dress cover

each

23

woodland

NOTICE

GOVERNNMENT OF BELIZE TREASURY BILLS ISSUE NUMBER 6/2021 Tenders are invited for an issue of Government of Belize Treasury Bills.

The amount of the issue will be $67,408,200.00.

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

They will be issued on Wednesday, 19 May 2021 and will be redeemed on Wednesday, 18 August 2021.

The Auction on the Central Securities Depository System (CSD) will be opened from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm on Wednesday 19 May 2021.

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

Bank: Central Bank of Belize Account: GLICORP0402627

COAST each

each

BDU woodland patrol cap

16 MAY

23

THE BELIZE TIMES

2021

BY ORDER OF CHARGEE NOTICE OF INTENTION TO SELL

BY ORDER OF CHARGEE NOTICE OF INTENTION TO SELL

NATIONAL BANK OF BELIZE LIMITED a company duly incorporated and registered under the Laws of Belize with registered office situate at Parcel 7550 Corner Forest Drive & Hummingbird Highway, Belmopan, Cayo District, Belize hereby gives notice of its intention to exercise its power of sale as Chargee under a Legal Charge between DALE PELAYO hereinafter called “The Chargor” and NATIONAL BANK OF BELIZE LIMITED hereinafter called “The Chargee” which was duly recorded at the Lands Registry in the City of Belmopan on the 20th day of March, 2014 by Instrument No. LRS-201403490. NATIONAL BANK OF BELIZE LIMITED will at the expiration of Two months from the date of the first publication of this notice sell the properties described in the Schedule below.

NATIONAL BANK OF BELIZE LIMITED a company duly incorporated under the Laws of Belize with registered office situate at Parcel 7550 Corner Forest Drive & Hummingbird Highway, Belmopan, Cayo District, Belize hereby gives notice of its intention to exercise its power of sale as Chargee under a Legal Charge between LYNDON RUSSELL GILLETT and RHYMA ANN GILLETT hereinafter called “The Chargors” and NATIONAL BANK OF BELIZE LIMITED hereinafter called “The Chargee” which was duly recorded at the Lands Registry in the City of Belmopan on the 30 th day of January, 2015 by Instrument No. LRS-201501223. NATIONAL BANK OF BELIZE LIMITED will at the expiration of Two months from the date of the first publication of this notice sell the properties described in the Schedule below.

ALL offers to purchase the said property must be made in writing to NATIONAL BANK OF BELIZE LIMITED from whom full particulars and conditions of sale may be obtained.

SCHEDULE ALL THAT piece or parcel of land comprising 0.25 Acres being Parcel 922, Block 24 in the Society Hall Registration Section TOGETHER with all buildings and erections standing and being thereon, the freehold property of DALE PELAYO. DATED this 15th day of April 2021 NATIONAL BANK OF BELIZE LIMITED Corner Forest Drive & Hummingbird Highway, Belmopan, Cayo District

ALL offers to purchase the said property must be made in writing to NATIONAL BANK OF BELIZE LIMITED from whom full particulars and conditions of sale may be obtained.

SCHEDULE ALL THAT piece or parcel of land comprising 464.416 square meters being Parcel 3499, Block 1 in the Corozal North Registration Section TOGETHER with all buildings and erections standing and being thereon, the freehold property of LYNDON RUSSELL GILLETT and RHYMA ANN GILLETT. DATED this 15 th day of April 2021 THE NATIONAL BANK OF BELIZE LIMITED Corner Forest Drive & Hummingbird Highway, Belmopan, Cayo District

BY ORDER OF CHARGEE NOTICE OF INTENTION TO SELL

BY ORDER OF CHARGEE NOTICE OF INTENTION TO SELL

NATIONAL BANK OF BELIZE LIMITED a company duly incorporated and registered under the Laws of Belize with registered office situate at Parcel 7550 Corner Forest Drive & Hummingbird Highway, Belmopan, Cayo District, Belize hereby gives notice of its intention to exercise its power of sale as Chargee under a Legal Charge between FAUSTINO MOH hereinafter called “The Chargor” and NATIONAL BANK OF BELIZE LIMITED hereinafter called “The Chargee” which was duly recorded at the Lands Registry in the City of Belmopan on the 8th day of October, 2014 by Instrument No. LRS-201412899. NATIONAL BANK OF BELIZE LIMITED will at the expiration of Two months from the date of the first publication of this notice sell the properties described in the Schedule below.

