Belize Times November 28, 2021- Economic Recuperation

The Belize Times

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28 NOV

THE BELIZE TIMES

2021

Established 1957

28 NOVEMBER 2021 | ISSUE NO: 5277

The Truth Shall Make You Free

www.facebook/belizetimes | $1.00

ECONOMIC RECOVERY

ALL RISING: Employment | Exports | GDP 15.2% Pg. 2

- 45 Nursing Scholarships - Covid Positivity Rate 5.4% - $5 Minimum Wage Gradually - Anti-Price Gouging Legislation

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Tragic Week on the Highways Drivers Caution!!

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FIRST Meeting of the Social Partnership Advisory Council Pg.9

PAVED HOPKINS RD. INAUGURATED

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Congratulations!

Alaska Air: $140M Jab into Economy Cabinet Brief

YOU AND ME - FROM 16 DAYS TO 365: END VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN NOW!

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28 NOV

THE BELIZE TIMES

2021

ECONOMIC RECOVERY Cabinet Brief

Belmopan. 24th November 2021. 4:45 p.m The Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Hon. John Briceño, met in regular session on 23rd November 2021.

• Cabinet instructed the Ministry of Agriculture, Food Security and Enterprise to conduct a study into the rising cost of living. In addition, Cabinet instructed the minister to introduce legislation at the next sitting of the House of Representatives ensuring that all necessary legal mechanisms are in place for the relevant authority to pursue merchants and shop owners engaged in price gouging.

• The Prime Minister along with the Ministerial Consultative Team convened the first meeting with the Social Partnership Committee to review government’s performance for the past six months. The consultation was in partial fulfilment of government’s undertaking that was laid out in a letter sent by the Prime Minister to the joint unions dated 18th May 2021. The Ministerial Consultative Team provided an update on the state of government’s finances, held discussions on efforts to achieve government’s Plan Belize agenda on good governance as well as agreed on a term of reference for future meetings including biennial meetings of the Social Partnership Committee.

• Hon. Michel Chebat, Minister of Health & Wellness, informed Cabinet that in conjunction with the Ministry of Education, Culture, Science and Technology, 45 Belizeans were awarded scholarships to study nursing at the University of Belize. Valuing more than a quarter million dollars, these scholarships were granted to qualified students with outstanding academic performance.

• Cabinet was updated on the status of vaccinations and the number of vaccines available in Belize. Currently, there are more than 369,588 vaccines available. As of 23rd November 2021, 208,621 persons or 48.5 percent had received at least one dose of the vaccine and 192,206 or 44.7 percent have been fully vaccinated. Also, for the first time since the start of the third wave, the daily positivity rate fell to 5.4 percent, an indication that the nation is moving in the right direction.

• Cabinet mandated that effective Thursday, 25th November 2021, all motor omnibuses are permitted to carry 100 percent seating capacity.

All bus operators are required to continue adhering to the COVID-19 regulations and ensuring that all their buses are sanitized properly, that passengers continue to wear their face masks properly, and sanitize prior to boarding the buses. It is the responsibility of bus operators to prohibit passengers without a face mask and to remove any passenger in violation. Failure to do so will result in fines to be levied upon operators.

• Cabinet approved recommendations from the Ministry of Sustainable Development, Climate Change and Disaster Risk Management to reintroduce legislation in the National Assembly for Belize to become a State Party to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). This will allow for Belize to fulfill its commitments to address the illegal trade of endangered species of fauna and flora, to promote the management, conservation, and protection of endangered species and to establish the necessary legal structures enabling the effective regulation of international trade of CITES listed species in compliance with international obligations.

• Cabinet gave its approval for the Minister of Rural Transformation, Community Development, Labour and Local Government to conduct a comprehensive review of the Labour Act, including a review of new regulations in relation to the COVID-19 pandemic. Also, the ministry was requested to formulate a plan for the gradual implementation of government’s commitment to reaching a five-dollar minimum wage.

• Finally, as the holiday season draws near, Cabinet continues to encourage those not yet vaccinated to do so and reminds Belizeans who have been fully vaccinated for more than six months that booster shots are now available. The public is reminded to maintain physical distance, wash hands regularly, and wear a mask or face covering in public.

“We found balance and developed a home grown economic planBELIZE where we are working toward 7% growth this year.

Even the IMF did not believe us, but I have never doubted the resilience of the Belizean people, because we believe in ourselves.”

– PM John Briceño at the 71 and 1 Celebration.

As Belizeans are going back to work along with everyone managing Covid successfully the dawn of a new unprecedented era of prosperity is definitely here. New data from the Statistical Institute of Belize is irrefutable that Barrow grieved in vain. Barrow and Faber’s driving the Belizeans economy into a flood of decay could NOT against the collective power of the Belizean people, planBelize, and a PUP team like no other ready to serve the people. The strict home grown measures implemented by the Government are inclusive of the aggressive marketing strategies in the tourism, agriculture and the services sectors have put Belize on a track to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic and from the gross, and probably criminal, mismanagement of public funds by the Barrow/Faber UDP administration. The data experts at the Statistical Institute of Belize (SIB) reported to Belize virtually on this information on how Belize’s economy looks.

In the same speech quoted above, the PM said, “JOB creation remains our # 1 priority.” There is success in that front. When compared to the same period of 2020, January to September, 2021, despite the fact that cost of living has gone up considerably, mainly because of skyrocketing shipping costs, the Government has managed to reverse the unemployment rate, bringing it to within single digits to 9.2%, from 13.7% where it stood exactly a year ago. Of the 191,880 persons that make up the labour force up to the end of September, a little over 90% were gainfully employed; and the boost in employment reflected a reopening of businesses that these people returned to. Our job market still caters largely to male-oriented jobs, and many females remain unemployed. This is an aspect that is tackled earnestly by planBelize policies.

The figures show that Orange Walk recorded the lowest unemployment rate at 6.4%. Things had also spun around for the Belize District, which had the highest unemployment rate of 15.1% during the same period in 2020. By September of this year, however, only 6.5% of those persons remained unemployed. The majority of those who found jobs did so either in the tourism industry, real estate business or in the trade and the services sector like call centres. Toledo, the only district that did not show a lower unemployment rate from last year, saw a notable increase in unemployment among young females between the ages of 14 to 24.

Our external trade status was also looking healthier at the end of September, according to the SIB. “For the period January to October of 2021, Belize’s imports stood at $1.7 billion. This was significant growth of almost 30% or $386.5 as imports increased across all commodity categories, when compared to that same period last year,” SIB Statistician, Tiffany Vasquez reported. “Such a wide sweep in increased imports is reflective of not only a comparison made to the severely-reduced imports of 2020, which were notably impacted by the challenges of the pandemic, but higher world market prices for various commodities and greater shipping costs were largely responsible for this increase,” Vasquez continued.

Exports also increased for Belize, to $367.4 million, up by $42.8 million, which converts to a 13.2% increase over exports for that same period in 2020.

Sugar was the largest income earner, up by $21 million. A very welcome sign is the earnings for corn-based animal feed which doubled, from $11.5 million to $23.3 million. Earnings from marine products increased by 27%, from $32.3 million to $41.1 million.

The Gross Domestic Product (GDP) grew by 15.2% over 2020. Statistician, Christopher Hulse, explained that data was analyzed from among the country’s three productive sectors of the economy: primary, which includes raw materials that can be processed, secondary, which processes the raw materials into bi-products, and the tertiary sector, which caters mainly to services.

“We now have two consecutive quarters where we see production approaching levels prior to 2020. The tertiary sector continues to have the highest contribution, accounting for Continued on page 5

The Belize Times

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14 APR 2013

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ISSUE NO: 4840

The Truth Shall Make You Free

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28 NOV

2021

THE BELIZE TIMES

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EDITORIAL One at a Time!!!

PPP’s the new buzz term in the investment world. Simply put, they are public-private partnerships. They are formal financial arrangements between the government and private interests to raise capital for public services and infrastructure. This is done to share the risks and returns of the investment over a long period of time. In addition, the private party may also be responsible for the management and operation and the return is usually based on the performance of the investment. There are many obvious advantages to using Public-Private Partnerships (PPP’s). The primary benefit is of course that it allows for infrastructure development to take place without having to use public funds or constrain them. The government reduces or better manages its risk of investing by sharing the risk with its private partner. It also increases cooperation between the two sectors, increases technical and technological cooperation, and builds growth through private sector integration. Finally, the government increases employment and is able to provide the needed infrastructure or service. Society benefits from the reduced cost of the infrastructure provided, better technology and savings in time and cost.

Belize has embraced this new model. The 1.2-mile Hopkins Road is the most recent example of a progressive new government that takes bold initiatives to get the necessary infrastructure ready for its hardworking citizens. The new road was ready just in time as this week seems to mark the start of an active tourist season. Hopkins will benefit greatly from this road as it pushes to become one of the leading tourist destinations in the country. Certainly, the visitors will have ease of travel and enjoy their stay. However, for the residents of Hopkins and the others in the area, the upgrades in the infrastructure mean that the improved connectivity to work and home has greatly increased their quality of life, their productivity and has diminished the wear and tear associated with the maintenance of vehicles. For the business community that invested in this road the benefits are far-reaching, better roads mean that suppliers are more willing to come into the area and quality and variety of goods and services can flow more freely. Visitors and tour operators will be more willing and able to come into the area to spend, and this increases the economic development of the charming destination.

Investment in the rural areas to keep them connected and to drive economic development is needed. Alone the government would not have been able to accomplish it. This partnership allowed for this infrastructure to be done efficiently and effectively. Compare 1.2 miles at 850k in Hopkins with that famous 8M mile in Belize City, and we are not even allowing for inflation. There may be naysayers, there will always be a few. Progress, efficiency, and results cannot be denied. This project saw the collaboration of two different ministries the Ministry of Infrastructure Development and Housing and The Ministry of Tourism and Diaspora Relations and tourism stakeholders. The road was done in record time at an uninflated cost, which is acceptable to all the parties involved. The World Bank and other IFI’s will continue to encourage this modality because it works. Belize is again embracing change that works, is not afraid of innovation and keeps pushing the economy forward one project at a time. The Government of Belize continues to deliver on the commitments of Plan Belize!

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THE BELIZE TIMES

EDITORIAL

28 NOV

2021

en Español

¡¡¡Uno a la Vez!!!

La APP es el nuevo término de moda en el mundo de la inversión. En pocas palabras, son asociaciones público-privadas. Se trata de acuerdos financieros formales entre el gobierno y los intereses privados para obtener capital para servicios e infraestructuras públicas.

