Belize Times November 29, 2020- A Real Plan

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The Belize Times

29 NOV

THE BELIZE TIMES

2020

Established 1957

29 NOVEMBER 2020 | ISSUE NO: 5226

The Truth Shall Make You Free

www.belizetimes.biz | $1.00

A REAL PLAN Announced by Minister Chebat

$15 Million for Fighting COVID Minister Chebat has announced that 15 million dollars has been approved by Cabinet for use for the next few months in direct combat of the spread of the coronavirus.

The first Press Conference of the Briceño Administration placed priority where it should—curbing the spread of the killer virus which flourished under UDP no plan policy.

The community spread of the killer virus is presently totally unharnessed and Belize is experiencing numbers that percentage-wise are higher than that of our neighbours, at this point in time.

Our Government is even talking about returning the canoes to the flood stricken residents of Santa Cruz village.

Crossing the border into Mexico is still unlawful but the threat of the coronavirus is greater here in Belize. It is in our homes and no one is safe. Belizeans need to practise the protocols even beyond the requests made by government.

The public use of mask mandated should be practised also in the homes especially when one is visiting the vulnerable Belizeans.

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Flood Relief

5,000 Families to get Food Relief GET WELL SOON PM JOHN BRICEÑO

MEMBER OF ORDER OF DISTINGUISHED SERVICE PASSES Ms. Lenna ‘Birdie’ Sealy

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UDP BORROWED 1 MILLION DOLLARS PER DAY The Pantry Story

BOOTS, BOOST & THE UDP STICKY FINGERS

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16 DAYS OF ACTIVISM #Orange Belize: Respond, Prevent, Collect and Empower

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29 NOV

THE BELIZE TIMES

A REAL PLAN

Continued from page 1 We are hearing of vaccines having success but we will see vaccinated tourists before we can see Belizeans getting inoculated. In the meantime we need to increase our level of safety.

The fight against the coronavirus has been devoid of leadership up to this point. We will all now rally behind the PM, Minister Chebat and most importantly with our families and beat this virus. When or turn comes for the vaccine, we will have for the most part stopped the spread and be ready to annihilate it.

It is very worth mentioning that the Belize Community Pharmacists Association (BCPA) extended congratulations to the new Minister of Health, Michel Chebat and the new Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Dr. Deysi Mendez. They are one of the partners alluded to by Hon. Chebat that it would take to fight off the virus.

BCPA release: “Along with the Medical and Dental Association and Nurses, we Pharmacists daily interact with the general public on health matters. We are committed to face the present state of COVID threat now seeming out of control and offer all support to the Ministry of Health in our effort to overcome COVID,” Ahead is Minister’s Chebat speech and more details.

Minister of Health and Wellness Announces New Measures for COVID-19 Hon. Michel Chebat November 26, 2020 Good Morning, I would like to start today expressing my sympathy to all our citizens who have lost family members and friends to this pandemic.

Additionally, I wish to thank all our Doctors, Nurses, Public Health Inspectors, Lab Technicians, Contract Tracers, and all our front-line workers for the tireless service they have been providing during this pandemic.

We assumed office a little over a week ago, and this is what we found: 1. No clear strategic plan with budget.

2. No testing strategy. Up to the end of July, MOH Headquarters decided who get tested, the personnel on the ground did not have much say in this.

3. Processing of swabs for PCR was and still is centralized. This has resulted in a serious backlog of approximately 2,182 PCR’s at the Central Lab waiting to be processed.

4. People being tested are not being given their results in time. This has contributed to the spread of COVID in the country.

5. Despite a clear offer from BAHA and IAEA in April to assist with PCR testing to the MOH, this offer was not taken up. IAEA offered to purchase consumables for testing.

6. Our government hospitals are not fully ready to deal with a surge in case should the need arise, this is despite the fact that the MOH had ample time to rectify and address the gaps.

7. Ministry of Finance (MOF) reduced budget for all ministries including MOH by 40%. This despite the fact that MOH required to respond to the pandemic.

8. Overtime for health workers 9. Restriction in hiring of staff. MPS has request sitting there for months with requests from MoH for approval to hire new staff.

10. Limited masks and PPE’s for HCW’s 11. There was a lull during the lockdown for approximately 1 month when there were no cases reported. The previous administration should have used this time to develop a clear strategic plan to deal with the pandemic and equip the hospitals and healthcare workers with the needed supplies.

12. Shortages of Doctors, Nurses, and testing equipment.

This is the card we have been dealt but this Government has, with the help of medical Experts and the Private and Public sector, created a plan moving forward.

We will do all we can do to curb the transmission. But this is not something we can do alone.

This will require the Private and Public Sector work h together, but in addition, it will require each of you to take this pandemic seriously and to change your behaviour.

This virus is being spread thought human contact.

On this past Tuesday, the Proposal for Surge Capacity and Containment of Covid-19 was presented to cabin6and approval was given for the injection of 15 million into the system.

OUT

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Dear Editor, I pen this letter in utter disgust and anger. How dare the UDP administration try to handcuff the newly elected PUP Government by giving cronies and CEO’s lucrative long-term contracts just weeks or days before the General Elections?

This has become a modus operandi of the UDP. No decency or respect with these guys. Barrow is a son of a ____ if he allowed or even condoned such contracts. I can even go to the point of alleging that he encouraged such.

Piggyback to former Belize City Mayor Darrel Bradley who signed a multi-year contract with Candice Miller that ended up costing the taxpayers of Belize City a handsome sum of money. Cold hard cash that could have gone into the delivery of the goods and services the city needed ended up in the hands of a callous don’t give a damn former city administrator. What happened with Candice Miller is unforgivable. Both Candice and her former boss deserves nothing less than to be swing from the Swing Bridge. They are blood suckers and leeches.

Editor I am in no wise condoning of violence. What Bradley and Miller did is despicable and they do not deserve to be among decent human beings.

Fast forward to the Barrow administration. Let us start with the Boledo Contract issued to Brads and to some degree Anwar Barrow for ten years just four months before the General Elections. This Specific recommendations: 1. Improve Surveillance and Testing Capacities a. Immediate – implement and scale up the use of rapid test in all district hospitals for symptomatic and close contacts. b. Hire additional staff including (ex. laboratory technicians, lab aides, contact tracers and data entry clerks). c. Active Surveillance with Ministry of Health teams at private businesses. d. Establish testing sites outside of the hospital in accessible areas in urban communities and create two mobile swabbing teams for rural communities.

2. Surge Capacity for Hospital Services a. Hiring of additional human resources such as nurses, doctors, specialist heath staff, support staff for deployment to all regional and community hospitals. b. Acquisition of additional medical equipment and supplies.

3. National Public Health Measures for Containment a. Implement curfew from 9:00 p.m. to 5:00 a.m. for 21 days effective Saturday, November 28, 2020. b. Restriction of gatherings remains at 10 people at general public places, including the immediate household. c. Every organization is expected to implement work from home orders and/or staff shift rotation for employees. d. Provide food packages and stipend to families in quarantine in conjunction with the Ministry of Human Development, Families & Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs. e. Provide hotel for persons who cannot quarantine at home. f. Assess housing conditions to determine adequacy for isolation and/or quarantine. g. Enforcement of Quarantine Measures in conjunction with the Ministry of Home Affairs and New Growth Industries. h. Provide accommodation and other logistics for health care personnel. i. New Health Education Campaign to reach both public and private sector in collaboration with the media and Non-Governmental Organization. j. Restaurants without outdoor dining to have takeout and delivery service only. k. Outdoors restaurants are allowed to operate with a maximum of 12 persons. l. Churches can conduct service but it remains at 10 persons maximum m. Bars remain closed. n. Gymnasiums are to remain closed.

2020

must be CRIMINAL. If not criminal totally unethical and borders on serious mental insanity. Add to this the contracts given to CEOs and Directors of various boards and Statutory Bodies.

Now Editor, it is one thing for these corrupt politicians, Dean Barrow included, to turn a blind eye or encourage this skullduggery. It is another thing for professionals in their greed to lose all shame and decency and go along with it. Were I Karen Bevans, I would have already tendered my resignation. It is the decent and professional thing to do. It is obvious that professionalism and decency has gone out the back door and these people must be shamed and disgraced out of their lucrative contracts.

I am happy that PM Briceño has indicated that his government will within the first hundred days pass retroactive legislation to weed out these leeches and I would be elated if this legislation also touches those leeches at the Municipal level so that we never have another Candice Miller…..EVER. This legislation cannot come soon enough.

My humble advice to all these people sitting on Boards and in positions that were politically appointed. Save yourself the embarrassment and resign.

The people of Belize by a huge majority said they were done with the UDP and with Corruption.

Get the HELL OUT…your time is up ….UDP days are over, and that makes you ‘collateral damage’…Dean Se So….

Thanks Editor Real Talk

The Belize Times

Established 1957

14 APR 2013

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ISSUE NO: 4840

The Truth Shall Make You Free

www.belizetimes.bz

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$1.00

serving Belize since 1957 as the longest continuous newspaper.

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

Fay Castillo EDITOR

José Jiménez

LAYOUT/GRAPHIC ARTIST

Chris Williams

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

Email: belizetimesadvertisement@yahoo.com

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29 NOV

2020

THE BELIZE TIMES

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EDITORIAL

I

Just Like the Three Monkeys!

t is exactly sixteen days since the general election. Sixteen days since the good people of Belize came out and gave the PUP their mandate. Already the true state of our country’s affairs are slowly coming to light. The situation is worse than we had imagined, for all intents and purposes the country had been left on autopilot. In the days and months of her greatest need, Belize, had been left steward less by that way ward bunch. There was no containment or contingency plan for the Covid-19 pandemic. The entire Ministry of Health seemed to be making it up as they go because they lacked leadership. Minister of Health & Wellness Chebat has come in to restore order and has in the last week, together with his team, prepared and charted a way forward.