NATIONAL BANK OF BELIZE LIMITED, a duly incorporated and registered Company under the Laws of Belize with registered office situate at Parcel 7550 Corner Forest Drive & Hummingbird Highway, Belmopan, Cayo District, Belize hereby gives notice of its intention to exercise its power of sale as Mortgagee under a Deed of Mortgage made BETWEEN ELSTAN LORD (hereinafter called “the Mortgagor”) and NATIONAL BANK OF BELIZE LIMITED (hereinafter called “the Mortgagee”) which was duly recorded at the Land Titles Unit in the City of Belmopan on the 26th day of August, 2015 as Instrument No. LTU-201501452. NATIONAL BANK OF BLIZE LIMITED will at the expiration of Two months from the date of the first publication of this notice sell the property described in the SCHEDULE below.

All offers to purchase the said property must be made in writing to NATIONAL BANK OF BELIZE LIMITED from whom full particulars and conditions of sale may be obtained.

ALL offers to purchase the said properties must be made in writing to NATIONAL BANK OF BELIZE LIMITED from whom full particulars and conditions of sale may be obtained.

THE SCHEDULE ABOVE REFERRED TO ALL THAT piece or parcel of land comprising 10.96 Acres being Parcel 200/1, Block 1 in the CONCEPCION/AVENTURA Registration Section TOGETHER with all buildings and erections standing and being thereon, the freehold property of FAUSTINO MOH. ALL THAT piece or parcel of land comprising 10 Acres being Parcel 202/1, Block 1 in the CONCEPCION/AVENTURA Registration Section TOGETHER with all buildings and erections standing and being thereon, the freehold property of FAUSTINO MOH. DATED this 15th day of April 2021

THE SCHEDULE ABOVE REFERRED TO ALL THAT PIECE OR PARCEL of land being Lot No. 52 (775.443) square meters of land situated North of Bermudian Landing-Burrell Boom Road, Bryam Estate Area, Belize District bounded and described as shown on Plan No. 40 of 2007, Entry No.1404 Reg No. 12, attached to Minister’s Fiat Grant No. 40 of 2007 TOGETHER will all buildings erections and developments standing and being thereon.

NATIONAL BANK OF BELIZE LIMITED

NATIONAL BANK OF BELIZE LIMITED

Corner Forest Drive & Hummingbird Highway, Belmopan, Cayo District BELIZE

Corner Forest Drive & Hummingbird Highway, Belmopan, Cayo District BELIZE

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Ministry of Agriculture Receives Farming Equipment Belmopan. May 7, 2021. 1:00 p.m.

The Ministry of Agriculture, Food Security and Enterprise received a tractor with forage harvester, a used Mitsubishi four-wheel drive pickup, and other farm implements from the Embassy of the Republic of China (Taiwan) in Belize.

The donation was facilitated through the Breeding Sheep and Goat Production and Guidance System Enhancement Project (Sheep Project Phase II) and will be used at the National Sheep and Goat Breeding Center (NSGBC) in Central Farm.

The tractor and forage harvester combined with attachments for bush-hog, plow and harrow, posthole drill, front end loader and a 16-foot trailer has a combined value of BZ$143,625 and is part of the outputs achieved under the Sheep Project Phase II. This markedly successful phase of the project will enhance the harvesting of grass and forage to feed the 400 head of sheep and goats at the NSGBC. It will also improve the production of corn forage silage to provide for nutritional demands for the productivity of the sheep. Another notable output to achieve later this year is the construction of another modern barn measuring 60 feet by 135 feet to create needed space to accommodate more imported sheep and goat breeding stock.

H.E. David Kuan-Chou Chien, Ambassador of the Republic of China (Taiwan), handed over the donation to Hon. Jose Abelardo Mai, Minister of Agriculture, Food Security and Enterprise, and Mr. Servulo Baeza, chief executive officer of the ministry. Mr. Andrew Harrison, chief agriculture officer, supervised the procurement procedure and inspection of the equipment to ensure all were in good condition.