Esto se hace para compartir los riesgos y los beneficios de la inversión durante un largo periodo de tiempo. Además, la parte privada puede encargarse también de la gestión y el funcionamiento; y el rendimiento suele basarse en los resultados de la inversión. El uso de las Asociaciones Público-Privadas (APP) tiene muchas ventajas evidentes. La principal ventaja es, por supuesto que permite el desarrollo de infraestructuras sin tener que utilizar fondos públicos o limitarlos. El gobierno reduce o gestiona mejor su riesgo de inversión al compartir el riesgo con su socio privado. También aumenta la cooperación entre los dos sectores, incrementa la cooperación técnica y tecnológica y fomenta el crecimiento mediante la integración del sector privado. Por último, el gobierno aumenta el empleo y es capaz de proporcionar la infraestructura o el servicio necesario. La sociedad se beneficia de la reducción del coste de la infraestructura proporcionada, de una mejor tecnología y del ahorro de tiempo y costes.

Belice ha adoptado este nuevo modelo. La carretera de Hopkins, de 1,2 millas, es el ejemplo más reciente de un nuevo gobierno progresista que adopta iniciativas audaces para poner las infraestructuras necesarias a disposición de sus esforzados ciudadanos. La nueva carretera está lista justo a tiempo, ya que esta semana parece marcar el inicio de una activa temporada turística. Hopkins se beneficiará enormemente de esta carretera, ya que se esfuerza para convertirse en uno de los principales destinos turísticos del país. Sin duda, los visitantes tendrán facilidad para viajar y disfrutar de su estancia. Sin embargo, para los residentes de Hopkins y los demás de la zona, las mejoras en la infraestructura significan que la mejor conectividad con el trabajo y el hogar ha aumentado en gran medida su calidad de vida, su productividad y ha disminuido el desgaste asociado al mantenimiento de los vehículos. Para la comunidad empresarial que invirtió en esta carretera, los beneficios son de gran alcance: mejores carreteras significan que los proveedores están más dispuestos a venir a la zona y la calidad y variedad de los bienes y servicios pueden fluir más libremente.

Los visitantes y los operadores turísticos estarán más dispuestos y podrán venir a la zona a gastar, y esto aumenta el desarrollo económico del encantador destino.

Es necesario invertir en las zonas rurales para mantenerlas conectadas e impulsar el desarrollo económico. Por sí solo, el gobierno no habría podido llevarlo a cabo. Esa asociación permitió que esta infraestructura se realizara de forma eficiente y eficaz. Comparen 1,2 millas a 850.000 dólares en Hopkins con la famosa milla de 8 millones en la ciudad de Belice, y ni siquiera tenemos en cuenta la inflación. Puede que haya detractores, siempre habrá algunos. No se puede negar el progreso, la eficacia y los resultados. En este proyecto concreto colaboraron dos ministerios diferentes: el Ministerio de Desarrollo de Infraestructuras y Vivienda y el Ministerio de Turismo y Relaciones con la Diáspora, así como los agentes del sector turístico. La carretera se hizo en un tiempo récord y a un coste no inflado, lo que es aceptable para todas las partes implicadas. El Banco Mundial y otras IFI seguirán fomentando esta modalidad porque funciona. Belice vuelve a abrazar el cambio que funciona, no teme la innovación, y sigue impulsando la economía un proyecto a la vez. ¡El Gobierno de Belice continúa cumpliendo con los compromisos del Plan Belice!

28 NOV

2021

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THE BELIZE TIMES

Alaska Air: $140M Jab into Economy Friday November 19, 2021 - Belize welcomed today Alaska Airline’s first non-stop flights from Los Angeles and Seattle Washington With a wintertime seasonal Seattle service and year round flights from Los Angeles, one of the busiest hubs in the world, travellers are now offered the ease and convenience of a direct connection to Belize’s blend of culture, adventure and leisure. Belize became the fourth destination outside of the United States served by Alaska Airlines, a top-rated international carrier with over 12,000 flights per day. The inaugural flights brought 150 visitors arrived from Seattle while 116 arrived from Los Angeles. The new non-stop flights now open doors between Belize and the Pacific Northwest, and signal that Belize’s tourism industry is on track once again to become the nation’s largest revenue earner. Minister Anthony Mahler pointed out that Alaska Air is estimated to be a 140 Million dollar injection into the Belizean Economy. This, of course, factors in the buying power that visitors from two flights over a year would bring to the Belizean economy. And to think that Frontier Airline is yet to have its inaugural flight on December 11.

To mark this occasion, inaugural ceremonies were held at Seattle Washington Santa Monica and at Belize’s PGIA. Passengers were treated to a Delight Flight Activation at the Seattle

ECONOMIC RECOVERY

Continued from page 1 more than half of GDP growth for the third quarter. … It has a total value added of $390.3 million out of the $649.7 million that I stated earlier, which is approximately 6.1% of the GDP.” Notably, the inflation rate at the end of September, 2021 was up 5.2% over the same time in 2020. Rising fuel prices, as well as a 5.8% increase in the cost of food and non-alcoholic beverages, meats (pigtail), rice, red kidney beans, vegetables and fruits, and other things like housing, water, electricity, and butane gas prices were the main factors for the spike. Supply chain crises all over the world is responsible for higher prices in all imported goods.

Cabinet has tasked that fuel prices be reviewed in order to see how these can be lowered. Also, legislation is being drafted that will look directly at price gouging. Both of these initiatives show a government that is in tune with the pains of the people. Our planBelize government is tasked with making living as affordable as it can be. Economic forces have their own life but planBelize can influence this as much as possible.

The PUP-led government has shown that is can be innovative is economic decisions. The same will be done with this. The people are being asked to vaccinate, keep their guard up against the coronavirus, be true to their job and be a part of this government’s drive to serve the country. Belize is already working for Belizeans but, yes, there is lots more to do. Everyone is invited to participate in working for a better Belize.

Gate in Santa Monica with cultural entertainment, as Alaska Airlines and Belize engaged in a ribbon cutting ceremony, symbolic of the official start of new routes and relations and an anticipated influx of travellers. The Seattle Activation also included interviews with the Seattle media, prize and ticket giveaways, live entertainment by our very own Garifuna drummers, custom announcements and music while inflight to Belize. The arrival of the flight in Belize was greeted by the beats of Garifuna drumming as the nation celebrates National Garifuna Day and concluded with a short official ceremony at the PGIA. Alaska Airlines and its regional partners serves more than 120 destinations globally delivering low fares, award-winning customer service and sustainability efforts. The airline emphasizes its Next Care Level for travelers from clean planes to clean air in the cabin with hospital-grade air filtration systems. To also commemorate this occasion, Alaska Airlines hosted a Belize-themed event at the promenade in Santa Monica earlier today.

This event featured chalk artists drawing large iconic images of Belize on the streets, gifts and ticket giveaways, Belize and Alaska Airlines branding, media and influencer attendees, and of course live entertainment and music from local Belize musicians.

“We’re celebrating our first flights

from Seattle and Los Angeles to the amazing destination of Belize today,” said Brett Catlin, vice president of network and alliances at Alaska Airlines at today’s ceremony. “Belize appeals to the adventurous spirit of many of our guests. The beautiful country offers countless possibilities, whether it’s along the water, on an island, in the middle of the jungle or in the shadow of ancient ruins. It’s one of those places you can’t wait to visit.”

In his opening remarks at the PGIA ceremony Minister Mahler noted, “Today, we mark another step forward in achieving that goal, as air connectivity is the lifeline of our tourism industry.

Important air connections like Starts this one from Alaska Airlines Nov. 19 combined with the current Nov. 20 service offered by the other Nov. 19 airlines, is a good indication of an exceedingly successful Nov. 20 tourism season in the coming months.”

To amplify marketing efforts, Belize Tourism Board and Alaska Airlines collaborated with Converge Media, a leading producer of culturally relevant content in Seattle and across the Pacific Northwest. A group of 14 influencers arrived on the inaugural flight for an 8-night stay to enjoy and feature the Garifuna food and culture and activities in Dangriga, Hopkins and Placencia. They will also visit the Belikin brewery and a

Liquors Distillery in Belize City. In addition, media representatives from Teen Vogue, POPSUGAR, Huffington Post, InStyle Los Angeles Times and Washington Post also arrived in country to an itinerary packed with Belize adventures and culture. These marketing efforts provide exposure for the destination as it highlights Belize’s unbeatable treasures and confirms Belize’s credibility to potential travelers.

Tickets can be purchased at alaskaair.com for flights twice per week for Seattle and four times per week for Los Angeles.

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THREE TOP BELIZEAN RESORTS WIN PRESTIGOUS CONDE NAST JOHANSENS AWARDS November 22 2021 - The Belize Tourism Board (BTB) extends its congratulations to Cayo Espanto, Victoria House Resort & Spa, and Coco Plum Island Resort for winning the Condé Nast Johansens’ Awards for Excellence 2022 in the Central and South America Category.

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THE BELIZE TIMES

FIRST Meeting of the Social Partnership Advisory Council

Prime Minister John Briceño set a tone of partnership and openness at the inaugural meeting of the Social Partnership Advisory Council (SPAC) with his opening remarks. The agenda was to discuss and approve the terms of reference. He also underlined the national recovery and renewal. PM Briceño also indicated that his administration has already begun negotiating a haircut with the Petro-Caribe loans.

Minister Coye provided an update on Public Finances 2021-2022 and outlined the improvements and challenges. The New Year will see restructuring of outstanding debt within the financial system.

The group felt that the idea was to have the committee’s term expire in 2024. It was also noted as useful to have SPAC as a legislated institution, giving a permanence to the partnership. While the committee will be meeting every six months, the four subcommittees will continue their work and make recommendations on revenue enhancement, cost saving measures, tax reform and consumer protection.

CARTOON

28 NOV

2021

28 NOV

2021

THE BELIZE TIMES

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PRIME MINISTER

HON. JOHN BRICEÑO SEVENTY-ONE AND ONE: 18TH NOVEMBER 2021

In an open letter to the world written in 2015 Pope Francis said: “When the foundations of social life are corroded, what ensues are battles over conflicting interests: new forms of violence and brutality, and obstacles to the growth of a genuine culture of care for the environment.”

This is indeed a profound statement and one that goes to the heart of what we believe in – social justice.

On 11th November 2020, our great Party, was given a task for giants. One year on, we have much to report on and much

to be grateful for.

For our 49th Anniversary of Independence the Belizean musician Brithney Starr sang some powerful words “we must unite, our future’ is bright, together we can make it.” With her beautiful voice she went on to say “if we stand and rise…yes we can,” And she reminded us, we will succeed united, “only unity.”