The curfew for the next twenty one days to contain the spread and other measures which will prioritize testing and take it to the known hotspots is only the beginning. Arrangements will be made for those affected that cannot isolate at home and care packages for all those who test positive for the virus. This will encourage them to stay home and comply with the quarantine orders. In addition more staff to test, trace and treat those afflicted will be the first order of business. Front line workers will also be assisted with quarters to isolate and all the necessary equipment and support their efforts. An aggressive public awareness campaign against the spread of the virus will be launched. The MOH will require both private and public sectors to have employees work from home where possible and in rotating shifts when necessary.

It is refreshing to hear first-hand from the Minister of Health himself the plan to combat the pandemic. His leadership brings comfort in that we have someone that is competent, articulate and will get the job done. It seems that the fresh new BLU breeze has lifted the fog from the BMDA, and we have finally heard from them in regards to the current health crisis. We can certainly agree that the time to fire health practitioners is definitely not during a worldwide pandemic. However, for the last thirteen years the only time we have had any evidence of the existence of this group was to protect their own membership from being victimized or fired.

The BMDA claims that they also look out for the interests of the general public in regards to health issues, even though we have seen no real evidence of this.

We had previously called out the Belize Medical and Dental Association (BMDA) for their inaction and silence on many issues affecting the public health system. They remained quiet and meek. Where was the outrage of the BMDA when the rats that infested the hospitals chewed on a newborn’s toe? Where was the outrage when the thirteen babies succumbed in the neonatal unit of the KHMH? The ceiling came tumbling down at the KHMH and the emergency area was overrun by raccoons. The BMDA saw no evil, heard no evil and most definitely did not speak against the evil. It is good that they have finally decided to join the fight against the common enemy, and join the new Minister of Health as he moves forward with his plan. It is our sincerest hope that now the BMDA collaborates fully and in earnest for the benefit of all Belizeans.

The Honourable Michel Chebat and his team are off to a great start, their every success is to our benefit and so we wish them Godspeed.

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THE BELIZE TIMES

EDITORIAL

29 NOV

2020

en Español

¡Igual que los tres monitos!

H

an pasado exactamente 16 días desde las elecciones generales. Dieciséis días desde que la buena gente de Belice salió y le dio su mandato al PUP. El verdadero estado de los asuntos de nuestro país está saliendo lentamente a la luz. La situación es peor de lo que habíamos imaginado, a todos los efectos el país se había dejado en piloto automático. En los días y meses de su mayor necesidad, Belice, andaba sin dirección a la costa de ese grupo de descarriados.

No había ningún plan de contención ni de contingencia para la pandemia de Covid-19. Todo el Ministerio de Salud y Bienestar parecía estar inventándose sobre la marcha por falta de liderazgo. El Ministro de Salud y Bienestar Chebat vino a restaurar el orden y en la semana pasada, junto con su equipo, preparó y trazó un camino a seguir.

El toque de queda para los próximos 21 días para contener la propagación y otras medidas que priorizarán las pruebas y las llevarán a los puntos críticos conocidos es sólo el comienzo. Se harán arreglos para los afectados que no puedan ser aislados en casa y paquetes de atención para todos los que den positivo en las pruebas del virus. Esto los animará a quedarse en casa y cumplir con las órdenes de cuarentena. Además, más personal para probar, rastrear y tratar a los afectados será la primera orden del día. Los trabajadores de primera línea también serán asistidos con cuartos para aislarse y todo el equipo necesario y apoyar sus esfuerzos. Se lanzará una campaña agresiva contra la propagación del virus. El Ministerio de Salud y Bienestar requerirá que tanto el sector privado como el público tengan a sus empleados trabajando desde sus casas cuando sea posible y en turnos rotativos cuando sea necesario.

Es refrescante escuchar de primera mano del propio Ministro de Salud y Bienestar el plan para combatir la pandemia. Su liderazgo nos reconforta al saber que tenemos a alguien que es competente, articulado y que hará el trabajo. Parece que la nueva y fresca brisa BLU ha levantado la niebla del BMDA, y finalmente hemos escuchado de ellos en relación con la actual crisis de salud. Ciertamente podemos estar de acuerdo en que el momento de despedir a los profesionales de la salud definitivamente no es durante una pandemia mundial. Sin embargo, durante los últimos trece años la única vez que hemos tenido alguna evidencia de la existencia de este grupo fue para proteger a sus propios miembros de ser victimizados o despedidos. El BMDA afirma que también velan por los intereses del público en general en lo que respecta a las cuestiones de salud, aunque no hemos visto ninguna prueba real de ello.

Anteriormente habíamos llamado al BMDA por su inacción y silencio en muchas cuestiones que afectaban al sistema de salud pública. Permanecieron callados y mansos. ¿Dónde estaba la indignación de la BMDA cuando las ratas que infestaron los hospitales masticaron el dedo del pie de un recién nacido? ¿Dónde estaba la indignación cuando los trece bebés sucumbieron en la unidad neonatal del KHMH? El techo se derrumbó en el KHMH y el área de emergencia fue invadida por mapaches. El BMDA no vio el mal, no escuchó el mal ni definitivamente habló en contra del mal.

Es bueno que finalmente hayan decidido unirse a la lucha contra el enemigo común, y unirse al nuevo Ministro de Salud mientras avanza con su plan. Es nuestra más sincera esperanza que ahora el BMDA colabore plenamente y en serio para el beneficio de todos los beliceños. El Honorable Michel Chebat y su equipo han tenido un gran comienzo, todos sus éxitos son para nuestro beneficio y por eso les deseamos buena suerte.

29 NOV

2020

VOICE OF THE COMMON MAN

THE PANTRY STORY BOOTS, BOOST AND THE UDP STICKY FINGERS

By Hilly Bennett ”There is a great shame in our leaders when life is made less than what it could be because of a lack of opportunity.” Alec Ross A preliminary audit and assessment have been conducted on the various departments within the Public Service. Revelation is forthcoming that there were rampant irregularities and occurrences bordering on criminality involving politically-connected UDPs. The President of the Public Service Union in a release to the nation expressed concerns regarding 170 vehicles unaccounted for at the Ministry of National Security. The “fire sale” of government high end furniture and one government vehicle being sold for “crackhead” price has created outrage amongst Public Officers who had to submit to a pay cut because of the coronavirus pandemic. Notwithstanding, areas of waste were not considered.

Unfortunately, the Human Development Department was not spared the unconscionable acts of mal-administration. Evidence showed how the UDP operatives used the various social programs as their personal piggy bank.

BOOST, FOOD PANTRY became the red hallmark of the Dean Barrow/Faber administration’s greatest accomplishment and budget hullabaloo regard-

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THE BELIZE TIMES

ing the illusionary assistance to the poor. At the 2019, budget presentation, then PM, Barrow had raised his fist to the heavens, pumped up his chest, and patted himself on the back for the measly three (3) million dollars in allocation for the struggling poor. Each year, the UDP government spent more money on new vehicles than they spent on the entire food pantry program for Belize City.

3% of the budget went to poverty alleviation. A pro-poor government, seriously?

The United Democratic Party deceivingly portrayed their social programs as home-grown and a novel idea of theirs to fool the populace that they were truly pro-poor and had a heart for the poverty stricken many. During the woeful global financial crash in 2008-2009, developing nations sought to shoulder the burden of poverty affecting developing countries, including Belize. The spigot of charitable funding flooded nations engulfed by poverty and inequality with new types of welfare initiatives. Some 72 social programs were identified around the world, to help the elderly, the sick and down and out. These programs varied from subsidised pension to gas and food subsidies.

The allegations of the fleecing of

these noble initiatives has left an impression of a public sector that’s “gone totally schizoid: on the one hand, offering safety-net programs for the poor, and on the other, enabling large-scale theft from the very people it supposedly trying to help.” The UDP policymakers should have taken a keen interest to avoid filching from the poor. However, evidenced in the Auditor General Report, they became the biggest enablers in the thievery of the poor.

Minister of Natural Resources and Petroleum, Honourable Cordel Hyde fittingly characterised the worthless UDP, red regime as “midwives to POVERTY.” The disadvantage lot became a juicy target for the depraved UDPs making it a business of stealing from those at the bottom of the societal ladder. They rob them in ways that are systematic, impersonal, and almost impossible to trace back to the perpetrators. Nonetheless, the

Auditor General forensic audit has undressed the ‘sticky fingers’ scheme detailed in an audit report.

A pragmatic approach by Minister of Human Development, Families and Indigenous Peoples Affairs Dolores Balderamos Garcia, has occurred with the rebranding of one of the programs—Food Pantry to Grocery Bag in an attempt to get rid of the negative stigma of abuse and neglect. Additionally, the program is being reviewed.

The Honourable Minister is adamant that before we can do something for the poor, there are those things that we need to stop doing to them.

Unlike the fairy tale of the United Democratic Party that has ended badly, the chapter of the People’s United Party with PM Briceño at the helm has a happy ending. An ending where everybody wins!!

2013 FORD EXPLORER

An International Agency is selling a 2013 Ford Explorer in working condition Import Duties: Not applicable General Sales Tax: Payable by the buyer Vehicle can be viewed at #4792 Coney Drive, Belize City, by appointment only Please call 630-2641 All bids should be submitted by 10 December 2020, sealed and addressed to “Ford Explorer Bid” at P.O. Box 1834, Belize City The Vendor reserves the right to refuse any or all bids

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THE BELIZE TIMES

29 NOV

2020

Prime Minister Hon. John BriceĂąo On all the get-well messages(Nov 24) THANK YOU ALL from the bottom of my heart for your outpouring of prayers and well wishes. I want you all to know that thus far I am feeling fine and am working in quarantine until further notice from the medical experts.