The Sheep Project Phase II includes a budget of US$3 million for a four-year implementation ending March 2024. The objectives are, among others, to continue assistance to farmers to improve the quality of their sheep and goats; to conduct 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.

The Government of Taiwan reaffirms its commitment to continue supporting the Government of Belize through the successful implementation of the Breeding Sheep and Goat Production and Guidance System Enhancement Project in order to fulfill Belize’s production potential and industry expansion.

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

We are looking for a highly motivated, goal-oriented, responsible and committed person to join our Company in the role of Engineer in the Distribution Services Division.

Duties: • Perform detailed calculations to compute and establish construction and installation standards and specifications, including the design and production of appropriate construction or maintenance drawings, using Computer-Assisted Design (CAD) software.

• Inspect completed installations and observe operations, to ensure conformance to design and equipment specifications, and compliance with operational and safety standards.

• Direct and coordinate construction, installation, maintenance, support, documentation, and testing activities to ensure compliance with specifications, codes and standards.

• Prepare and interpret specifications, drawings and regulations for the use of electric power equipment to ensure that installation and operations conform to standards and customer requirements.

• Develop budgets, estimating labour, material, and construction costs, and assist in developing capital investment programs for BEL including projects for reliability improvement, system efficiency, new equipment and major system upgrades and repairs.

• Compile data, conduct engineering reviews and write reports regarding existing and potential engineering studies and projects.

• Conduct field surveys and study maps, graphs, diagrams, and other data to identify and correct power system problems.

• Oversee project design, procurement and implementation to ensure projects are completed satisfactorily, on time and within budget.

• Conduct research in power system related topics for implementation within BEL. Education and Experience: • Bachelor of Science Degree in Electrical Engineering Required Skills and Abilities: • Must be able to perform basic calculations required to determine economic and financial viability of projects • Possess the ability to work independently, think critically, identify, analyse and solve problems • Demonstrate excellent research, planning and organizational skills • Natural passion for computing and technical design • Natural inclination to be practical and creative • Excellent oral and written communication skills • Must be action and results oriented • Must be service and customer focused • Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and related software programming Salary: In accordance with Company’s salary structure Kindly submit application letter along with resume, copy of degrees and certificates and three (3) recent professional letters of recommendation to: Manager, Talent Acquisition and Development Email: career.opportunity@bel.com.bz In the email subject, please indicate the position: Engineer Only electronic applications are being accepted at this time.

For more information or queries, call us: 227-0954 Ext. 1404 or 1416 Deadline: Friday, May 21, 2021

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REQUEST FOR EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST

Consultancy Services for Data Collection for Belize Energy Sector Planning

Energy Resilience and Climate Change Adaptation Project

e

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Minister of Public Utilities, Energy and Logistics Completes Tour Belmopan. May 11, 2021.

4:30 p.m.

Hon. Rodwell Ferguson, Minister of Public Utilities, Energy and Logistics, and Mr. Marconi Leal Jr., CEO in the Ministry, concluded a two-day familiarization tour on Caye Caulker and Ambergris Caye on May 5-6, 2021.

On May 5, Minister Ferguson visited Belize Water Services

Limited, Belize Telemedia Limited, and the post office on both islands. Discussions were held with the officers in charge about plans to provide more efficient services to Belizeans and visitors alike.

Minister Rodwell also met with the traffic committees for Caye Caulker and San Pedro. The meetings focused on challenges such as parking, land and water taxis, and infrastructural develop-

ments.

The Minister concluded his tour by visiting the Port Authority in San Pedro Town, Ambergris Caye. The visit focused on future expansion of the port to better accommodate transportation for commuters and freight services.

Minister Rodwell thanked the management of the offices visited for their ongoing work and committed to collaborating for

INSERT27 3 enhancements and growth in the future.

Hon. Andre Perez, Minister of Blue Economy and Civil Aviation, and Mayor Wally Nunez of San Pedro Town accompanied Hon. Ferguson in San Pedro.