These words capture the spirit of our people as we found balance and developed a home grown economic planBELIZE where we are working toward 7% growth this year. Even the IMF did not believe us, but I have never doubted the resilience of the Belizean people, because we believe in ourselves.

On 11th November, 2020 with 60,000 Belizeans out of work, we wasted no time worrying about what the previous government did, and the mountain of corruption left for us to confront. We started the work. In less than a year, we pushed forward our program. My beloved Belizeans the farm to table revolution is real.

Months into our term we are re-starting one of the big engines of economic strength – Tourism. That Belize ranks 2nd in the region for vaccinating its population did not just happen like magic. It took a herculean international effort, with a frontline powered by diplomats, and healthcare workers. JOB creation remains our # 1 priority. Yes, we have created 25,000 jobs, but there is much more to be done. Returning our children to the classrooms remains our sacred obligation. In one year, we kick started a radical housing program. Our people built more homes for our most in need than in the previous 13 years.

So, my message to you today is that we must remain calm and calculated and stay the course. We are engaged, using our mobile lands department to deal with the issue where you are – in the community. We are doing everything we can to put the hot bed of corruption into the dustbin of history. The PUP is a homegrown peoples’ movement of liberation, we did not get here on 11th November 2020, we were given another chance to plan and implement the work, to build a Belize that Works for Everyone.

Today as we celebrate 71 years as a Party I call the names of the party leaders upon whose shoulders I stand: John Smith, Leigh Richardson, George Price, Said Musa, and Francis Fonseca.

Our Father of Independence George Price has gone ahead.

Our warrior and champion for social justice and de-colonization, Said Musa is recovering stronger by the day, and his love for our beloved Party remains steadfast and unshakable.

I remain grateful to be seated at the same Cabinet table with our loyal and compassionate soldier Francis Fonseca who embodies service to others.

We are ALL just leaders; you the people are our guiding light and no one shines brighter than Belize. So today, we not only acknowledging year one of your plan Belize government, or even year seventy-one of our party, we acknowledge our collective commitment to nation building. We acknowledge the work ahead. And we remain steadfast in our commitment to serve the people today and tomorrow.

And with the guidance of our Creator and in unity we will rise.

Yes I believe in my Belize!

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THE BELIZE TIMES

28 NOV

2021

Prime Minister Briceño Meets with the Belize Chamber of Commerce and Industry

Belmopan. November 25, 2021. 4:30 p.m.

On November 24, 2021, Prime Minister Hon. John Briceño and Hon. Christopher Coye, Minister of State in the Ministry of Finance, Economic Development and Investment, met with the executive council of the Belize Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI) at his office in Belize City.

A very fruitful discussion was held regarding several issues affecting the business community. Prime Minister Briceño listened to several suggestions from the council which brought constructive and positive feedback from their constituency.

The main area of focus was the imminent opening of the land borders.

The Prime Minister informed the council that Cabinet, after much discussion and considering several important factors, had decided that the land borders would be opened in early 2022. The details of the reopening are to be further discussed in Cabinet and protocols would be announced to the public as soon as these are finalized. A commitment was made by the Prime Minister to take back to Cabinet the various recommendations offered by the BCCI to be considered upon the reopening of the borders.

Among other issues discussed were the COVID-19 pandemic, the numerous onApplications are invited from suitably qualified persons to fill the following post in the Operations Department. In the going reforms presently being undertaken by Port’s continued effort to promote diversity, both females/males, are encouraged to apply for the available post. the government, and other reforms that need ASSISTANT OPERATIONS SUPERVISOR to be implemented to improve the business environment. It was agreed that other producReports to: Cargo Operations Manager tive discussions will continue in the new year.

VACANCY: JOB OPPORTUNITY

Belize represented at the 6th Annual Florida International Trade and Cultural Expo

The Minister responsible for Youth, Sports & E-Governance Hon. Kevin Bernard along with the National Director of Sports Council Ian Cal and the Deputy Speaker of the House Hon. Marconi Leal attended the 6th Annual Florida International Trade and Cultural Expo.

Minister Bernard expounded on the recent and first ever Belize Investment Summit and encouraged Investors from over 70 countries who were present. He was also engaged in individual meetings in terms of sports, youth work and E-Governance.

The two-day event which took place in Fort Lauderdale, was very fruitful and promises opportunity for our country, Belize. The Minister reiterated the words of PM Briceño that Belize is ‘Open for Business’ and that we are committed to ensuring the ease of doing Business in Belize through our commitment of digital transformation of our Government Services. PlanBelize keeps on working for Belize.

The Minister would like to express his full support and appreciation to the Belize American Chamber of Commerce which is led by Michael Young, Jr. and seconded by Rishma Sooknandan and others who are Belizeans in the Diaspora that continue to look for great opportunities for Belize.

Summary of Responsibilities: The Assistant Operations Supervisor will report to the Cargo Operations Manager and will assist with the supervision of all container movement and operations personnel. He or she will be responsible for preparing vessel worked forms to Accounts Department for billing and statistical/Operational reports. Able to check reefer plugins, read and calculate charges. Learn newly implemented Octopi Terminal Operating System, training to be provided. Assist COM with preparing gang order for vessels and reefer cargo information. This post is fun and challenging, come prepared for a new venture.

Job Responsibilities: 1. Assist with supervising of the movement of inbound and outbound of all containers and break bulk/bulk cargoes.

2. Assist with supervising of personnel working in the port compound and pier.

3. Check and sign delivery orders for authenticity to load direct delivery container 4. Assist with the supervising of the loading and unloading of containers and break-bulk vessels in compound/pierhead.

5. Provide reports of vessels worked to Accounts Department for billing.

6. Provide reports (work logs) of vessels worked for operations statistics.

7. Check reefer plugins, reading and calculate charges.

8. Prepare Operational reports.

9. Learn Octopi Terminal Operating System.

10. Assist with the preparation of gang order for vessels.

11. Check and prepare reefer cargo information.

12. Any other duties and functions, of a related nature that may be assigned from time to time by the Cargo Operations Manager.

Job qualifications/Requirements:    

Experience in Cargo & Container Operations, Production or similar would be an asset.

Associates Degree or higher Math & English CXC passes would be an asset.

Experience supervising a blue-collar team would be an asset.

Skills/Competencies:      

Ability to work independently Ability to work flexible working hours Math and analytical skills required.

Supervisory and leadership skills required.

Pro-activeness required.

Microsoft office proficiency required.

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

To apply: Provide updated resume, cover letter (addressed to Human Resource Manager), copy of valid social security

card, Valid police record, name and phone number of two (2) previous employers.

Applications should be emailed to:

jobapplications@portofbelize.com Closing date for receipt of applications is Friday, December 10th, 2021

28 NOV

2021

THE BELIZE TIMES

VOICE OF THE COMMON MAN

THE BELIZEAN ECONOMY ROARING BACK STRONGER!

By Hilly Bennett The Statistical Institute of Belize (SIB) released the economic indicators for Belize’s 3rd Quarter performance at the University of the West Indies (UWI) Belize Open Campus. A performance indicative of the Belizean economy roaring back stronger than before from the residual effects of the Barrow/Faber and the red regime’s economic depression—the result of fiscal mismanagement and the lack of sound financial stewardship under the United Democratic Party.

Consequently, the Peoples United Party (PUP) Government led

by Prime Minister Honourable John Briceño had to reconstruct and retool the economic structure to avoid a total collapse and/or the devaluation of the precious currency peg. Necessary policy changes were made with the introduction of fiscal consolidative measures along with cuts in public spending. One of the most difficult decisions of PM Briceño was the wage bill reduction. The government was coughing up one million a day to satisfy the wage bulge. Those decisions along with the paradigm shift in the area of trade and agriculture by Minister Jose Mai and the gung-ho approach to the turnaround of the tourism industry by Minister Anthony Mahler are some of the reasons why the 3rd Quarter growth of 15.2% is being considered

by Jules Vasquez et al as “robust” and could be considered for AA+ rating.

However, upon the consideration of the Jewel’s economic performance there is a rush to focus on the Consumer Price Index (CPI) and slide to disregarding GDP growth of 15.2%.

The holler is that cost of living is going up. The CPI is based on a weighted average of a sample of goods and services. The weights were based on

1990 and eventually they were updated in 2011. SIB consumer price index reports have shown that inflation has been inching up each month of 2021 in comparison to 2020 periods. The CPI is 5.2% for Q3. As explained by the SIB statistician, Belize as an importing country, imports a lot of her inflation.

Several factors were alluded to regarding the 5.2% CPI. The global market trends, such as the disruption to the supply chain, increase in transportation cost amongst others. Inflation is considered as a tax that redistributes income from the poor to the rich. Hence, the rich are much better than the poor at avoiding the inflation tax because they have many more options when it comes to protecting themselves.

However, the upside, especially for the common man, is the employment side of economic indicators for the 3rd Quarter. The labour force grew by 14 per cent indicating that opportunities exist for work which could enhance the standard of living for the common man. One factor that affects many households of the common people is the orgy of consumerism and not prioritising one’s spending habit. This could ease the effects of the rise in the prices and realised savings. The conversation has begun to revisit the minimum wage and could complement the take-home salary by the common man.

Nonetheless, the economy continues to grow under the stresses of the pandemic and should continue its upward trajectory in 2022 under the leadership of PM Briceño and the brilliant economic architects. The economy is recovering stronger and bouncing back better to the halcyon times of the past. A turnaround and not a turning back with a PUP Government at the helm of the economic ship.

Tragic Week on the Highways Drivers Caution!!

On a weekend where multiple accidents caused the loss of six lives and inflicted pain on many more families, the message cannot be clearer—Drivers must be extra cautious. All drivers should heed the idea that while they are on public roads they are responsible for lives in and out of their vehicle.

Drive with care. Be well-rested. Do not be distracted. Know all the rules of the road. At night raise your level of attention and lower your speed. Dim your headlights...

Message from the Belize Police Department In light of the increase of Road Traffic Accidents across the country, Commander Operations ACP., Alford Grinage implores ALL motorists and

cyclists that are traversing the highways and byways to drive and ride with due care and attention. Drive within the required speed limits whilst in cities, on the highways, and in villages. Wear seat belts at all times regardless of the distance, and have children properly seated in the back seat. Don’t drink and drive and don’t text or use cellular phones whilst driving.