While I am always doing my utmost to always wear a mask and physically distance from others, my job does require a lot of interaction with people and so I am glad that we were able to catch the infection in the early stages to prevent any further spread. I want to take this opportunity to implore everyone to please take all necessary precautions against this dangerous disease. We must protect each other by wearing our masks, physically distancing and self-quarantining if we have any suspicions or flu-like symptoms.

While many of us are doing the right thing, the sad truth is many of us are still not, and we are unwittingly spreading this virus to those we love. It is important to remember that PEOPLE are what move this virus, and WE THE PEOPLE can also STOP IT in its tracks.

Our medical and economic experts are hard at work finalizing our comprehensive country-wide Covid-19 Strategy which I believe will go a long way in combatting this pandemic and protecting our people, but we cannot afford to wait. We must ALL do our part to stop the spread.

29 NOV

2020

THE BELIZE TIMES

07 7

8 08 8 OUT

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Dear Editor, Our Commuters are still Stressing over the Tickets Fiasco left by the UDP I was at the bus terminal waiting for the bus. As I sat there minding my own business a person approached me and asked me in Spanish...”Wasn’t it in the news that they were going to sell tickets?”

I smirked.

Deep in 2020, the UDP wrote into an SI, one week before the elections, that forced in a ticket system that reflected the corrupt UDP-it served no one.

In fact, this ticket line is the ideal place for the spread of the same coronavirus they monumentally failed in containing. The UDP succeeded only in flying in the Corona with its own private protocol into the PGIA. Karma has yet to catch

THE BELIZE TIMES up with the UDP for that am sure.

The election loss was only their welcome into hades.

So the technologically savvy(joke) UDP imposed this: When the bus arrives at the terminal the conductor rushes to some makeshift un-sanitized booth to ‘sell’ tickets.

So instead of rushing to the bus, passengers rush, without any social distances prepared nor enforced, to purchase a ticket. The ticket does not have any seat number. Then when the bus leaves, the bus picks up anyone at will at any spot even just at the gates of the terminal.

So, my short answer to the man, “No.” In technology year 2020, we cannot pre-purchase our tickets not even manually.

My last letter to the editor voiced the hope that a new PUP government opens industries that would diminish the need to commute especially in rash conditions. Here I add...I am sure the PUP will upgrade the bus commute system in Belize.

Many are hopefully of improved conditions.

Daily Commuter Hopeful

Obituary Ms. Lenna Princilla Sealy

June 3, 1940 – November 19th, 2020 It is with profound sadness and loss that the People’s United Party announce the passing of one of our stalwart supporter and member of the Order of Distinguished Service (ODS) Ms Lenna Sealy better known as ‘Ms Birdie.’

On behalf of Party Leader and Prime Minister Hon. John Briceno, Deputy PM Hon. Cordel Hyde, Party Chairman Hon. Henry Usher, the PUP National Executive and the greater PUP family, we extend our deepest and sincerest condolences to the family. May Ms. Birdie Rest in Peace and Rise in Glory...

Sleep on Ms B

29 NOV

2020

Obituary

Ms. Marion Torres January 25, 1958 – November 21, 2020 It is with profound sadness that the People’s United Party announce the passing of one of our stalwart supporter Ms. Marion Torres, better known as ‘Mamita.’ On behalf of Prime Minister Hon. John Briceno, Deputy PM Hon. Cordel Hyde, the PUP National Executive and the greater PUP family, we extend our deepest and sincerest condolences to the family and councillor Ladrick “Bull” Shepherd. Rest in Peace and Rise in Glory Ms. Marion.

29 NOV

2020

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THE BELIZE TIMES

ARCELIA BRÍGIDA CARBALLO DE LEIVA

OCTOBER 8, 1946 – NOVEMBER 20, 2020

Excerpt of Eulogy written and Delivered by Dean Adrian G. Leiva November 21, 2020

“Mrs. Celi’s life was a life of service. She was actively involved in the credit union movement for twenty years from 1990 to 2000. She served as an officer in the Board of Directors from 1963 to 2000 with service being interrupted for a few years. She was president of the La Inmaculada Credit Union from 1994 to 2001, and from 1997 to 2000, she served as the fourth president of the Belize Credit Union League.

Her involvement as president of the League took her to numerous professional workshops in Barbados, St. Kitts, Jamaica, Trinidad & Tobago, Grand Cayman, Curacao, and the Bahamas. My mom also served as an Orange Walk Town councilor from 1988 to 1991. After she had recovered from a chronic illness in 2002, I roped her into becoming a member of the La Inmaculada Choral Group, and at the same time, she became a member of the Helpage organization here in town. Mr. Beliz, her brother, shares that when he was president of Helpage in the early 90’s, my mom was the de facto secretary as Helpage had difficulty getting a consistent and active secretary. When my mom retired, she joined officially and she eventually became the president until the time of her passing. Over the past five years, she has been the regional representative on the Helpage National Board representing both the Orange Walk and Corozal Districts. She has travelled all over the country attending meetings.

My mom was a shining light.

Did you know that she became the first secretary of the Belize Sugar Industries Ltd. in 1964?

Did you know that on the year that she completed her primary school studies, she was the only student from La Inmaculada School that year to receive a Government scholarship to attend high school and that, since she was a female, she became the first female from the Orange Walk District to receive that scholarship? Did you know that in 2002, my mom received an award of merit from the Caribbean Confederation of Credit Unions, that St. Catherine Academy bestowed her with the outstanding alumna award in 2008, and that the Orange Walk Town Council presented her with the medal of patriotic service in 2014? At SCA, my mom immersed herself in her studies, and this experience made all the difference in her life. My mother spoke about SCA with great pride, and the Mercy values exude from her very naturally. She has inculcated these values in her children and all organizations that she has worked with. My mom was not born, nor did she marry, into money, but the service that she has given to her community is beyond monetary value. Today, mom, you receive the highest honor. You receive what I call the Medal of the Beatific Vision, that golden moment when you meet face to face with our Lord.

My mom touched the lives of many.

She once wrote this personal statement: ‘I owe what I am today to that era when schools were more strongly focused on basic human values. I believe that a society is strong when it upholds a sound family structure, and so I try to contribute to the well-being of my own family. I believe that a society is noble when citizens are community-spirited, and so I try to promote volunteerism by being active in my own community.

And I believe that a family prospers when individuals do positive things to the best of their ability and without expecting material compensation. At the end of the day, I get satisfaction from knowing that I have done my very best in what I have set out to do.‘ She was formidable.”

PR# 001

PRESS RELEASE Cabinet Brief Belmopan. November 25, 2020. 6:00 p.m.

The Cabinet, chaired by the Prime Minister Hon. John Briceño met in regular session on November 24th, 2020.

The Cabinet received a full report from the Hon. Michel Chebat, Minister of Health and Wellness, regarding the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic in Belize. Cabinet considered the report, noted the dire effects of the pandemic, the fact that there is no plan in place to address the crisis, and approved the new measures to be implemented with a view to arresting the spread of the virus.

The Ministry of Health will hold a press conference on Thursday, November 26th, to update the public on the crisis arising from the COVID-19 outbreak. The Minister will lay out the Government’s plan to address the COVID-19 pandemic and announce new measures including an increase in the number of testing centers to increase testing and an aggressive awareness campaign.

The Hon. Orlando Habet, Minister of Sustainable Development, Climate Change and Disaster Risk Management, briefed the Cabinet on the National Emergency Management Organization’s preliminary report on the impact of the rains associated with Hurricanes ETA and IOTA. The preliminary estimate of loss exceeds BZ$150 million countrywide. This includes loss to agriculture, housing and infrastructure.

To alleviate the needs of persons affected by the flooding situation, Cabinet approved the request for funding by the Ministry of Sustainable Development, Climate Change, and Disaster Risk Management, for food assessment for 5,000 Belizeans.

At the request of the Hon. Julius Espat, Minister of Infrastructure Development and Housing, the Cabinet approved initial funding to begin road works especially on the major roads and highways severely impacted by the recent rains and floods. The Cabinet will revisit this matter at its next regular meeting.

Following the presentation at last week’s meeting on the State of Public Finances and the Economy presented by Mr. Joseph Waight, Financial Secretary; Ambassador Joy Grant, Governor of the Central Bank; and Mr. Kareem Michaels, Deputy Governor of the Central Bank, Cabinet received a further brief on the state of the economy and Government finances. Cabinet agreed to present a new budget for the remainder of the financial year at its first working session of the House of Representatives in early December.

The Prime Minister Hon. John Briceño informed Cabinet that Ambassador Joy Grant, Governor of the Central Bank of Belize, had informed him that at a meeting held on November 18th, 2020, that the Central Bank granted the approval of the merger between the Belize Bank Limited with the Bank of Nova Scotia Limited. The Cabinet noted that under the Domestic Banks and Financial Institutions Act this approval was granted by the Central Bank of Belize and not the Minister of Finance. The Cabinet also decided that it would move promptly to appoint a new Board for the Central Bank of Belize.

Finally, the Cabinet considered a letter from the Public Service Union (PSU) regarding the investigation into the “fire sale” of Government’s assets by the previous administration. The Cabinet agreed to meet with the PSU to look into setting up a committee to further investigate this matter.

Ends

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29 NOV

THE BELIZE TIMES Remarks for 16 Days of Activism

Hon. Dolores Balderamos-Garcia Ministry of Human Development, Families and Indigenous Affairs

Greetings Everyone, 16 Days of Activism against Gender-based Violence has for many years served as a platform for national governments and civil society organizations around the world to band together in one voice calling out the scourge of gender-based violence and the negative impacts it has on a country. It also serves to re-energize and galvanize national efforts as we continue to combat gender-based violence, which disproportionately affects women and girls. Cases continue to occur in both private and public spaces. Gender-based violence too often is accepted as a normal behaviour and the culture of discrimination continues to occur without being called what it is, a crime. The need to highlight this issue as a violation of the human rights of those experiencing it must never cease.