Accompanying the Minister in Caye Caulker were Ms. Seleny Villanueva, chairperson of the Caye Caulker Village Council, and Mr. Reymundo Nunez, chairperson of the Caye Caulker traffic committee. Also present on the tour were senior staff in the Ministry of Public Utilities, Energy and Logistics.

STRENGTHENING OF TAX ADMINISTRATION PROJECT REQUEST FOR EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST Consulting Firm to Design, Implement and Execute a Countrywide Public Awareness and Marketing Campaign Institution: The Ministry of Finance (MOF) Country: Belize Project: Strengthening of Tax Administration (STA) Abstract: Consulting Services – Consulting Firm to Design, Implement and Execute a comprehensive Public Awareness and Marketing Campaign before, during and after the implementation of the NEW procured Integrated Tax Administration System (ITAS).

Loan No.: 4839/OC-BL Deadline: May 28, 2021, Belize Local Time The Government of Belize (GOB) has received financing from the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) for the execution of a five-year tax modernization project entitled “Strengthening of Tax Administration” (BL-L1031). The main beneficiaries of the Project are: (a) the Government, which will have more revenues to implement its public policies; (b) taxpayers, who will have more support and a digital environment to fulfil their tax obligations; and (c) the population, from the government policies implemented. Through this project, the Belize Tax Service (BTS) Department has procured a Modern Integrated Tax Administration System (the Revenue Management System (RMS)) and is presently in the implementation process. This new system will be used in the management of the Belize Tax Administration.

information demonstrating that they have the required qualifications and relevant experience to perform the services (brochures, description of similar assignments specifying start and end dates of assignments, experience in similar conditions, availability of appropriate skills, etc.). The term “consultant” means a legally-established professional consulting firm or an entity that may provide the services.

Expression of Interest package should contain: (i) Document explaining interest, experience, and competence of the consulting firm. (ii) Firms experience in the assignment of similar consultancy services during the past five years. Description of similar assignments specifying start and end dates of assignments. (iii) Firms evidence of past jobs. (iv) Two references (v) Proof of nationality: Copy of certificate of incorporation and information of shareholders of company specifying the shares owned by each respective shareholder of the company.

Additional documentation required for National Consultants: (vi) Copy of Certificate of Good Standing from Belize Company Registry (vii) Copy of Certificate of Good Standing from the Social Security Board (viii) Copy of Certificate of Good Standing from the Belize Tax Service (ix) Current Trade License

The consulting services (“the services”) includes the contracting of a consulting firm for a period of twelve (12) months to Design, Implement and Execute a comprehensive Public Awareness and Marketing Campaign for the promotion of the new procured ITAS system. Informing the public that this new system is intended to allow for the BTSD to accomplish its future Business Model Principles which aims to be a fully automated process with seamless integration with other entities, data driven and taxpayer centric. The new ITAS system focuses on improving services which will allow for a 360 view of a taxpayer tax account to be both face to face and online, improve compliance and increase revenue collection. The New ITAS system will be taxpayer centric which will allow taxpayer to access and manage their tax account online. The main activities of the consultancy includes:

Consultants will be selected in accordance with the procedures set out in the Inter-American Development Bank: Policies for the Selection and Contracting of Consultants financed by the InterAmerican Development Bank (GN-2350-15, May 2019 edition) and is open to all eligible consultants as defined in the IDB policies.

1.

A Consultant will be selected in accordance with the Selection based on the Consultants’ Qualification method set out in the IDB Consultant Policies. The selected consulting firm will be selected based on its experience and competence relevant to the assignment and most appropriate qualifications and references. Only the highest ranked consulting firm from the short-listed firms will be notified and will be asked to submit a technical and price proposal.

2.

3.

4.

Develop, and Map out the communication strategy and action plan for the Pre, During and Post ITAS implementation Design and Develop various communication materials targeting internal and external stakeholders, using different and relevant modes of communication in a continuous and progressive phased-out approach consistent with the Pre, During and Post ITAS Implementation.

Production, Broadcasting and Dissemination of various communication materials targeting internal and external stakeholders in a continuous and progressive phased-out approach consistent with the Pre, During and Post ITAS Implementation.