Government of Belize/Caribbean Development Bank Second Road Safety Project On November 21, 2021, the Second Belize Road Safety Project joined the worldwide event “World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims (WDR)”.This day is commemorated on the third Sunday of November each

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PAVED HOPKINS RD. INAUGURATED

November 22, 2021: The newly paved Hopkins Village Road was officially inaugurated on Saturday, November 20th. The project entailed the paving of 1.2 miles of road, along with the erection of much needed road signs from GariMaya Gift Center all the way to Parrot Cove Lodge and was completed at an estimated $850,000. Recognized as the perfect example of the private and public sectors working together, the project was a joint venture by the Ministry of Tourism & Diaspora Relations, Ministry of Infrastructure Development, Ministry of Public Utilities and several stakeholders of the tourism industry in the area.

In his remarks during the ceremony, Hon. Anthony Mahler, Minister of Tourism & Diaspora Relations, said “We (government of Belize) recently approved an outline for public/private sector partnership and this project is a true example of that work – public and private sector collaborating together.”

Tourism represents 40% of the country’s GDP. “It is crucial, therefore, that we put the necessary infrastructure in place to support our beautiful assets – our natural and cultural diversity,” Minister Mahler said.

He referred to the recent inaugural flight of Alaska Airlines to Belize on November 19 and as-

year. On WDR, tribute is also paid to the dedicated emergency crews, police, and medical professionals who deal with the traumatic aftermath of road crashes daily.

World Day of Remembrance 2021 puts the spotlight on the reduction of traffic speeds. Low speeds have the potential to prevent many deaths and serious injuries, especially those of pedestrians and all other vulnerable road users such as children, elderly and the disabled. Many lives can be saved if drivers would just slow down.

As part of the activities to commemorate World Day of Remembrance 2021, the Second Road Safety Project will be engaging in a countrywide distribution of flyers at various checkpoints in collaboration with the Department of Transport and the Police Department.

sured those present that “we will see more tourists in this part of the country (Hopkins Village) as well as other destinations that offer a tourism product.”

The Minister also announced that recently, the Ministry of Tourism upgraded the road to the Actun Tunichil Muknal (ATM) cave, in collaboration with the Ministry of Infrastructure, and said there are more tourism projects in the pipeline for 2022.

Remarks were also delivered by Hon. Rodwell Ferguson, Area Representative for Stann Creek West and Minister of Public Utilities, and Hon. Julius Espat, Minister of Infrastructure Development, during which they pledged to continue working even harder to bring greater progress for Belize. Mr. Ian Lizarraga delivered remarks on behalf of the private sector group, who contributed financially towards the project. In his remarks, Mr. Lizarraga alluded to the quick response given by the government when the need for the road was identified.

At this time, prayers are requested for the families of persons who lost their lives or were seriously injured, as well as prayers and thoughts of gratitude for the many first responders, medical personnel, and caregivers.

As CEO in the Ministry of Finance, Economic Development and Investment and chair of the Operating Steering Committee of the Road Safety Project, Dr. Osmond Martinez and the Road Safety Team advise drivers to exercise caution, remove all distractions and, most importantly, REDUCE SPEED. The Belize Road Safety Project Initiative is a collaborative effort between the Caribbean Development Bank and the Government of Belize.

For more information on this initiative visit: https://www.facebook.com/SecondRoadSafetyProjectBZE One life lost is a life too many!

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28 NOV

THE BELIZE TIMES

2021

Belize Electricity Limited (BEL) invites separate tenders from qualified providers for the following services, at the locations listed below for the period January 1, 2022 to December 31, 2022.

Ladyville Storage Facilities on Airport Road West Lake Generating Facility at Mile 8 George Price Highway Belmopan Office on Toucan Avenue Belmopan Power Plant on Power Lane San Ignacio Office on Buena Vista Street San Ignacio Storage Compound on Benque Viejo Road Dangriga Office on George Price Drive

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Independence Offices on Savannah Road Punta Gorda Office on Far West Street Punta Gorda Plant at Eldridge Village Corozal Office on Santa Rita Hill Orange Walk Office & Storage on Yo Creek Road Caye Caulker Plant Office on Calle al Sol/Avenida Mangle San Pedro Office on Pescador Drive

Virtual pre-bid meeting at 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday, November 30, 2021.

Corporate Headquarters at 2 ½ Miles Philip Goldson Highway Belize City Offices on Magazine Road

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Virtual pre-bid meeting at 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday, November 30, 2021.

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Corporate Headquarters at 2½ Miles Philip Goldson Highway Ladyville Facilities on Airport Road Belize City Offices on Magazine Road West Lake Generating Facility at Mile 8 Western Highway Belmopan Office on Toucan Avenue Belmopan Power Plant on Power Lane San Ignacio Office on Buena Vista Street Dangriga Office on George Price Drive Independence Offices on Savannah Road Punta Gorda Office on Far West Street Corozal Office on Santa Rita Hill Orange Walk Office on Yo Creek Road Caye Caulker Plant Office on Calle al Sol/Avenida Mangle San Pedro Plant Office on Pescador Drive Belize City Substation on Magazine Road Ladyville Switchyard on Airport Road West Substation at Mile 8 George Price Highway

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La Democracia Substation at Mile 31 George Price Highway Camalote Switchyard in Camalote Village Belmopan Substation on Power Lane San Ignacio Substation on Benque Viejo Road Maskall Substation on the Old Northern Highway Santander Substation in Valley of Peace Village Dangriga Substation at Mile 6 Hummingbird Highway Punta Gorda Substation at Mile 14 San Antonio Road Independence Substation on Savannah Road Independence Switching Station at junction Southern Highway /Savannah Road BAL Substation on Placencia Road Belcogen Substation at BSI Site Tower Hill, Orange Walk Buena Vista Substation at Mile 69 Philip Goldson Highway Orange Walk Substation on Yo Creek Road Corozal Substation on Santa Rita Hill Chan Chen Substation at Ten Pound Caye Corozal District

Virtual pre-bid meeting at 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, November 30, 2021.

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Corporate Headquarters at 2½ Miles Philip Goldson Highway Belize City Offices on Magazine Road Ladyville Facilities on Airport Road West Lake Facilities at 8 Miles George Price Highway Belmopan Office on Toucan Avenue Belmopan Power Plant on Power Lane San Ignacio Office on Buena Vista Street

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Dangriga Office on George Price Drive Independence Office on George Price Drive Punta Gorda Office on Far West Street Corozal Office on Santa Rita Hill Orange Walk Office & Substation on Yo Creek Road San Pedro Office on Pescador Drive Caye Caulker Plant Office on Calle al Sol/Avenida Mangle

Virtual pre-bid meeting at 3:00 p.m. on Tuesday, November 30, 2021.

The bidding documents, which outline all the duties and responsibilities of the contract, and dates for the pre-bid meeting are available on BEL’s website at www.bel.com.bz/Tenders.aspx.

An email submission must be received at bidsubmittal@bel.com.bz no later than 3:00 p.m. on Friday, December 3, 2021.

Access to the links to attend the pre-bid meetings can be obtained by sending an email to bidbox@bel.com.bz. The subject of the email to attend pre-bid meetings and to submit Tenders should include the bid number and the name of the Tender located on the respective Bid forms.

For more information or queries, send email to

bidsubmittal@bel.com.bz Cost incurred for visiting the facilities to be maintained and preparation of the tender document are the responsibilities of the bidder. The lowest tender will not necessarily be accepted. BEL also reserves the right not to accept any tender.

28 NOV

2021

THE BELIZE TIMES

11

A FEW OF THE ACHIEVEMENTS THIS YEAR Signing of the Blue Bond

Hands on Human Development

Education reform Vaccine Diplomacy

Trade with Mexico

Improved relations with Guatemala

Capturing the World’s Attention at COP26

Smart and Reliable Infrastructure

Countering Crime Multisectorally Bringing Vaccines from Mexico

58 12

28 NOV

THE BELIZE TIMES 2021

VIRTUAL NATIONAL PARTY COUNCIL 2021 Prime Minister John Briceño

28 NOV

2021

28 NOV

2021

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18 JAN

THE BELIZE TIMES 2015

PUP 71ST ANNIVERSARY & 1YR SINCE HISTORIC WIN

GEORGE PRICE SERVICE AWARDS

Party Leader’s Award

Deputy Prime Minister Cordel Hyde

Hon. C.L.B. Rogers

For Outstanding Contribution and Service to our Nation and Party (posthumously accepted by his son)

BC Mayor Bernard Wagner

Party Chairman Henry Charles Usher

Representing all 8 PUP Mayors

Party Secretary General Linsford Castillo

14

THE BELIZE TIMES

Happy Birthday!

GREETING to the PUP

28 NOV

2021

28 NOV

15

THE BELIZE TIMES

2021

LIQUOR LICENSE NOTICES Notice is hereby given that Jia Chang Li is applying for a renewal of a Convenience Store Liquor License to be operated at “L & K Market” located in Caye Caulker, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Lingdie Tan is applying for a renewal of a Convenience Store Liquor License to be operated at “Letto Supermarket” located at # 64 Front Street, Caye Caulker, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Yujuan Wu/Junyi Zheng are applying for a renewal of a Convenience Store Liquor License to be operated at “Super Sky Company Ltd.” located on Avenida Longosta, Caye Caulker, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Leticia Robateau is applying for a renewal of 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 Ray Anthony Garnett is applying for a renewal of a Shop Liquor License to be operated at “R & M Snack Shop” located at # 76 Pleasant Lane, Mahogany Heights, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Jorge Jeovani Padilla is applying for a renewal of a Shop Liquor License to be operated at “Pokito Fast Food” located at # 6601 Police Street, Belize City, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Shuxian Su is applying for a renewal of a Shop Liquor License to be operated at “Blue Rainbow Shop” located at # 74 Cemetery Road, Belize City, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Irma Graciela Hernandez is applying for a renewal of a Beer Liquor License to be operated at “Gungulung’s Shop” located on Barbara Harris Street, Belize City, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Chi Rui Xin is applying for a renewal of a Convenience Store Liquor License to be operated at “A & G Shopping” located at # 29 Baymen Avenue, Belize City, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Christine Elizabeth Bizer is applying for a renewal of a Beer Liquor License to be operated at “Christine’s Lata Pat” located at # 1 Fort Street, Belize City, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Vinod Chawla & Manisha Chawla is applying for a renewal of a Publican General Liquor License to be operated at “Victor Foods Distributors Ltd.” located at Miles 4 Philip Goldson Highway, Belize City, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Huacheng Xu is applying for a Shop Liquor License to be operated at “Manta Store” located on Manta Ray Blvd., Ladyville, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Kent Lam is applying for a Hotel Liquor License to be operated at “Golden Tree Hotel” located at # 1740 Coney Drive, Belize City, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that George Ning is applying for a Malt & Cider Liquor License to be operated at “Siesta Inn” 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 Shun Yu Tan is applying for a Shop Liquor License to be operated at “Fortune Star Supermarket” located at # 253 Albert Hoy Avenue, Belize City, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Shun Yu Tan is applying for a Shop Liquor License to be operated at “Xing Star Supermarket” located on Albert Hoy Avenue, Belize City, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Zihuan Chen is applying for a Convenience Store Liquor License to be operated at “Qiang Lee” located at # 106 Freetown Road, Belize City, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

MINISTRY OF INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT AND HOUSING INVITATION TO BID HOTMIX PAVING OF SECTION OF PEREZ ROAD, PEREZ ROAD TO VISTA AT CONCRETE ENDS, ANGEL FISH TO RAINBOW RUNNER DRIVE AND SALT FISH TO TRIANGLE PARK AND ALSO BDF ARMY CAMP ROAD IN LADYVILLE VILLAGE, BELIZE DISTRICT. The Government of Belize via the Ministry of Infrastructure Development and Housing intends to pave with Hotmix section of Perez Road, Perez Road to Vista at Concrete Ends, Angel Fish to Rainbow Runner Drive and Salt fish to Triangle Park and also BDF Army Camp Road in Ladyville Village, Belize District.