While we recognize that this is a global problem, we need to take action and create public awareness about what needs to change to prevent it from happening at the local level, and even more importantly at the most basic unit of society, the family, within our Ministry. Thus, the theme this year, #Orange Belize: Respond, Prevent, Collect and Empower seeks to shine the spotlight on the multiple levels at which work needs to happen. From duty bearer such as our own Ministry, the Police, the Health Ministry, even the Judiciary, we all must conscientiously and systematically continue to respond in an effective and efficient manner.

If we do not, lives will be lost, as we have seen in the past years. We must continue to implement prevention programs that break down attitudes and values, which perpetuate, rationalise and normalise that violence, and deny the right to safety for women and girls and other vulnerable populations.

Through the national coor-

dinating entity, the Women’s Commission, our Ministry continues to strengthen collaborative efforts which bring together government, civil society and the private sector. While the pandemic of violence against women is not new, COVID-19 has exacerbated the violence in many homes where we have seen a rise in cases making collaborative partnership even more important. It is in this spirit that government continues to work hand in hand with its partners and has launched multiple efforts to document

cases where service provision is denied or given inadequately.

A second hotline to enhance support to persons coming forward to make reports is now available to provide free access to SMART customers; and additional safe spaces in districts have been activated through the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and the Engender project. In addition, a multi-language public awareness campaign on the radio and television has been facili-

2020

tated through UNFPA and the Spotlight Project to design infographics with key messages not only in English but also Spanish, Garifuna, Mopan, Kekchi and Yucatec Maya.

These will be distributed in all the districts, especially rural areas with support from the District Gender-based Violence Committees and Community Policing Unit.

And so, as we begin this year’s observance of the 16 Days of Activism, while we reaffirm government efforts in combating gender-based violence as this scourge, we also remind everyone that government cannot do it alone. Every single Belizean must also play a role.

Let me ask us all please let us reduce and stamp out gender-based violence.

I thank you.

PUBLIC AUCTION SALE *Third Publication*

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

At Parcel 332 San Jose Palmar Village, Orange Walk District on Wednesday 9th December 2020 at 10:00am SCHEDULE

ALL THAT piece or parcel of land comprising 1166.54 square yards being Parcel 332, Block 4 in the San Jose Palmar Registration Section situate in San Jose Palmar Village, Orange Walk District easily accessible to the highway and Orange Walk Town ALTOGETHER containing two separate apartment building units, shed and three car covered garage in a clean, filled and fully fenced yard the freehold property of LUIS ALONSO SALAZAR DATED this 25th day of November 2020

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

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NUESTRO PACTO SOLEMNE CON EL PUEBLO DE BELIZE NOSOTROS, LOS TREINTA Y UN CANDIDATOS DEL PARTIDO UNIDO DEL PUEBLO, INDIVIDUAL Y COLECTIVAMENTE DE FORMA INCONDICIONAL Y DE BUENA FE NOS COMPROMETEMOS A: 1. Trabajar incansablemente para alcanzar los objetivos establecidos en el #PLANBELIZE Manifiesto del Partido Unido Del Pueblo 2. Sobre todo, permanecer fiel al lema del PUP – Servir al pueblo – y no utilizar nuestras oficinas para beneficio personal 3. En todo momento defender fielmente la Constitución y las Leyes de Belize 4. Apoyar sin reservas los planes y políticas de un gobierno PUP que promuevan la justicia social, económica y ambiental 5. A velar porque todos los trabajadores reciban un salario justo por su trabajo e implementar un salario mínimo y digno de $5 por hora 6. Trabajar para eliminar los privilegios económicos y sociales y la disparidad entre los beliceños y proteger el derecho de todos a la vida, la libertad, el acceso a una educación asequible, la atención sanitaria universal, la tierra y la vivienda y el derecho a vivir en comunidades pacíficas 7. Proteger la identidad, la dignidad y los valores sociales y culturales de los beliceños, incluidos los pueblos indígenas 8. Promover activamente el desarrollo sostenible en Belize y proteger nuestro medio ambiente natural y construido 9. Insistir en una gobernanza buena y transparente y responsabilizar a quienes traicionan el bien público 10. Defender la integridad territorial de Belize y proteger el interés de Belize en los foros internacionales.

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18 JAN

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Government Ministries MOVE

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ON THE

Hon. Orlando Habet, Minister of Sustainable Development, Climate Change & Disaster Risk Management Visiting the CZMI Office, Met Office and Fire Department. Covering more and more ground every day for the benefit of Belize.

Hon. Kareem Musa, Minister of Home Affairs “No one is born as a criminal, we will work closely & better with our communities & people through effective community base policing”.

Hon. John Briceño, Prime Minister, Minister of Finance, Economic Development & Investment Bishop Larry Nicasio visited the Prime Minister at his office in Belize City to offer blessings, and together they prayed for the nation.

Hon. Michel Chebat, Minister of Health & Wellness With management staff of our health facilities across the country.

Hon. Francis Fonseca, Minister of Education, Culture, Science & Technology Visiting with the staff of the MOE at the North Front Street office in his first courtesy visit!

Minister Hon. Florencio Marin, Jr. and MoS Hon. Oscar Mira, National Defence & Border Security “uniendo experiencia, talento e ideas para cumplir con éxito las obligaciones y responsabilidades encomendado por el Primer Ministro John Briceño.” ”Ready to make a difference! …we will put our ideas and expertise together… energized to get the ball moving!”

Hon. Kevin Bernard, Minister of Youth, Sports & E-Governance Along with his advisory team making an appearance at the “Gateway Youth Center “ in Belize City.

Hon. Jose Mai, Minister of Agriculture, Food Security and Enterprise Here along with Prime Minister Briceño, assessing the damage caused by the devastating storms Etta and Iota.

Hon. Oscar Requena, Minister of Rural Transformation, Community Development, Labour & Local Government Visiting with the staff at the Belmopan Head Office.

Here with the Minister of State, Hon. Ramiro Ramirez as they conducted a first courtesy visit.

EVERYBODY FI WIN!

planBelize

TODOS GANAMOS!

14 Belize City Council

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Youth Shadow Council Today we acknowledge and celebrate our Youth Shadow Council for their completion of the Communications and Media Training Course provided by PRfect Green Belize.

The 5 week course featured numerous educational material in key areas such as: The essentials of Communications, Community Consultations and Effective Public Speaking. By completing these modules each youth member has been able to successfully prepare and deliver a speech based on their respective portfolios.

We give a special thanks to Mrs. Daedra Isaacs-Haylock for hosting and mediating the sessions and we proudly commend our Shadow Council Members for their dedication to their future as political and social leaders of our city.

Corozal Town Council Flood Relief According to the Meteorological Office, the Accumulated Rainfall up to 6:30pm was 120.6mm or 4.8 inches in Corozal District, the highest compared to other areas of the country by November 19.

Mayor Rigo Vellos & CTC Machinery on the move! Flood alleviation efforts continued this morning in the Rainbow Town area to assist residents affected by recent several days of rain.

Work was also placed to assist residents affected by the floods in Joseito Layout., G Street and Second St. North.

Phase 2 of the Corozal Town Council’s flood alleviation efforts today saw machinery deployed once more to the large drains that start in the Chula Vista area, which run through the Rodney Moguel Area and onto the Rainbow Town Area. Resources were secured to ensure access to equipment to assist with ensuring drains are of proper depth in order for the flood water to run downstream and onto

the lower drains that empty out onto the Corozal Bay. Mayor Rigo Vellos has remained on the ground and on hand throughout today’s efforts.

Phase 3 of today’s marathon Flood Alleviation efforts focused on Hermelinda Layout which has seen

flooding affecting homes following this week’s heavy rains. CTC collaborated with Corozal Bay Area Representative Hon. David Dido Vega to: 1. Pump out over 7,000 gallons of water from the flooded areas 2. Increase the depth of the main

drain along Olga Marin Drive to allow the flood waters to run off towards connecting drains On behalf of the Council, Mayor Rigo Vellos expresses gratitude to Hon. Vega for his support and for the many ways he has assisted during the recent floods.

The Council also extends its appreciation to the residents who assisted today and Belize Water Services for their support throughout the emergency.

Tomorrow the work will continue.

Corozal Town Councils’ efforts to alleviate flooding in the Chula Vista area and nearby Rodney Moguel area continued. Mayor Rigo Vellos continued to deploy machinery to assist with drain clearing to ensure that they have proper depths in case the rains continue. Yesterday, Mayor Vellos and Councillors worked late hours of the night to assist residents in flood conditions. The Council will continue to work through the weekend and monitor conditions as a tropical wave approaches the country.

Orange Walk Town Council “Re-imagining a better future for every child” The Acting Mayor Ian Cal and the Orange Walk Town Council wished all children a Happy Children’s day on November 20.

Flooding With the amount of rain coming down countrywide we experienced

flooding in different areas of OW Town also.

OWTC workers along with PM Central assessment team were out in different areas with machinery to ensure that water flows out of these areas quickly. The rains will continue so I ask that anyone who lives in low lying areas to please evacuate if necessary. An assessment today showed that mostly yards were flooded but if the rains continue it can rise in flood prone areas. The shelter has also been open at Trail Farm School so if anyone has the need to evacuate we are willing to assist./// Incentives Program for the Sanitation Department For the past weeks, the Orange Walk Town Council has engaged in an incentives program for the Sanitation Department. All workers who come to work daily on time and with no issue get a CASH reward. All other workers of the Operations Department get a chance to win cash or items. At the Orange Walk Town Council, we value our employees!