Evaluation of the effectives of the public awareness communication campaign

The Consulting firm should have a minimum of five (5) years’ experience in the following areas below (* are a must): *Development of change management campaigns *Advertisement campaigns *Audio-visual production *Graphic design Educational campaigns Communication planning Strategic communication Communications marketing Digital content creation.

The firm should prove its expertise in conducting large communication activities, at national and local level, and conducted at least two PR campaigns of similar type in the last 5 years in Belize or in the Caribbean, the firm should have specific experience in at least one similar assignment in Belize for citizen engagement and outreach activities in the past five (5) years, and experience in organizing events (workshops, trainings, conferences targeting different groups: citizens, national and local public administration, mass media, NGOs etc.).

The Ministry of Finance now invites eligible consulting firms (“Consultants”) to indicate their interest in providing the services. Interested eligible Consultants must submit an Expression of Interest providing

Consultants may associate with other firms in the form of a joint venture or a sub-consultancy to enhance their qualifications. For the purpose of establishing the short list, the nationality of a firm is that of the country in which it is legally incorporated or constituted and in the case of Joint Venture, the nationality of the firm appointed to represent it.

Further information can be obtained at the address below during office hours Monday to Friday 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Expressions of interest must be delivered via direct mail or e-mail at the address indicated below by 4:00 p.m. on Friday May 28, 2021.

Interested consulting firms are asked to submit their expression of interest via e-mail to Michelle.

Longsworth@bts.gov.bz marked STAP- Consulting Firm to Design, Implement and Execute a Countrywide Public Awareness and Marketing Campaign in the subject header, or submit on or before Friday May 28, 2021 to the following address: Director General Belize Tax Service Strengthening of Tax Administration Project Charles Bartlett Hyde Building Mahogany Street, Belize City Tel: 501-222-5114 For clarifications kindly contact: Project Coordinator Project Executing Unit Strengthening of Tax Administration Project Charles Bartlett Hyde Building Mahogany Street, Belize City Tel: 501-222-5114/E-mail: gisel.correa@mof.gov.bz

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BPCC awarded prestigious Fulbright Scholar-in-Residence Bossier Parish Community College is proud to announce it has been awarded a Fulbright Scholar-in-Residence by the Worldwide Fulbright Scholar-in-Residence Program.

BPCC is the first community college in Louisiana and one of only a handful of community colleges nationwide to be awarded this prestigious honor. BPCC was matched with Dr. Sandra Carballo, Chair of the Department of Humanities at Corozal Junior College in Corozal, Belize to share in this unique experience.

Dr. Carballo is the first scholar from Belize to be awarded the Fulbright Scholar-in-Residence and will

remain in residence through BPCC’s summer semester.

The Fulbright Scholar-in-Residence Program

brings visiting scholars from abroad to lecture at U.S. colleges and universities for one semester or one academic year. Scholars have a significant impact upon higher education communities by teaching courses, giving community lectures, helping initiate international programs, and contributing to curriculum development.

Dr. Carballo will partner with BPCC Assistant Professor Kirk Fontenot (Liberal Arts) to teach several developmental writing courses at the College.

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Fontenot commented, “We are eager to welcome Dr. Carballo to the Liberal Arts Division this summer.

Our students will obviously benefit by learning about both writing and culture from such an engaging instructor, but I also look forward to gleaning fresh perspectives as I work alongside her.”

While on campus, Carballo will also lead several presentations on Belizean history and culture. Members of the public are cordially invited to attend, and more information will be distributed when available.

There are still a few class openings for the developmental writing courses to be taught by Dr. Carballo and Professor Fontenot. Contact Allison Martin at amartin@bpcc.edu for more information.

For more information on the Fulbright Scholar-in-Residence Program, please visit https://cies.org/ sir.

EDUCATION CELEBRATION 2021: MAY 9 -14

“REIMAGINING THE FUTURE: EDUCATION, COMMUNITY, AND WELLNESS” PRESS RELEASE

PR#284

Keynote Message by Hon. Dr. Louis Zabaneh, represents Dangriga

MOHW Announces Arrival of Second Shipment of COVID-19 Vaccines Belmopan. May 13, 2021. 4:15 p.m.