The Ministry of Infrastructure Development and Housing now invites sealed bids from suitably qualified and experienced contractors for Hotmix Paving of the above-mentioned sections of roads in Ladyville, Belize District.

The scope of works will involve rehabilitating a total of 11,900 linear ft (3,1000 square yards) of Roadways with Hotmix paving (HMA) and will include the following: 1 Clean main road of all vegetation and deleterious materials and dispose of spoil within a 2 miles radius of project site.

2 Clean open channels / drains – 11,900 linear feet and dispose of spoil within a 2 miles radius of project site.

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Drainage improvement works (Provisional item) 3 Scarify, shape and compact road surface (31000 S.Y) as per crossfall on drawings.

4 Supply, transport, place and compact 6 inches of crushed All-In as per specifications.

5 Supply all equipment, materials and labour to apply 40 mm of approved Hotmix Asphalt covering a total street surface area of 31,000 S.Y. 6.

Construction and installation of concrete kerbs – 1000 L.F (Provisional Item) Bidders who are interested must have the necessary equipment and technical expertise and experience to complete the works in accordance with the Bidding Documents.

Bidding will be conducted through national competitive bidding procedures and interested bidders may obtain further information and inspect the bidding documents at the offices of Ministry of Infrastructure Development and Housing at the address below during normal office hours Monday through Fridays from 8.00 A.M – 12.00 Noon and from 1.00 PM – 4.00 PM. Bidding documents are free of charge and may be picked up by interested bidders on the submission of a written application to the address below.

All bids must be delivered to the address below by 10.00 AM local time on December 13, 2021 and they will be opened on the same day at 10.15 A.M, at the address below. Late bids will be rejected. A bid security of $10,000 must be submitted and delivered to the address below at the same time of the bid submission.

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Victor Espat 2. Lennox Bradley Chief Executive Officer Ministry of Infrastructure Development & Housing #1 Power Lane Belmopan, Belize Tel: 501-822-2136/39 Fax: 501-822-3282 E-mail: ceo.secretary@mow.gov.bz

Chief Engineer Ministry of Infrastructure Development & Housing #1 Power Lane Belmopan, Belize Tel: 501-822-2136/39 Fax: 501-822-3282 E-mail: chief.engineer@mow.gov.bz

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28 NOV

THE BELIZE TIMES

Port Loyola on the Move

By Hon. Gilroy Usher, Port Loyola Representative Three days after his return from medical treatment abroad on Wednesday 17th November Hon. Gilroy Usher, held a very successful clinic at the PUP Port Loyola Divisional office at #10 Gill St. near Excelsior High School.

The same day Hon. Usher also delivered a birthday gift for senior citizen Mr. Vincent Burgess.

2021

TENDER Consulting Services for Study to Improve the Resilience of Distribution Substations Belize Electricity Limited (BEL) is largely a transmission and distribution utility with 104,000 customer accounts, meeting a peak demand of approximately 102.7 MW (2020) through local Independent Power Producers (IPP), a Power Purchase Arrangement (PPA) with Comisión Federal de Electricidad (CFE) of Mexico and its own emergency backup generation. BEL also operates an off-grid power station with a diesel generation capacity of 2.4 MW that supplies the island of Caye Caulker.

Currently, over 85% of the population in Belize has access to electricity from BEL. BEL has allocated finances for a “Study to Improve the Resilience of Distribution Substations Control Buildings” countrywide. These finances are a part of the Company’s counterpart contribution under the Energy Resilience for Climate Adaptation Project (ERCAP) under Component 2 of the ERCAP portfolio, which focuses on “Demonstration Measures to Enhance Resilience of the Energy Sector”.

The objective of this Consultancy is to construct an engineering analysis of the structural integrity of BEL’s existing control buildings and how the effects of climate change such as increasing storm strengths can exacerbate its vulnerability. The Consultancy should provide general requirement of the substation control building to be used as a standard for the modelling of new control buildings. Additionally, the study should focus on the adequacy of the battery station with associated charger system and the possibility of an upgrade and relocation of the same to secure this equipment within areas not susceptible to flooding. The upgrade should consider any increase in the battery system capacity to ensure future viability of the battery system via sound engineering and analysis.

The Terms of Reference, which outline all the duties and responsibilities of the contract, and dates for submission are available on BEL’s website at www.bel.com.bz/Tenders.aspx An email submission must be received at bidsubmittal@bel.com.bz no later than 3:00 p.m. on Wednesday, December 1, 2021.

Proposals will be accepted by email only and should include the subject BID 2021-264 – Consulting Services for Study to Improve the Resilience of Distribution Substation.

For more information or queries, send email to bidboxrequest@bel.com.bz Cost incurred for preparation of the tender document is the sole responsibility of the bidder. The lowest or any tender will not necessarily be accepted.

NOTICE Notice is hereby given that the Companies listed below have been dissolved and duly struck off the IBC Register as follows: NAME OF COMPANY YELEX LTD. ORLANDO MARITIME LTD. BNK910 LTD. .

BRADLEY OFFSHORE INC. TALBOT CORPORATION

Date of Dissolution 2nd October, 2021 26th October, 2021 26th October, 2021 26th October, 2021 26th October, 2021

Morgan & Morgan Trust Corporation Belize Ltd.

28 NOV

2021

THE BELIZE TIMES

THINK ABOUT IT PRIME MINISTER SUPPORTS DPP Cheryl-Lynn Branker-Taitt, the Director of the Public Prosecutions, got a ringing endorsement from none other than the Prime Minister of Belize.

Appearing as a guest on a morning show on Wednesday 24th November Prime Minister John Briceño was asked a multitude of questions regarding important issues in the nation.

Asked what is his view regarding the DPP, the Prime Minister unhesitatingly responded that she enjoyed his full confidence and support.

Mrs. Cheryl-lynn is married to Assistant Commissioner of Police Marco Vidal who was quickly reassigned from commander of operations to a desk job. This followed the appearance of a drug plane on the Southern Highway in which eleven persons have been arrested.

Four of those persons are officers in Vidal’s Special Team. One of the four is his nephew.

Another of the four was assigned by ASP Vidal as the bodyguard of the DPP. A flawed decision which has now blown up the Facebook chatterers. Inevitably, the Facebook conspiracy theorists, bush lawyers, Sherlock Holmes et al, etc, etc, sprung into electronic action.

The DPP was caught in the cross fire.

The traditional media, more mature and a bit more responsible did ask if any could be the connections.

The Bar Association, which represents all lawyers in Belize, issued a public release fully supporting the DPP and decrying any attempts to smear the DPP or make unfounded remarks. The Bar pointed out the years of sterling service to Belize of Mrs. Vidal who is Belize’s most formidable and dedicated Director of Public Prosecutions. Her knowledge of the criminal law is next to none. Mrs. Vidal was twice elected as President of the Bar Association of Belize. She recently successfully prosecuted Danny Mason and his accomplices for beheading a pastor. She defeated their 5 lawyers.

Dickie Bradley, the attorney who successfully obtained bail from the Supreme Court on Tuesday for the police officers, in an impromptu interview by Plus TV and Love FM, gave his strong support to his legal rival and was full of praise for the DPP whom he described as having long transcended her role as DPP and should have already been appointed as a Judge of the Supreme Court. Attorney Arthur Saldivar who was part of the interview said he unhesitatingly endorsed the views expressed by Bradley.

And now Prime Minister Briceño on behalf of the Cabinet and new government made it clear that the DPP was held in high esteem.

DESTINY WAGNER WINS MISS EARTH Belizeans got a dose of good news over the weekend when their candidate Destiny Wagner captured the prestigious title of Miss Earth.

The major international pageant was held on Saturday with 87 countries competing for the crown. In the final question and answer segment it was Belize in the top four, with Destiny versus the USA, Chile and Thailand.

A few minutes after midnight Saturday, Hugh O’Brien broke the beautiful news on Breaking News feed. Everybody forgot about drug plane and coronavirus and focused on the coronation of Destiny Wagner as the Queen of the Earth.

Hugh O’Brien quoted Belize’s newest international ambassador as saying “I am happy to represent such a gorgeous country. I am overwhelmed right now with emotions. The words and the gratitude, is very hard to express. But I am thankful”.

O’Brien quotes her words earlier while still facing stiff competition. “Regardless of what happens tonight, I will always represent you (Belizeans and Belize) with pride and joy and advocate for our beautiful planet”.

Destiny expressed her appreciation to her team, and dedicated her performance to her best friend Jordan Perez, deceased.

This beauty and brains is now the special pride of Punta Gorda where she hails from.

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She is now also the pride and the joy of all Belizeans, especially as the first Belizean to win an international beauty contest.

Congratulations!

Minister Julius Espat may wish to build one of the popular low income houses for our Queen of the Earth and Deputy Prime Minister Cordel would gladly sign a land paper for Destiny Wagner.

UNEMPLOYMENT GOING DOWN Good news! More Belizeans are going back to work and are finding jobs to do.

Also, the economy is getting better, slowly but surely.

And the Covid figures are looking goodish.

The statistical experts have said that our economy grew by 15 percent. This is an amazing performance given the high price of oil on the international market and the shock waves from the Covid pandemic.