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Everybody Fi Win Speech by Minister of State Gilroy Usher, Sr. to the Directors of the Ministry of Human Development, Families, and Indigenous Affairs

A pleasant good morning to everyone: Hon. Dolores Balderamos Garcia – Minister of Human Development.

Families, and Indigenous Affairs Miss Starla Bradley – Director.

Community Rehabilitation Department Miss Ana Williams – Director, Women’s Department Miss Lliani Arthurs – Director, Human Services Department Nellie Ellis & Lionel Hernandez – Finance Officer I & II Mark Antrobus – Social Planner Miss Sylvia Usher – Human Resources and other project management Other invited persons.

I believe that Minister Dolores Balderamos and myself, as Minister of State, have been given a very important duty in what, in these challenging

times, compounded by Covid-19 can only be described as one of the most essential Government Ministries of the day. That is the Ministry of Human Development.

It is my personal belief that a great measure of a country’s success is its response to the well-being of its most vulnerable persons. In our case the classification of vulnerable persons is

extensive. We bear the responsibility to attend to the needs of Indigenous Affairs, families with particular focus on women, children, at risk youth, persons living with HIV, differently abled persons. and the list goes on.

While the overview of the vast responsibility of this Ministry was initially daunting to me as this is my first time being elected to office, further research into the workings of the Ministry gave my mind much ease. I am confident that Minister Balderamos and I, in collaboration with all of you, who play such a vital role in working towards the best outcomes in the Ministry of Human Development, will be able to establish an ideal working relationship with the best interest of those we serve at heart.

In keeping with this administration’s moto of ‘Everybody fi win’, I believe that Minister Balderamos and I are stepping into our duties with the commitment to directing all resources available to us in an effective and efficient manner for the betterment of all Belizeans. For this reason I believe that programs geared towards addressing the many food and financial needs of the most vulnerable must be assessed to ensure that resources are disbursed in the most equitable manner to the households and persons who are most in need and in whose situation they will have the greatest social impact.

Our society is plagued by the many ills, most if not all stemming from the cycle of poverty, illiteracy, crime, and most recently highlighted as a focus of concern, mental health. I admire the tremendous work being done by the Community rehabilitation Department and can appreciate as an educator the commitment that has to go into addressing the issues plaguing our vulnerable communities in particular our youth.

It is my hope that during my time here I will be able to learn more about the operations of the various departments and also utilize my experience as an educator for over 30 years, as well as my experience working with persons from vulnerable sections of our society, to make meaningful change in the Ministry of Human Development.

I do not think that any organization is perfect. It is for this reason that I am humbled to be here and open to learning, as well as I am sure, Minister Balderamos is, and eager to address your concerns as the persons who have been at the helm of the in workings of The Ministry of Human Development. I am hopeful you too will be open to addressing any shortfalls encountered so far ahead on, with an intention to improve in areas that require improvement and build upon areas where we are already strong.

To sum up I would like to leave you with a quote by Ghandi that I think encompasses the work we hope to do here: “The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.”

It is my hope that in working together for the betterment of all Belizeans, we will all in the end have a fulfilling experience.

Thank You

Ministry of Agriculture, Food Security & Enterprise Press Release On Thursday 19th of November 2020, the Prime Minister Rt. Hon. John Briceno, and Hon. Jose Abelardo Mai, Minister of Agriculture, Food Security and Enterprise visited Maypen in the Belize District to get a firsthand look at a situation involving cattle rescue due to flooding.

Maypen is a settlement that lies off the Phillip Goldson Highway about 27 miles outside Belize City. Residents of the area are involved in cattle ranching, but with the recent rains and the rising of the Belize River, the cattle in the area have become stranded and are in danger of drowning. Minister Mai was apprised of this situation during one of the meetings on his familiarization tour and quick action on his part led to collaboration with the Belize Livestock Producer’s Association (BLPA), Banana Bank Lodge, Caribbean Tyres and Mennonite ranchers from Blue Creek and Shipyard, who brought in boats and trailers to help rescue the stranded animals. The Prime Minister and Minister Mai went to the area to speak to the ranchers and get a first hand look at the rescue efforts; of the 300 or so head of cattle stranded, 60 have already been rescued as the efforts continue. PM Briceño and Minister Mai praised the efforts of all involved, especially the BLPA and ranchers from Blue Creek and Shipyard, who came from afar and are putting in an all out effort in the rescue.

PM Briceño and Minister Mai, accompanied by Hon. Marconi Leal, also visited Crooked Tree to get a look at the flooding that has devastated that village. The causeway is under water, and several families in the village have had to be evacuated to shelters. The PM Briceño toured the village and spoke to affected residents.

ENDS

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Prime Minister Briceño and Minister Mai take action to rescue cattle in Maypen Minister Jose Mai Post “The excess rainfall brought about by Iota has caused flooding in communities in the River Valley.

In less than 12 hours, our Mennonite cattle farmers from Blue Creek and Ship Yard responded to the SOS call from cattle farmers in Maypen.

300 cattle were in danger of drowning due to the food and needed to be rescued.

At 6 am on the 19 November, 35 persons, 6 trailers, 3 boats , tractors, horses and cowboys descended on the banks of the Belize Old River.

Later on neighbors and other joined the rescue. Banana Bank personnel joined the operation while Caribbean Tires donated food to the many persons in the ground. By the end of the day more trailers and tractors and personnel appeared to assist.

BLPA staff were present to document the movement of cattle.

At the end of the day, 50 head of cattle were transported to safety

at the Yo Creek Agricultural Sub- Station and additional 20 were secured.

Another 100 animals are going to be rescued today 20 Nov 2020.

Prime Minister John Briceño and the Minister of Agriculture toured the area and had extensive discussion with the farmers.

We thank the farmers of Blue Creek and Shipyard and all those who are assisting in the rescuing effort. We thank Banana Bank personnel and Caribbean Tires for providing food for the many people.”

2020

SAN PEDRO HIGH SCHOOL

ANCHOR IN SUCCESS Vacancies exist for the following permanent posts at San Pedro High School for the academic school year 2020-2021: •

Business Studies

•

Mathematics

Applicants must have a minimum of a first degree in the subject area to be taught.

Online teaching experience using Microsoft Teams will be an asset.

Applicants must also have excellent communication, interpersonal skills and be willing to work with students.

Applications should be submitted in writing along with a resume, copies of certificates, transcript, letters of recommendation and teacher’s license (must).

Salary will be in accordance with Government’s pay scale, which is based on qualifications.

Applications must be addressed to:

Principal P.O. Box 23 San Pedro High School San Pedro Town A.C.

Deadline for Applications: December 8th, 2020.

BELIZE NATIONAL PRAYER Almighty and Eternal God, who through Jesus Christ has revealed Your Glory to all nations, please protect and preserve Belize, our beloved country.

God of might, wisdom and justice, please assist our Belizean government and people with your Holy Spirit of counsel and fortitude.

Let your light of Your divine wisdom direct their plans and endeavours so that with Your help we may attain our just objectives. With Your guidance, may all our endeavours tend to peace, social justice, liberty, national happiness, the increase of industry, sobriety and useful knowledge.

We pray, O God of Mercy, for all of us that we may be blessed in the knowledge and sanctified in the observance of Your most holy law, that we may be preserved in union and in peace which the world itself cannot give. And, after enjoying the blessings of this life, please admit us, dear Lord, to that eternal reward that You have prepared for those who love You. Amen

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Representatives at Work Excerpts of FB Posts and other tivo.

Permítanme recordarles que adhieran a los procedimientos sanitarios adecuados: lávese las manos, use su máscara, mantenga la distancia social y limite sus salidas a lo necesario.

Les pido también sus continuas oraciones por nuestro Primer Ministro, el Honorable Johnny Briceño, y todos los afectados por este virus. ¡Gracias y que Dios los bendiga a todos!

Jorge ‘Milin’ Espat Hon. Alex Balona, Cayo Central

Hon. Jorge “Milin’ Espat, “Thank you Hon. Alex Balona, Area Representative for Cayo Central for giving assistance to the people of Calla Creek. Many families have been affected by the floods and COVID-19 has left a devastating economic impact.

But, we are united in the efforts to bring much needed assistance and to alleviate the current depressing situation. Our work will continue!”

Orange Walk Central, PM Hon. John Briceño

The road to San Estevan is one that the representative, Prime Minister Briceño, wants to fix and upgrade. With the recent Storms, Eta and Iota, which poured down just after the General Elections, the road screamed of 12 plus years of neglect. Contracts were given out. Imer Hernandez, the private citizen that rivalled the very ministers for his incompetence and unethical signing of obscene contracts, was again involved in this travesty against the people who live just east of Orange Walk Town proper.

There is no time for excess celebration. The people need the road to travel to San Estevan, Progresso, Chunox, Little Belize, Sarteneja, Muffles Junior College and many other homes and farms.

Private Citizen and businessman, Beto Blanco, along with the PM and the Public Works have put action to the need. This portion of the road to San Estevan is being worked on as temporary alleviation. There are plans for the complete paving of this road. Mr. Blanco provided equipment and personal assistance. Belizeans working to make San Estevan and other villages have smoother access.

Mike Espat, Toledo East

Hon. Michael Espat is feeling well and is grateful for all the prayers and concerns. He thanks all who calls, text, the doctors those who post a little comment to get well soon. #everybodyfiwin

Hon. Jose Mai, Orange Walk South

Jorge ‘Milin’ Espat, Cayo West

Good morning my dear Cayo West constituents: I thank you for your continued prayers and get well wishes. It’s been a few challenging days, but with God and family, I have been able to get stronger.

Today, I am still in the hospital, but the prognosis is good! I am anxiously awaiting for the day that I can go back to serving you all. Be sure that I will work for you and with you to make our Cayo West a more thriving and productive one.