Belize received 33,600 doses of AstraZeneca vaccine yesterday via the COVAX Facility, a partnership between the Government of Belize, Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI), the Vaccine Alliance Gavi, the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), the World Health Organization (WHO), and UNICEF. This arrival to Belize is the second in a series of shipments of vaccines to enter the country through the COVAX Facility in its effort to deliver at least two billion doses of COVID-19 vaccines by the end of 2021. The shipment signals another milestone in a historic effort to ensure equitable distribution of COVID-19 vaccines globally in what will be the largest vaccine procurement and supply operation in history.

As Belize continues to call out for persons in phase one, two, and three of the national deployment plan, the arrival of the vaccines are a timely replenishment as current stock in country approach their expiration in date.

Hon. Michel Chebat, Minister of Health & Wellness, was pleased about the arrival yesterday and recognizes the effort of each of the 48,515 persons vaccinated up to May 10, 2021. He noted, “By getting vaccinated we are all contributing to contain the negative outcomes associated to COVID-19. This shipment has arrived two days before administering the last doses of the current stock.”

“The arrival of this new shipment of vaccines is reassuring because this means that those who have received their first doses can now receive their second dose without delays,” said Dr. Noreen Jack, PAHO/WHO Representative of Belize. “Additionally, using a platform like COVAX ensures fair and equitable access to the COVID-19 vaccinations for countries like Belize to keep their population protected against Sars-CoV-2.”

Alison Parker, UNICEF Representative for Belize stated, “The current situation in several parts of the world underscores why we cannot grow lax in our approach to fighting this pandemic. We must remain vigilant and continue the important task of protection and prevention - vaccinating our population to increase immunity and protect the vulnerable among us as grandmothers, parents, and teachers are crucial to the safety, wellbeing, and protection of children. By staying the course, we can reduce the number of persons that contract COVID-19 and continue on our steady and safe path to returning our citizenry, especially the children, to a state of normalcy.”

The Ministry of Health & Wellness reiterates the call for persons whose phases have been called to get vaccinated. The public is reminded that even after receiving the COVID-19 vaccine, persons are to continue to follow COVID-19 guidelines and wear masks properly in public, maintain physical distancing, and wash and sanitize hands often. Please stay at home and call the Ministry’s hotline at 0-800-664-2273 for more information.

Ends

Minister of State in the Ministry of Education, Culture, Science and Technology Greetings. The Theme for this year’s Education Week is “Reimagining the Future: Education, Community, and Wellness.” The very nature of transformational education is to continuously reimagine a better future with a more prosperous, secure community made up of happy, healthy, caring, and productive people.

Our teachers, principals, managements, and Ministry of Education, who comprise the main providers of education, are engaged in delivering services to over 107,000 students and their families across the entire system of over 630 institutions. We wish to thank and salute them as we celebrate Education Week, and we encourage them as they continue to work together to make our education truly transformational.

The exciting journey to reform our entire education system has commenced and we are seeking the participation of all stakeholders.

Students and parents are central to this reform process, as they are the primary agents and beneficiaries of our education services. Their assessment and evaluation must always be sought to ensure the highest quality service and outcomes.

Employers are also essential stakeholders who will help to guide us in the areas of relevance and effectiveness. Our graduates

must be well prepared to hit the ground running in both present and future industries, adding to the productivity of our economy. And the community at large has a stake in this reformation process, including community leaders, NGOs, and other social partners. Our graduates must be positive contributors to social cohesion, take up their responsibilities to strengthen our democracy, and be citizens who promote sustainable human development through their individual and collective agency.

Greater access and equity are vital in our reimagined education system. Children from families with little resources and influence and those living in remote areas must have equal access to high quality education. Technology has now proven its worth as we have adopted to a changed world due to the Covid-19 Pandemic. We will continue to harness the power of science and technology to deliver higher quality education to all our students, and to bring cutting-edge ideas and inputs to our various economic sectors and society on a whole.

Our reimagined future is one in which we will contribute globally to the attainment of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals through an effective, efficient, equitable education system that graduates confident transformational leaders who will themselves be our new reality and the source of new imagination for a sustainable future.

On behalf of Minister Francis Fonseca and our entire Team at the Ministry of Education, Happy Education Week!

May God bless us with success in our plans and endeavors so we may attain our just objectives.

Thank you!