The experts at the Statistical Unit have also published their findings that unemployment has been on the decline. It was 13 percent last year. It is now 9 percent this year.

We need all the good news we can get. And these are two big good news.

We want to hear that the ongoing rise in the cost of living has been halted. And, that the cost is being pushed downwards, downwards.

The cost of living is too high in this country. Food and basic items must be affordable or these impressive statistics will mean very little.

Everybody fi eat ham and turkey this year, wid rice and beans or hudut or tamales.

HELL OF A BOOK That is the name of a new book written by Jason Mott. Last week, it won the US Foundation Awards. It is described as a masterful novel that broke new grounds.

“A structurally and conceptually daring examination of art. Which somehow manages the impossible trick of being playful, insightful and deeply moving all at the same time.”

Jason Mott has said his book ‘Hell Of A Book’ was also inspired by the spate of black killings at the hands of US police in recent. In his acceptance speech, he stated that the award is dedicated to the ones who….refuse to outgrow their imagination, refuse to the abandon their dreams, and refuse to deny, diminish their identity or their truth or their loves, unlike so many others.

Hey! Please find time fi read.

ANANSI HAVE WHA BABY Christmas di come.

You can feel it in this climate change atmosphere. Cool, chilly.

Jah sun struggles to peep through the thick grey clouds that clutter the morning sky.

The 25th December is 30 days away.

The thousands of cute little swallows have migrated from the coming winter cold up north to the warmth of the Central and South America countries. Needle-case or dragon flies seem to be under bird-Covid restriction. Hardly see them around and November is ending.

We have to enjoy this Christmas. We deserve a day off from all our stress and burdens.

Everyone should eat ham or turkey this Christmas, preferably ham and turkey with fry plantain and rice and beans. If we can afford potatoes salad, all the better.

The Christmas songs emerging on our radio and tv sets sound extra sweet. “Gee Whiz, It Christmas” by Carla Thomas “Am Dreaming of a White Christmas” by Otis Redding. “The Little Drummer Boy” by various artists. “Oh, Little Town of Bethlehem” “While Shepherds Watch Their Flocks by Night” and many others.

But the other classics are the local boom and Chime Christmas songs. Always a favorite is Cleveland Berry’s “GOOD MAWNIN MISS LADY” in which he sings, Anansi have wha baby, ie hide ah ina long grass, busy bee was passing and sting ah pan ih boom, boom.

Christmas di come.

And let’s remember to put Christ back ina Christmas.

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28 NOV

THE BELIZE TIMES

2021

PUBLICAUCTIONSALES: PROPERTIES & VEHICLES Cayo, Belize, Stann Creek, Orange Walk and Toledo Districts

BY ORDER of the Mortgagees Licensed Auctioneers Kevin A. Castillo and Christiana R. Castillo are selling ONLINE via belizepropertyauctions.com the below described properties and vehicles. Sale currently running and will expire on Monday 6th, Tuesday 7th & Wednesday 8th December 2021 at the times listed on the website: N.B. Properties and vehicles will remain on sale on this website on a bi-weekly basis until conclusion.

1. Parcel No. 2911 Cedar Street, Santiago Juan Layout, San Ignacio, Cayo District: REGISTRATION SECTION

BLOCK

PARCEL

San Ignacio North

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2911

The freehold property of Ms. Adelita Zaiden

2. Parcel No. 788 “Little Orange Walk” formerly Melhado Estate, Mount Pleasant, Cayo District:

11. Lot No. 1 along Pappishaw Road, Eldridgeville Village, Toledo District: ALL THAT piece or parcel of land being Lot No. 1 containing 1,381.029 square meters situate along Pappishaw Road, Eldridgeville Village, Toledo District, the freehold property of Mr. Ronald Lee Baker.

12. Parcels Nos. 10075 & 10076 Santa Rita Area, North Ambergris Caye, Belize District:

REGISTRATION SECTION

BLOCK

PARCEL

REGISTRATION SECTION

BLOCK

PARCEL

Mount Pleasant

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788

San Pedro

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10075 & 10076

The freehold property of Mr. Leopold Suarez

The freehold properties of Messrs. Legacy Group Limited

Parcel No. 418 Corner 3rd Avenue & 5th Street North, Corozal Town, Corozal District:

13. No. 300 Vista Del Mar, Ladyville, Belize District, Belize:

REGISTRATION SECTION

BLOCK

PARCEL

REGISTRATION SECTION

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PARCEL

Corozal Central

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418

Vista Del Mar

16

300

The freehold property of Mrs. Guadalupe & Mr. Edmund Longsworth

4. Unit No. 601 Renaissance Tower, No. 8 Newtown Barracks, Belize City, Belize District:

The freehold property of Ms. Karina Kuylen

14. No. 315 San Estevan Village, Orange Walk District: REGISTRATION SECTION

BLOCK

PARCEL

San Estevan

1

315

The freehold property of Mr. Augusto Angel Blanco.

REGISTRATION SECTION

BLOCK

PARCEL

Kings Park

45

946/H30

Freehold property

5. Parcel No. 461 George Price Highway, Unitedville, Cayo District:

REGISTRATION SECTION

BLOCK

PARCEL

Society Hall

24

461

The freehold property of Mr. Ulric L. Willoughby

6. Lot No. 59A Pomona Village Extension, Stann Creek District:

Lot No. 59A, comprising 696.567 square metres situate in Pomona Village Extension, Stann Creek District, Belize. Freehold property of Mr. Thurman Williams.

7. Parcel No. 1609 Moho Bay Area, Belize City: REGISTRATION SECTION

BLOCK

PARCEL

Caribbean Shores

16

1609

Freehold Property

15. Parcel No. 1523 Seine Bight Village, Placencia Peninsula, Stann Creek District: REGISTRATION SECTION

BLOCK

PARCEL

Placencia North

36

1523

The freehold property of Ms. Sherlette Augustine

16. Parcel No. 2125 Breadnut Street, Belama Phase 2, Belize City, Belize District: REGISTRATION SECTION

BLOCK

PARCEL

Caribbean Shores

16

2125

The freehold property of Mr. Arleigh Gough & Ms. Olga Urbina

17. Parcel No. 4111 Blue Bird Street, Alta Mira, Corozal District: REGISTRATION SECTION

BLOCK

PARCEL

Corozal North

4

4111

The freehold property of Mr. Raleigh Rivas and Ms. Olga Rivas)

18. Parcel No. 1142 Phillip Goldson Highway, San Jose Palmar, Orange Walk District: REGISTRATION SECTION

BLOCK

PARCEL

Corozal North

4

4111

The freehold property of Mr. Raleigh Rivas and Ms. Olga Rivas)

8. Parcel No. 410 Seine Bight Village, Placencia Peninsula, Stann Creek District: REGISTRATION SECTION

BLOCK

PARCEL

Placenia North

36

410

The freehold property of Mr. Kent Roland Francis and Ms. Silvana Andrea Garcia

9. Parcel No. 2275 Seine Bight Village, Placencia Peninsula, Stann Creek District: REGISTRATION SECTION

BLOCK

PARCEL

Placenia North

36

2275

The freehold property of Mr. Lammey Alvarez.

REGISTRATION SECTION

BLOCK

PARCEL

Orange Walk Town

4

2708

The freehold property of Mr. Gustavo Gongora & Ms. Rubicela Mai

20. Corner Kiskadee Street and San Lorenzo Road, Orange Walk Town, Orange Walk DisREGISTRATION SECTION

BLOCK

PARCEL

Orange Walk Town

4

4096

The freehold property of Mr. Marlo Perrera & Ms. Dianelli Perrera

10. Parcel No. 1710 Mahogany Street, Punta Gorda Town, Toledo District: REGISTRATION SECTION

BLOCK

PARCEL

Punta Gorda

4

1710

The freehold property of Ms. Elizabeth Borland

19. Parcel No. 2708 Phillip Goldson Highway, Orange Walk Town, Orange Walk District:

21. Parcel No. 466 West Canal Street, Belize City: REGISTRATION SECTION

BLOCK

PARCEL

Albert/Mesop

15

466

The freehold property of Messrs. Perez Hardware Store/Mr. Orlando Perez

Continued on page 19

28 NOV

19

THE BELIZE TIMES

2021

Continued from page 18 32. Parcels Nos. 21, 42 & 280 Libertad Registration Section, Corozal District:

22. Parcel No. 158 Sunset Park, 8 ½ Miles George Price Hwy, Western Paradise, Belize District: ALL THAT piece or parcel of land being Lot No. 158 containing 1,013.39 S.M. situate at Mile 8.5 Northern Side of Hector Creek Road, Western Highway, Belize District of Belize, the freehold property of Mr. Lawrence Ellis and Mrs. Kimberly Ellis)

BLOCK

PARCEL

Placencia North

36

2842

BLOCK

PARCEL

Libertad

4

21, 42 & 280

The freehold properties of Mr. Leonard Folgarait

33. 200.35 Acres Eastern Side Southern Lagoon, Manatee Area, Belize District:

23. Parcel No. 2842 first subdivision south of Placencia Airstrip, Placencia Village, Stann Creek District: REGISTRATION SECTION

REGISTRATION SECTION

ALL THAT piece or parcel of land containing 200.35 acres situate along the eastern side of Southern Lagoon and 3 ¼ miles north of Gales Point, Manatee Village, Belize District, Belize, the freehold property of Mr. Arnaldo Pena.

The freehold property of Mr. Ajinder Singh Garcha

34. Parcel No. 1835 San Diego Street, Hillview Area, Santa Elena, Cayo District:

24. Parcel No. 1824 Corner Jamaica and Mejiba Streets, Orange Walk Town, Orange Walk District:

REGISTRATION SECTION

BLOCK

PARCEL

REGISTRATION SECTION

BLOCK

PARCEL

Santa Elena/Cayo

23

1835

Orange Walk Town

4

1824

The freehold property of Mr. Rosendo Juarez.

The Freehold property of Mr. Mark Nugent

35. Lot No. 13 Santa Cruz Village, Stann Creek District:

25. Parcel No. 1080 Pucte Villas Subdivision, near Mile 56 ½ west Phillip Goldson Hwy, Orange Walk District: REGISTRATION SECTION

BLOCK

PARCEL

Ann Gabourel

4

1080

All that piece of land containing 836.013 square meters being Lot No. 13 situate in Santa Cruz Village, Stann Creek District TOGETHER with all buildings and erections standing and being thereon. The freehold property of Mr. Jose O. Raudaules & Ms. Rixy G. Ramirez.