Let me remind you to adhere to proper sanitary procedures: wash your hands, wear your mask, maintain social distance, and limit your outings to what is necessary.

I ask also for your continued prayers for our Prime Minister, Honorable Johnny Briceño, and all those affected by this virus. Thank you, and God bless you all!

-----------------------------------------------------Buenos dias mis queridos residentes de Cayo Oeste: Les agradezco sus oraciones y buenos deseos. Han sido unos días difíciles, pero con la ayuda de Dios y la familia, sigo mejorando.

Hoy sigo en el hospital, ¡pero el pronóstico es bueno! Espero ansiosamente el día en que pueda volver a servirles a todos. Asegúrense de que trabajaré para ustedes y con ustedes para hacer de Cayo West un lugar más próspero y produc-

Hon. David Vega, Corozal Bay

Thanks to these people who brought it strange machines to help in rescuing the cattle!!

Only a farmer understands the suffering of another farmer!!

The people are now suffering the wrath of non-existent infrastructure. Monies that were spent on infrastructure ended in the pockets of a few. Roundabouts seen everywhere were obviously overpriced. Poorly done roads were definitely criminal. Check out Imer’s bank account.

The ground work continued today in sections of Olga Marin Drive and Hall’s Layout.

Grateful for a very hardworking team. We have assisted in removing garbage and tree debris clogging the drains.

Let’s remain safe but kind to one another as mother nature puts us to test.

The work ahead is just beginning! Together we shall

move forward!/// Let’s congratulate Dr. Deysi Mendez on her appointment as CEO in the Ministry of Health & Wellness. Certain that alongside Hon. Minister Micho Chebat, our health system will begin seeing strategic development and a way forward, especially in these times of the Covid-19 Pandemic.

Dr. Deysi played a key role in our campaign journey. Her organizational skills Continued on page 18

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Continued from page 17 and knowledge allowed us to have a well-structured office and technical team.

One of our very own Corozal residents will now be part in restructuring our health sector and ensuring the Plan Belize Health Policy is properly implemented.

There is no doubt that Dr. Deysi Mendez will be an asset to our Country, especially as she carries with her a broad area of knowledge and studies in the field of Epidemiology.

Best wishes…

Hon. Michel Chebat, Cayo North

Hon. Chebat hits the road running. The general public is advised that a portion of the road leading from Bullet Tree to Santa Familia has been washed away.

Kindly proceed with caution.

Ministry of infrastructure & Housing personnel have assessed the damage and repairs will commence shortly.

Hon. Rodwell Ferguson, Stann Creek West The outbreak of the Corona Virus has now escalated in the Stann Creek especially in the southern half. It’s important to practice social distancing. I have navigated through the area and came across people who are positive by the grace of God I remain negative. My people the cure is right in your back yard. I build a a resistance by maintaining a mixture of vervine, ginger, yellow ginger scientifically know as turmeric, garlic, papaya leaf and onion all boil together and drink as hot as you possible can, 2 table spoon morning and evening. I have proven over and over this works. On the Government side we meet such a bad economy the system is over swamped take care of your self.

Staggering numbers on November 24 for this district: Stann Creek - 46 (5 Dangriga, 7 Independence, 4 Santa Rosa, 3 Red Bank, 3 San Pablo, 3 Maya Mopan, 1 San Isidro, 1 Thatch Caye, 1 Mayan King, 1 South Stann Creek, 9 from Bella Vista TOL, 1 from Trio TOL, 1 from Bladden TOL, 1 from Santa Cruz TOL, 1 from Punta Gorda TOL, 1 from Progresso CZ, 1 from BZ City, 1 from Santa Elena CY, 1 from Benque Viejo CY) Hon. Louis Zabaneh, Dangriga

Thank you so much Doc.

Hon. Oscar Mira, Belmopan

2020

I want to congratulate three members of Team Mira who worked so hard to get me elected in Belmopan.

The day I announced my candidacy in Belmopan, General (Ret.) Tapia was by my side. Tanya Santos has also been an integral part of our Team from the very beginning as well. Valentino Shal worked behind the scenes on our campaign strategy and those meetings in his office charted the way forward! His work on our Social Media platform was incredible! His huge banner with the word MIRA on his housetop shouted to the world that we were on the right track!

Today this Trio were confirmed as CEO’s in this administration and I am proud at their achievements and humbled that they believed in me. I am proud to say that they were part of the best team, Team Mira!

The country of Belize has gained the expertise of three of our best!

Congratulations! Well done! #prosperityandsecurityforall Hon. Henry Usher, Fort George

Hon. Henry Charles Usher and the Fort George Executive would like to extend our deepest condolences to Mrs. Lily Bowman and her family on the untimely passing of her brother, Mr. Jorge Julian Castillo.

Mr Castillo showed lifelong dedication throughout his life, in both the private sector, as a chartered accountant, and the public sector, climbing the ranks of the Belize Scouts Program, becoming the Chief Scout, and thereafter Chairman Emeritus of the Belize Scout’s Foundation.

Our thoughts, prayers, and heartfelt condolences go out to them during this time of grief.

Hon. Ramon ‘Monchi’ Cervantes, Orange Walk North Minister Cervantes with boots on the ground in Trial Farm. Committed to the people.

Quick response from your area rep. From long sleeves to rubber boots.

People have been thirty for real leadership from normal people, people that truly care. The ills of the past will heal but slowly. Everyone is hurt. The scepticism is at an all-time high.

PUP and Monchi are for real. Be patient and offer your support. When the going gets toughthe tough gets going.

Hon. Cervantes visiting residents in flood hit areas of OW North. Assessing present situation and preparing for further action when necessary.

Para todos... no para los Pocos.

Hon. Kevin Bernard, Orange Walk East

The Hon. Kevin Bernard was in the Village of Santa Martha, where approximately 25 families have been affected by the heavy rainfall. The affected families sought refuge in a nearby hurricane shelter.

Food packages along with sanitation supplies have been distributed with the assistance of the BDF, NEMO & the village council.

You belong to the Dangriga Constituency, no doubt.

The work never stops, it’s just the beginning and with all the negativity a lot more work still will be getting done. *God bless* *Together We Change* Hon. Julius Espat, Cayo South

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Hon. Marconi Leal, Belize Rural North

Supporter: Here taking this time to thank Mr. Banner and his team for the second donation from yesterday to our young bank people, which was one of the areas affected by the flooded cause by ETA. During this time of need, the outpouring of help is needed from every Belizean.

Eta not Iota can mess with Belizean reliance. The PUP will show even more of this to the people in the upcoming days, weeks, and years. We will all work for us all.

Hon. Marconi Leal working along with the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community in assisting some of the flood victims in Crooked Tree Village!

The work continues as more villages in BRN are affected by the flooding! Fellow People stay safe, be calm, you are not forgotten!

David Castillo, Corozal North

“Reimagining a better future for every child” World Children’s Day is observed by Oscar Mira and many that care for the future of those being celebrated.

Throughout this journey, my belief that we need to prepare our children to be the leaders of tomorrow, has never wavered. Education for our children will give them opportunities! Children need space to play, to grow, to be safe.

Happy Children’s Day to the children of Belmopan firstly and to all the children in our beautiful Belize and the whole world! #childrenarethefuture | #prosperityandsecurityforall | #thepeoplessoldier///

The village of San Pedro PUP committee at work clearing up all drains in San Pedro village, Corozal to alleviate flooding during the extensive rainfall.

David Castillo was in Chula Vista area during the flooding supporting the Mayor Vellos and touching

base with residents in the area.

David Castillo will continue working with the people of Corozal North.

Ed. Note: Please be mindful that these are excerpts. For other pictures, comment, releases, and posts of our PUP leaders visit, LIKE and FOLLOW their FB profiles and pages. Also be a fan of the Whip Show at 7:15 on Vibes FBLive, Cable, and Radio.

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THINK ABOUT IT WILL BARROW BE ARRESTED The new Cabinet of the new government met on Tuesday 24th November. On Wednesday, the nation was informed by way of a public press release of the main issues decided at the cabinet meeting.

Covid, quite rightly was a big part of Cabinet’s decision following “full report” from the new Health Minister Michel Chebat.

The situation is dread, to put it mildly, over a hundred and thirty Belizeans are dead.The release said Cabinet “noted the dire effects of the pandemic, the fact that there is no plan in place to address the crisis, and approved the new measures to be implanted with a view of arresting the spread of the virus.”

Minister Chebat had a press conference on 26th November to update the public.

The shocking import of this information will take some time to sink in among our people. The government of Dean Barrow “had no plan in place to address the (covid) crisis.”

This is unbelievable.This is bordering on criminality. It is sinful. Press conferences, Statutory Instrument, curfew, massive police arrests for not wearing face masks, forty one thousand persons turned down who applied for a little one hundred dollars help. But no structured plan in place to fight the enemy Covid.

The death rate at KHMH is soaring. There is no resources to conduct major testing. Even the limited samples taken cannot all be tested in a few days, backlogs are piling up. By the time a person is given a test result of positive, it is because he or she is on the road to death.

Most Belizeans are wearing facemasks. But they are not being extremely careful about touching doors, door knobs and many objects which are transmitting the virus. A massive public education campaign has to get under way immediately.

Fighting Covid also requires finance. The government is broke, Dean Barrow made sure of that.

And our world doesn’t wait on us. The flare up of gun violence this week was another reminder of how little Barrow did to fight crime and the root causes of crime. Even though he had millions and billions of dollars which he squandered with arrogance and disdain unmatched. Now Belizeans are in crisis, a Covid crisis, an economic crisis and a social meltdown crisis.

Cabinet also agreed to meet with the Public Service Union, which recently publicly condemned the “fire sale” of government vehicles, furniture’s and other public assets to former Ministers. It should be noted that the Public Service Union became aware of this criminal activity from September, and said nothing to us the people. We also note that in their public condemnation release, they fingered the Financial Secretary and the public officer in charge of assets, quite rightly.

It is our view that the main responsible was the Minister of Finance who was also Prime Minister.

Our system of government, though undermined, sabotaged, crippled and emasculated, is still the lawful system, as such no Financial Secretary, no assets officer has any authority to discard public vehicles etc. for a pittance. There are laws and rules governing these matters. And the Minister of Finance must approve. Over a certain value, the National Assembly must approve.

If any official violated our laws which exist to protect against abuse, they must be punished. And this applies especially to Mr. Dean Barrow, who for twelve years was Mr. Above-The-Law. Mr. Barrow has done many wrong things, some evil, some criminal, to the people and the country of Belize. He presided over the most corrupt government this nation has seen. Millions of dollars have been stolen under his watch. All his close family members are millionaires. His Ministers were like hogs feeding at the public trough. The bullshit about “for God’s sake, stop it” and Lands Ministry was a “hot bed of corruption” is not acceptable. It was his job to stop the theft and corruption and to deal with the hot bed of corruption. He did nothing.

The massive turn out of over eighty odd percent of voters is not to be taken lightly. It was a humongous rejection of Dean Barrow and everything he and his Ministers did to this country. Enough was enough. The people have spoken.

There is enough evidence already available, against the C.E.O. and the former Minister of Works.

Why has the DPP and the Police Commissioner not ordered their arrest? Plus TV has the documents, the video tape evidence and witnesses.

Dean Barrow and his Ministers cannot be allowed to get away with their criminal behaviour.

Fighting corruption is serious business. It is what the Belize people by their thousands voted for in the historic change on 11th November.

NEW PERMANENT SECRETARIES The list of new Permanent Secretaries has been released. They are called Chief Executive Officers.There are 16, one for each Ministry. None have experience in the public service.This has its upside and downside. It will present a challenge to the new government, of whom, many Ministers are themselves new to their bureaucracies.

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In 1993, Manuel Esquivel was re-elected for a second term. He must have appreciated the need for his Ministers and permanent secretaries to have a better understanding of the vast public service machinery and its all-important role as the employees who carry out cabinet’s policies and the country laws.

The permanent secretary in the Ministry of the Public Service was Dickie Bradley and cabinet secretary was Henry Gordon. Esquivel authorized a conference type gathering attended by some of his Ministers alongside their PSs. The University of the West Indies has a certificate in Public Administration course, also a bachelor’s degree and a master degree in Public Administration. The public service is crucial to both develop and underdeveloped nations.

The Constitution provides for only two types of Public officers. Section 105 which authorize the Public Service commission to promote, transfer and fire 95 percent of the public service. And section 107 which authorizes the Prime Minister to select CEOs, ambassadors and certain key personnel like Police Commissioner and BDF commander.

MINISTER HENRY CHARLES Henry Charles Usher is the Minister of the Public Service AND Constitutional and Political reform.

This is a massive burden and responsibility on the young energetic minister.

The Public Service is too fat, it needs a liposuction, to bring it back in shape and make it fighting ready to deliver for the people of Belize. It is the Public Service which makes a government efficient and effective. They can be part of the incompetence and corruption of a government (as they did the last 12 years) or they can be part of change and improvement.

The last government used and abused the public service. Look where it has gotten us.The Ministry of Works allowed their Minister to hijack heavy equipment, trucks, pickups, even personnel to work on his massive farm for years. And no one said a word.

Of signal importance is the constitutional and political reform portfolio under Henry Charles. This is where the future of Belize lies. We are either going to fix our country and put new foundations and improve the existing ones, or, we are forever to be tossed around at sea sinking and hopelessly bailing out water and plugging leaks.

Within one hundred days of being elected Prime Minister, Said Musa appointed a Political Reform Commission made up of a wide cross section of society. It was a massive undertaking completed in one year, with public consultations and resulted in 103 recommendations, of which 63 were accepted by cabinet.

The world has changed since 1998, Belize has learnt some bitter lessons from the 12 years of a disgraceful government and a compliant Public Service with failed and subverted institution and flunky personnel.

Let’s get it on!

REDEMPTION SONGS The images posted on Krem TV was all bad, very, bad. A squad of “police officers” all but one dressed in military combat clothing, were advancing in attack formation.

A kind of copy-cat, anti-terrorist approach like in movies .

Like in oppressive countries, where the poor are treated like enemies. It looked like the brutal Israelis storming into homes of Palestinians.

Like racist white police in America going into black neighborhoods. Belize’s militarized police, complete with military camouflage uniforms and big semiautomatic weapons is a traumatic nightmare for our people. The oppressed poor people in Lake I voiced their resentment and anger. “It’s been a long time coming but they have prayed for a change to come.”

Some senior police officers have not gotten the memo.

Keep away from these unacceptable Honduras, Salvador, Israel and Guatemala military behavior.

The word is in Community Policing.

If they had asked Superintendent Alejandro Cowo, who is in charge of Crime Investigation Branch, he would have gone to the home and left a message that the murder suspect was to be told to go and see him before the day was over. They always turn up.

Policing is brains, not brutality.

To our brethren, the new dynamic Minister, Kareem don’t feel besieged. It is not your sole duty to solve crime. The crime situation on Southside has deep roots in poverty, economic deprivation, social meltdown, dysfunctional families, indiscipline, governmental neglect and lack of opportunities.

Not to mention the horrible housing and living conditions, lack of schooling etc.

An inter-ministerial task -force with private sector inclusion is an urgent option. Urgent like yesterday.

New permanent secretary Kevin Arthurs is familiar with this discussion.

$18,000,000 UDP Ministry of Tourism Spent on projects since May 12 million alone went to Montero’s brother for 3 visitor centers.

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THE BELIZE TIMES

There are now two promising potential COVID vaccines. This is what we know about them

By Adrianna Rodriguez, Weintraub for USAToday

Karen

Nearly seven months after Operation Warp Speed was created, Americans are finally starting to get answers about the candidate vaccines that could potentially slow the coronavirus pandemic.

Operation Warp Speed – the White House-led task force on coronavirus vaccine treatment and development – was created on May 15.

Since then, vague and contradicting timelines made by both the Trump administration and leading scientists have muddled predictions about when a COVID-19 vaccine would be available to the public.

However, two big companies leading the race for a vaccine have released promising results from their Phase 3 trials.

Here’s what we know about both trials and what they might mean for the future of the pandemic.

What are the leading COVID-19 candidate vaccines?

• Pfizer and the German biotechnology company BioNTech developed one of the candidate vaccines.

They announced early findings of their vaccine, BNT162b2, on Nov. 9.

• Moderna, a Cambridge, Massachusetts-based biotechnology company released data early Monday, November 16, on its candidate vaccine, mRNA-1273, which was developed in collaboration with the U.S. government.

Both results are preliminary, with final results expected in as soon as a few weeks.

How effective are the candidate vaccines and what does that mean?

Pfizer released interim results that showed its candidate vaccine was more than90% effective, after 94 patients developed COVID-19 – the vast majority of whom received the placebo.

Out of Pfizer’s 44,000 volunteers, half the participants received a placebo and half the vaccine, so the new data shows that more people who received the placebo than the vaccine came down with COVID-19.

They were protected a week after the second dose of the vaccine. The two doses are given 21 days apart.

Pfizer/BioNTech will do a final check

of effectiveness when 164 study participants have fallen ill.

Moderna’s vaccine appears to be 94.5% effective against the disease, after 95 people out of the 30,000 volunteers came down with COVID-19, 90 of whom received the placebo. Eleven people – all in the placebo group – developed “serious” cases of the disease.

A final analysis is expected to include 151 trial volunteers, by which point, statistically, the company can be 90% sure that its findings will hold true.

Are there any side effects to the Moderna, Pfizer vaccines?

Both candidate vaccines reported mild or moderate side effects, mostly pain at the injection site, fatigue and aching muscles and joints for a day or two.

“A sore arm and feeling crummy for a day or two is a lot better than COVID,” Dr. William Schaffner, professor of health policy and of preventive medicine at the Vanderbilt University School of Medicine.

What makes Pfizer, Moderna candidates different from others?

The Chinese government publicly released the genetic sequence of the virus that causes COVID-19, called SARS-CoV-2, in mid-January, a few weeks after recognizing an outbreak was underway. Scientists focused on the sequence for the so-called spike protein found on the surface of the virus, which allows the virus to attach itself to host cells to infect them.

The Moderna and Pfizer vaccines are based on delivering strands of genetic material to turn people’s cells into spike protein factories. The spike proteins created by the body aren’t dangerous because the rest of the virus isn’t present, however, the body now sees the protein and designs immune soldiers to fight it upon future exposure.