36. Parcels 1682, 1683 and 1684 Linda Vista Estate, off George Price Highway, Belize City, Belize:

The Freehold property of Mr. Marlo Perrera

26. Parcel No. 1726 Guinea Grass Village, Orange Walk District: REGISTRATION SECTION

BLOCK

PARCEL

Tower Hill

4

1726

PARCEL

San Estevan

1

639 & 640

The freehold property of Mr. Manuel Jesus Blanco and Mr. Agusto Blanco)

28. Parcel No. 853 San Jose Drive, San Jose Palmar, Orange Walk District: REGISTRATION SECTION

BLOCK

PARCEL

San Jose Palmar

4

853

PARCEL

45

1682, 1683 & 1684

37. No. 1 Cor. Talawalla & Edwin Park Streets, Lord’s Bank Village, Belize District:

27. Parcels Nos. 639 &640 San Estevan, Orange Walk District: BLOCK

BLOCK

St. Martin de Porres West

The freehold property of Mrs. Marissa Sosa & Mr. Godfrey Sosa.

The freehold property of Ms. Gloricelda Camara

REGISTRATION SECTION

REGISTRATION SECTION

REGISTRATION SECTION

BLOCK

PARCEL

Ladyville/Lords Bank

16

3806

The freehold property of Mr. Kevin Enriquez & Mrs. Andrea Enriquez

VEHICLES: 2019 Great Wall Wingle 6

2019 Geat Wall Wingle 5

1999 MCI 1 Door Bus

1999 Blue Bird Bus

2016 Volkswagen Amarok

The freehold property of Mr. Freddy Orlando Tun

29. Parcel No. 2770 Trial Farm Village, Orange Walk District: REGISTRATION SECTION

BLOCK

PARCEL

San Pedro

7

12333

The freehold property of Mr. Nestor Adraino Vasquez

30. Parcel No. 16/1 San Estevan Village, Orange Walk District: REGISTRATION SECTION

BLOCK

PARCEL

San Estevan

4

16/1

The leasehold property of Ms. Irma Olivera

31. Parcel No. 244 Caledonia Village, Corozal District: REGISTRATION SECTION

BLOCK

PARCEL

Caledonia Village

1

244

The freehold property of Messrs. Chico’s Company Limited

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

LIQUOR LICENSE NOTICES

Notice is hereby given that R.C. Imports Ltd. is applying for a renewal of a Publican General Liquor License to be operated at “R.C. Imports Ltd.” located at 9 ½ Miles Philip Goldson Highway, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Trecia Flores is applying for a renewal of a Restaurant Liquor License to be operated at “Mosul Street Cool Spot Hideaway” located # 65 Cemetery Road, Belize City, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Sandra Eliesen is applying for a renewal of a Beer Liquor License to be operated at “S & R Variety Store” located at # 70 Racoon Street, Belize City, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that R.C. Imports Ltd. is applying for a renewal of a Publican General Liquor License to be operated at “R.C. Imports Ltd.” located at 3 ½ Miles Philip Goldson Highway, Belize City, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Yan Xia Chen is applying for a Shop Liquor License to be operated at “Yan Chen Store” located at # 288 Scissors Tail, Ladyville Village, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Everett Foster is applying for a Restaurant Liquor License to be operated at “Raynbow Splash” located in Forest Home Village, Toledo District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Ruby Estell is applying for a Malt & Cider Liquor License to be operated at “Spider Web Food & Snacks” located in Ladyville Village, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

20

28 NOV

THE BELIZE TIMES

2021

UNITED WOMENS GROUP November 24, 2021 The United Women’s Group calls for Zero Tolerance for Violence Against Women and Girls. As the nation gets ready this week to launch this year’s 16 Days of Activism Against Gender Based Violence, the news report of another violent attack against a woman and her daughter is a stark, gruesome reminder of the grave problem of gender violence.

The lives of thirty-three-year-old Jennifer Archilla and her daughter, twelve-year-old Nitzia Catzim were viciously taken away through multiple stab wounds allegedly by Jennifer’s partner who is the main suspect the police department is focused on.

Equally disturbing are the various news reports that there is a history of domestic abuse. Domestic violence, intimate partner violence often has a pattern that has signs of abuse over time.

Domestic violence and abuse against women and girls continue

to occur at an alarmingly increasing rate in the country. The UWG strongly condemns all acts of violence and discrimination against women and girls.

The UWG calls on all political, religious, educational, community, business leaders and all Belizeans to take a ZERO tolerance approach to violence against women and girls. We further call on the police department to enhance law enforcement and community policing in the interventions needed to combat these crimes and improve the reporting mechanisms in place for improved monitoring and management.

The UWG continues to advocate for and lobby with the Government of Belize for stronger policies, improved legislation, improved monitoring and increased education and awareness on gender-based violence, sexual harassment, and all forms of violence against our women and children.

Let’s spread awareness and end the silence! ZERO tolerance to violence against our women and children.

TRAGEDY: Mother Jennifer Anchilla And Daughter Nitzia Catzim On Thursday November 25th, 16 days of activism against gender based violence (GBV) kicks off under the theme: YOU AND ME, From 16 days to 365: END VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN NOW. Sadly, just four days before the 16 days of activism against GBV got underway a mother and her 12 year old daughter were murdered allegedly by the hands of a man she knew intimately.

The alleged murder happened late Sunday evening November 21 in the Santiago Juan layout, Cayo district. According to reports following a domestic dispute between the couple, Brian Castillo (28) and Jennifer Michelle Anchilla (33) her body was discovered with several fatal cut wounds to the body. Her daughter who is Castillo’s step daughter Nitzia Catzim (12) was also fatally injured and died while receiving treatment. Police believe Castillo used a kitchen knife to fatally wound both victims.

Castillo then fled the scene on his motorcycle and took his young son

GOVERNMENT OF BELIZE MINISTRY OF FINANCE, ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT, AND INVESTMENT BELIZE INTEGRAL SECURITY PROGRAMME (BISP) INVITATION TO QUOTE No CABEI-G-003-2147/2021 The Ministry of Finance, Economic Development, and Investment acting through the Belize Integral Security Programme (BISP), funded by the Central American Bank for Economic Integration (CABEI) has allocated funds towards the cost of supply and delivery of Laboratory Equipment.

The Ministry now extends an invitation to Suppliers to tender for the below listed items:

GOODS

QUANTITY

Exhibit Storage Refrigerator

1

Portable Fourier Transform Infrared Spectrometer

1

Interested bidders may obtain a complete set of bidding documents inclusive of Specifications free of cost through written request to the below physical address or via electronic mail (email) to projectcoordinator.bisp@med.gov.bz or you can visit the Ministry of Economic Development’s webpage, www.med.gov.bz to download the bidding documents. Additionally, the Invitation to Quote can be found on the Belize Procurement Notice Board’s webpage https://blz-cppnb. caricom.org/epps/home.do Deadline for submission of sealed bids is Monday November 29th, 2021, at 10:00 a.m., via direct mail or hand delivered to the address indicated below.

Electronic Bidding will not be Permitted, and Late submissions will be rejected.

with him. News of the son being found was first as police had moved quickly and notified police in Guatemala. Later they detained Castillo in San Benito, Peten. He has since been returned to Belize where he was arraigned in front of Magistrate Janelle Villanueva. Castillo was charged with two counts of murder and no plea taken. He has been remanded until March 15th, 2022.

Project Coordinator Belize Integral Security Programme (BISP) Programme Executing Unit 1904 Constitution Drive 2nd Floor, Unit #3 Belmopan City, Belize C.A. Ref: Invitation to Quote Supply and Delivery of Laboratory Equipment (CABEI-G-003-2147/2021)

21 “16 Days of Activism NWC Launch”

28 NOV

THE BELIZE TIMES

2021

Remarks by Her Excellency Rossana Briceño November 25th, 2021

Ministers, colleagues, and partners, invited guests and members of the press: It is an honor to join you today to commemorate the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women and to help launch the annual 16 Days of Activism Against Gender- Based Violence. I thank the National Women’s Commission, the Ministry of Human Development, Families and Indigenous People’s Affairs and all our partners for this tremendous joint effort and their leadership in the fight to protect women and girls in Belize!

Before I continue, please join me in a moment of silence as we honor the memories of those we lost at the hands of an abuser… It is all too sad an observation that for as many years (in recent memory) we have been hit with the shocking news of a tragic and brutal slaying of one of our Belizean women – often in the middle of our commemoration of this time. Earlier this year in August, we lost Police Officer Arilee Young and her 17-year-old daughter at the hands of her security guard domestic partner. Also, in August, we witnessed an estranged spouse announce on a local television programme that he was going to seek vengeance for the emotional hurt he experienced from his female partner. He continued to beat the estranged female spouse, her sister and her mother. Her mother succumbed to the brutal beating … 64 year old Angela Garcia Flores. Just days ago, we lost another mother and daughter… this time 33 year old Jennifer Archilla and her 12 year old. Join me as we pause for a minute in quiet prayer for our women, our girls… PAUSE….

Thank You This year commemorates 30 years of this global campaign. It is customary that we convene at this time of year to amplify the voices of survivors, to renew our commitment and response for prevention, and to scale up interventions geared towards promotion and protection of the rights of women and children. But, we have to reflect that the past couple years have been especially challenging.

With the onset of COVID-19 and the subsequent lockdowns and restrictions, the data and reports from those on the frontlines have established that violence against women and girls, particularly domestic violence, intensified tremendously during this period… 2020 and this year 2021. Belize is not alone in this observation… globally the data has been so pointed that a new moniker emerged. The UN Secretary General coined it a “shadow pandemic”. Women and children were locked away under state of emergencies and locked downs with their abusers; there was no escape. access to services was constrained. The economic reliance on an abuser was more pronounced.

Women could not escape to the workplace

and the abuser was either unemployed or forced to work from home. There was no escaping the abuser or the situation.

Data shows that the pandemic impacted women and girls, children, even more pronounced. The situation was even grimmer for women and girls of lower socio-economic strata. The socio-economic and cultural pressures exacerbated the situation of our most vulnerable women and children. The world’s reliance on virtual means of communication and engagement created virtual prisons.

Our young generations were forced to interact more online in this virtual internet world becoming more vulnerable to cyber harassment and cyber bullying. Young girls felt the pressures and experienced the hurt vulnerable to these ever multiplying online threats. This has placed a new demand for education to address this new phenomenon.

Our world today is digital. Our children’s education has become more digital. Their social interactions feature so heavily these cyber world and online engagements. These are seemingly arm’s length but there is nothing arm’s length about the negative impacts.