What a vaccine volunteer has to say: I volunteered for Moderna’s COVID vaccine trial. Here’s why I think I got the vaccine, not a placebo This technology has never been used before in an approved vaccine, and other vaccines have taken 15-20 years to develop and test. The mRNA technology was chosen this time because scientists knew it could be developed quickly. Other COVID-19 vaccine candidates being supported by the U.S. government target the spike protein via a carrier virus or tiny particle. (Read more at USAtoday. com)

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2020

LIQUOR LICENSE NOTICES Notice is hereby given that Wu Cheng Li is applying for a Shop Liquor License to be operated at “Wu Cheng Li Shop” located at # 32 Currasow Street, Belize City, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Wen Huan Li is applying for a Restaurant Liquor License to be operated at “Canton’s Restaurant” located at # 63 New Road, Belize City, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Leticia Robateau is applying for a Beer Liquor License to be operated at “Maulette Grocery” located at # 28 Pickstock Street, Belize City, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Kenny Lo is applying for a Shop Liquor License to be operated at “Benson Shop” located at # 5 Mitchell Estate, Ladyville Village, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Jingmin Mei is applying for a Convenience Store Liquor License to be operated at “Kickdown Family ABC” located at # 68 Albert Hoy Street, Belize City, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Shao Qing Huang is applying for a Restaurant Liquor License to be operated at “Vista Restaurant” located at # 632 Vista Del Mar, Ladyville Village, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Wilson Chi-Leung Cheung/Xiao Li Zhao are applying for a Restaurant Liquor License to be operated at “Pandora Cafe” located at # 2136 St. Thomas Street, Belize City, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Zhong Qiang Zhu is applying for a Restaurant Liquor License to be operated at “Fantaxia Restaurant” located at # 6 Queen Charlotte Street, Belize City, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Li Yu Zhu is applying for a Convenience Store Liquor License to be operated at “Jo John Shop” located at # 22 Lovely Lane, Belize City, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Xiao Zhi Li is applying for a Convenience Store Liquor License to be operated at “Yenidio Restaurant” located at # 18 Central American Blvd., Belize City, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Peiru Liu is applying for a Restaurant Liquor License to be operated at “New World Restaurant” located at # 1901 Constitution Drive, Belmopan City, Cayo District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Janine Lopez & Ekaterina Diab are applying for a Malt & Cider Liquor License to be operated at “Moe’s Pizza Pasta LLP” located at Miles 3 Philip Goldson Highway, Belize City, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Janine Lopez & Ekaterina Diab are applying for a Malt & Cider Liquor License to be operated at “Moe’s Pizza Pasta LLP.” located on Newtown Barracks, Belize City, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Chun Mei Liu is applying for a Shop Liquor License to be operated at “Brother’s Store” located at # 15 Gordon Drive, Lord’s Bank Village, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that A.Z.M. Obaidul Islam is applying for a Malt & Cider Liquor License to be operated at “Caribbean Charm” located at # 111 North Front Street, Belize City, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

LOST BOAT REGISTRATION CERTIFICATE: Notice is hereby given that Lynn Christine Kier , of DFC Area, San Pedro Town, Belize District, owner of a fiberglass skiff namely “The Newt” bearing registration number OW-0024 is declaring the lost of her boat registration certificate.

29 NOV

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2020

Editor’s Choice: International Tidbits

(Officials have warned that a delay in the presidential transition could affect vaccine distribution [File: Dado Ruvic/Illustration via Reuters])

(© A handout photo made available by the Presidency of Peru shows the Peruvian president Francisco Sagasti )

Peru had 3 presidents in one week. Now it has four months to fix the system.

U.S. officials plan to release 6.4 million COVID-19 vaccine doses in first distribution

By Adam Taylor

On Nov. 9, Martín Vizcarra, a popular The head of the independent who had led Peru since 2018, was ousted after United States an impeachment vote found government’s coronavirus vaccine him guilty of the archaic charge of “moral incapacity.” He was succeeded effort has said that the first doses of the drug will “hopefully” be by Manuel Merino, the head of Peru’s Congress, who had clashed with the president over reforms. administered by mid-December.

Critics called it a legislative coup, and masses took to the streets “Our plan is to be able to ship vaccines to the for the biggest protests in decades. After two young protesters died, immunisation sites within 24 hours from the approval,” said Merino announced that he would resign. He had been president only five Slaoui, who heads so-called Operation Warp Speed, a federal days. And so Peru’s Congress quickly put forward a new name for programme that scales up the manufacturing of promising president: Francisco Sagasti. vaccines as they are developed.

Sagasti had been a relatively obscure politician, arguably better “So I expect maybe on day two after approval on the 11th known for his academic background than his politics. But having declined or the 12th of December,” he said. to support the impeachment proceedings against Vizcarra, he was a The official spoke just a day after the US confirmed 12 million compromise choice. He pledged to lead the country as a technocratic cases of the novel coronavirus in the country, according to Johns Hopkins interim president ahead of next year’s vote on April 11.

University data. On Friday, the US set another daily record of more than …becoming the third Peruvian leader in barely a week, he 198,000 newly confirmed cases, amid a surge across the country as the acknowledged the grand scale of the task ahead — facing not just him but colder months set in. (excerpts from AlJazeera) also all of Peru. (Lea más en washingtonpost.com) Nov 22

(© Getty Images Trump transition order follows chorus of GOP criticism)

Trump transition order follows chorus of GOP criticism

By Alexander Bolton Nov-24 President Trump's decision to tell his administration to start the transition came as GOP criticism of his efforts to overturn the results of President-elect Joe Biden's win reached a crescendo…

In the hours leading up to Trump's announcement, more Republicans came out with statements saying the election was over, Biden was likely the next president and it was important to begin the transfer of power.

Among those GOP voices were Sens. Shelley Moore Capito (W.Va.) and Rob Portman (Ohio), two advisers to the Senate Republican leadership.

Criticism also came from prominent conservatives like talk show host Rush Limbaugh, who said Trump's legal team needed to back up its claims of widespread voter fraud with hard evidence. (For more go to theHill.com)

(Climate Central)

A new CDC report found that Kansas counties who complied with a mask mandate saw a decrease in cases compared to counties that didn't

By Connor Perrett

A Friday report from the Centers for Disease Control found that counties in Kansas that adopted a mask mandate saw a decrease in cases of the disease, while counties that opted out saw an increase by 100%.

While experts have long agreed that masks are a key part of limiting the spread of COVID-19, their usage has been the subject of months-long political debate.

According to the CDC, the findings back up similar declines seen in 15 states and in Washington DC, which also mandated masks. (For more go to insider.com)

((Los visitantes generaron ingresos por más de cuatro millones pesos en siete sitios arqueológicos. Daniel Tejada)

Chetumal: Turismo cultural deja millonario ingreso en Quintana Roo Por Enrique Mena

(looplu.com)

La reactivación del turismo cultural en Quintana Roo permitió ingresos por cuatro millones 448 mil 735 pesos en siete sitios arqueológicos que volvieron a abrir en el bimestre septiembre-octubre, según cifras del INAH. De acuerdo con el reporte más actual del Instituto Nacional de Antropología e Historia (INAH), las ruinas de Tulum, Cobá, San Gervasio y Muyil, que reabrieron el 14 de septiembre, generaron un millón 628 mil 330 pesos por concepto de boletos de entrada pagados, en ese mes. … Las estadísticas oficiales precisan que de 82 mil 299 personas que entraron a disfrutar de los vestigios culturales de esos siete sitios arqueológicos abiertos al público, fueron 59 mil 442 (72.22%) que sí pagaron su cover de entrada… (Lea más en Sipse.com)

Study finds EU blacklisted countries cause less than 2% of tax losses

By Daphne Ewing Chow

cent."

"EU blacklisted jurisdictions cause less than 2 per cent of global tax losses while EU member states cause 36 per

This is according to the findings of an annual study released yesterday by global advocacy group, The Tax Justice Network (TJN).

Adopted in 2017, the EU blacklist is used by member states of the European Union to address what it deems as external risks of tax abuse and unfair tax competition. The screening process does not include EU member countries..

TJN's analysis of the jurisdictions on the EU tax haven blacklist found EU blacklisted countries to be collectively responsible for just 1.72 per cent of global tax losses, costing countries over $7 billion in lost taxes per year.

In comparison, EU member states were found to be responsible for 36 per cent of global tax losses, costing countries over $154 billion in lost taxes every year.

Top Caribbean economist, Marla Dukharan has argued against the indisputable power dynamics inherent in the blacklisting of "certain hapless non-EU members" for non-compliance with its "code of conduct and ever-changing tax-related requirements," referring to them acts of racism and bullying.

"We have to ask ourselves the question, are EU member states held to the same standards to which they are holding Cayman and other jurisdictions? Do they even hold non-EU states, such as the UK or the US to the same standards? The answer is no," says Dukharan.

According to the TJN report, higher income countries are responsible for 98 per cent of countries’ tax losses, costing countries around the world over $419 billion in lost tax every year while lower income countries are responsible for just 2 per cent, costing countries over $8 billion in lost tax every year.

Among the top offenders identified in the TJN report were high income countries such as the United Kingdom (10 per cent; over $42 billion), the Netherlands (8.5 per cent; over $36 billion), Luxembourg (6.5 per cent; over $27 billion) and the US (5.53 per cent; over $23 billion). (For more go to loopslu.com)

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29 NOV

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THE BELIZE TIMES

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OUR SOLEMN COVENANT WITH THE BELIZEAN PEOPLE WE, THE THIRTY-ONE CANDIDATES OF THE PEOPLE’S UNITED PARTY, INDIVIDUALLY AND COLLECTIVELY UNCONDITIONALLY AND IN GOOD FAITH PLEDGE TO: 1. Work ceaselessly to achieve the goals set out in the #PLANBELIZE Manifesto of the People’s United Party 2. Above all, remain faithful to the motto of the PUP – Serve the People – and not to use our offices for personal gain 3. At all times faithfully uphold and defend the Constitution and Laws of Belize 4. Unreservedly support plans and policies of a PUP Government that promote social, economic, and environmental justice 5. Ensure that all workers receive fair pay for their work and to implement a livable minimum wage of $5 per hour 6. To work to eliminate economic and social privilege and disparity among Belizeans and to protect the right of all to life, liberty, access to affordable education, universal health care, land and housing and the right to live in peaceful communities 7. To protect the identity, dignity and social and cultural values of Belizeans including indigenous peoples 8. To actively promote sustainable development in Belize and to protect our natural and built environment 9. To insist on good and transparent governance and to hold accountable those who betray the public good 10. To defend Belize’s territorial integrity and to protect Belize’s interest in international fora.

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29 NOV

2020