There is nothing virtual about the hurt, the body shaming, the bullying, the name calling, the sexual harassment and the abuse that confronts them on these cyber platforms.

We hear them collecting the friends, likes, followers, these friendly sounding engagements but there is nothing friendly about them. The pressures to amass these “cyber engagements” and the negative interactions plaguing our young girls and youth is nothing “nice”. The exposure presents huge risks for depression, emotional hurts and negative mental health impacts. And Yes, it is a form of violence. It is gender based violenc because once again our women and girls are more vulnerable to these cyber-attacks.

How do we combat these many forms of violence plaguing our women and girls?

How do we respond? Where do we start?

UN WOMEN notes the need for societies, nations to aim towards rebuilding, repositioning for resilience, a more gender equal society.

It is time for bold prioritization and for us to accelerate joint efforts in response to gender-based violence in the context of COVID-19 and our cyber-age. We have seen our response ramp up and change forms to address the new emerging threats. The Government of Belize and the National Women’s Commission, through partnership with UN agencies, have adopted significant measures to strengthen essential services for survivors, and to integrate prevention and response to violence against women and girls into national plans, and innovative community outreach directed at our young people,

incorporating our families.

The current implementation of the Spotlight Initiative in Belize has utilized innovative approaches joining education, outreach and sensitization with community based mobilization. Spotlight has uniquely utilized programmes where the young lead the young. The young people create positive engagement and with the guidance of community and gender organizations, the education on issues of family violence, gender violence and children and women’s rights have reached out to families and communities.

We have also seen numerous governmental, non-governmental organizations and extraordinary Belizeans working tirelessly with unwavering commitment to innovate, reform programmes and policies while strengthening social assistances and services geared towards survivors of violence and families. These efforts are commendable, and must be applauded; but I am sure we will all agree that we are still not yet where we need to be.

Individual and collective ownership are important in this fight. These laws, policies, outreach, sensitization, education, and awareness-building must have the commitment and participation of all. Concerted action of all Belizeans, at every level and in every sector is necessary. This is not only a government struggle, this is not only a NGO civil society struggle, this is not only a church struggle, and this is not ONLY a woman thing. This is a WE-thing. We all must see ourselves as having a role to play: at the individual, at the family, at the community, at the governance level, at the private sector and business level, at the collective level, and at the Belize level.

Individual and community ownership is critical to ensure that words translate to action, and action to change. This is why I am particularly pleased with this year’s theme, Me & You – From 16 Days to 365: End Violence against Women. It fittingly describes how we should address the issue of violence against women and children.

Violence against women does not happen in a vacuum - the multiple forms of gender discrimination from the seemingly benign cat-calling of men to women and young girls as they walk the streets to the overtly tragic violent killings. We know what it is. We see it but we have turned a blind eye for too long. We have said for too long it is a woman thing and that dah man and woman thing.

No, it is a WE-thing. It is a national societal thing. We have seen its ugly impacts.

Our responses must be seamlessly and intrinsically woven in our way of life… we need systems and mechanisms where everyone -- every adult & every child -- is

equipped with information and skills to unabashedly recognize the violence and violent tendencies and respond confidently, fearlessly but appropriately. This takes education at all levels, awareness building, and easily accessible and appropriate resources to support victims, families, coworkers, and friends.

We must miss no opportunity for advocacy, awareness and education aimed at building capacity of every Belizean. Every victim who approaches someone about their experience MUST be heard, believed, and helped no matter where they turned for that help. Every family member, coworker or friend who thinks or knows of someone being abused MUST know how to respond.

There is no place off-limits to have this conversation: in Government; in Civil Society; in the private sector; in the workplace; at church and community groups. We are all responsible for taking action. The onus is not on the victim or the job of any one agency.

I resolve that my Office will participate and sustain initiatives that contribute to this end with the support of and in partnership with the wider development community – not only for these 16 days, but for the next 365 days. Some of our initiatives include: • Partnering with the National Women’s Commission to designate the 25th of each month as a day to raise awareness and galvanize support to strengthen community and national work around violence against women and girls • Partnering with the Ministry of Human Development, Families & indigenous People’s Affairs to increase, expand and strengthen existing gender-based training within the Government to ensure gender perspectives are incorporated into policies and programs • Partner with the National Women’s Commission, the Women’s and Family Support Department and the Ministry of Human Development, Families & Indigenous People’s Affairs to conduct country wide community sessions on gender-based violence to bring awareness, sensitization of and to dismantle the socially constructed norms and ideologies that determine behaviors and actions of men and women and legitimize gender-based violence.

• Partner with the Ministry of Education, Culture, Science & Technology to strengthen the HFLE and Life Skills Curriculums to build more gender-equal schools and communities.

• Partner with the National Commission for Families and Children in developing and executing advocacy and educational campaigns aimed at supporting and engaging the family as the primary partner in ending gender-based violence • Highlighting Belizean women who are making quiet but salient efforts to bring awareness, protection and assistance to women and girls among other activities So, as we come together today to mark this year’s 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence, let us focus our attention and efforts on concrete actions that we can all do for the next 365 days as individuals, as a family, as a community and as a nation to create a society, a Belize that is safe and secure for women and children.

Ending gender-based violence is our shared responsibility. We all have a role to play.

I count on your continued support in raising awareness, and I look forward to this year’s campaign, renewing efforts and partnerships to stop the escalation of violence and deaths. We must recover and rebuild for a stronger, more inclusive and gender-equal Belize. Thank-You.

22

28 NOV

THE BELIZE TIMES

SPORTS SNIPPETS

GG wins vs Yo Creek in OWFA 1st division November 19

Miguel Yco scored a hat-trick to lead Guinea Grass FC to a 72 win over Yo Creek La Ceiba when the Orange Walk Football Association’s 1st Division competition kicked off at the Louisiana Field last Friday. Francisco Rivas added 2 goals, Charles Tillett and Leomar Narvallez tallied a goal apiece.

Camilo Sanchez scored 9 goals in Caribbean Rum Boyz 11-0 walk-over of San Francisco FC on Sunday. Andir Chi and Irvin Osorio added 1 goal each.

Axel Alamilla scored 2 goals in San Antono’s 4-2 win vs San Felipe FC on Saturday night.

Other results: San Jose Pumas FC 1-1 Louisiana FC; Carmelita FC 2-1 Galacticos.

Verdes Rebels win 9-0 Sugar Girls in NAWL Orange Walk Town - November 21

Shanay Nasario scored 4 goals in the Rebels Girls’ 3rd win: 9-0 over the Juventus Sugar City girls in National Amateur Women’s League football at the Louisiana Field on Sunday.

Shannel Gentle scored 2 goals, and Cynthia Montalvan, Shantel Robinson and Kimberly Perez scored a goal apiece.

Jewel Fury’s Jayda Brown now leads the NAWL with 11 goals, after she scored 5 goals for their 6-1 win over Kulcha United at the Carl Ramos Stadium. Janivi Quiroz added 1 goal. Shayama Caliz tallied Kulcha’s only goal Kaite Jones scored a hat trick to lead Rumberas to a 7-1 win over Stann Creek Hyper Jewels.

San Pedro Pirates FC 4-0 Cayo Dreamers.

Sagitun Girlz FC 5-0 Hyper Phoenix Christopher Broaster & Irene Thiessen win Belmopan D’Feet Diabetes 10K November 21

Christopher Broaster and Irene Thiessen won the D’Feet Diabetes 10K run in 42:49.30 and 51:27.6 respectively, organized

by Belmopan Mayor Sheran Palacio on Sunday. Jaheim Moguel won the 5K in 20:05.3.

2021

GOVERNMENT OF BELIZE MINISTRY OF FINANCE, ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT, AND INVESTMENT BELIZE INTEGRAL SECURITY PROGRAMME (BISP) INVITATION TO QUOTE No: CABEI-G-006-2147/2021 The Ministry of Finance, Economic Development, and Investment acting through the Belize Integral Security Programme (BISP), funded by the Central American Bank for Economic Integration (CABEI) has allocated funds towards the cost of supply and delivery of Office Furniture.

The Ministry now extends an invitation to Suppliers to tender for the below listed items:

GOODS

Conference Table Conference Chairs Office Chairs Executive Chairs Waiting Chairs with Arm Rest Office Desk Office Desk (L-Shape) Workstation Legal 4 Drawer Filing Cabinet Legal 2 Drawer Filing Cabinet Lateral 2 Drawer Filing Cabinet Metal Standing Shelf 4-Seater Dining Table with Chairs

QUANTITY 1 10 6 1 6 1 1 1 3 1 1 2 1

Interested bidders may obtain a complete set of bidding documents inclusive of Specifications free of cost through written request to the below physical address or via electronic mail (email) to projectcoordinator.bisp@med.gov. bz or you can visit the Ministry of Economic Development’s webpage, www. med.gov.bz to download the bidding documents. Additionally, the Invitation to Quote can be found on the Belize Procurement Notice Board’s webpage https://blz-cppnb.caricom.org/epps/home.do Deadline for submission of sealed bids is Monday December 13th, 2021, at 10:00 a.m., via direct mail or hand delivered to the address indicated below: Project Coordinator Belize Integral Security Programme (BISP) Project Executing Unit 1904 Constitution Drive, 2nd Floor, Unit #3 Belmopan City, Belize C.A. Ref: Invitation to Quote Supply and Delivery of Office Furniture (CABEI-G-006-2021/2147) Electronic Bidding will not be Permitted, and Late submissions will be rejected.

14 2021

28 NOV

THE BELIZE TIMES

23 2021

14 NOV

SPECIFIC PROCUREMENT NOTICE RRB.CS.41 - CIVIL ENGINEER Project Background: The Government of Belize (GOB), with �inancing from the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) and the Green Climate Fund, has embarked on a six-year Programme, Resilient Rural Belize (RRB), which aims to minimize the impacts of climatic and economic events on smallholder farmers while supporting sustainable market access for their produce. The Programme will help farmers employ climate resilient agricultural practices and technologies; integrate pro�itable smallholder participation into the development of select vegetable, fruit, and honey value chains; and support smallholder production capacity through investments in public and private climate resilient infrastructure and in the strengthening of small holder farmer Producers Organizations and relevant GOB Departments.

•

•

Scope of Service: Under the direct supervision of the Engineering Coordinator at the Ministry of Infrastructure Development & Housing (MIDH) - Project Execution Unit, the Civil Engineer will be responsible for the overall design, supervision, and management of the infrastructure investment related activities under the Climate Resilient Rural Infrastructure (CRRIA) component of the Resilient Rural Belize Programme. All design and implementation aspects of the project will be executed in accordance with the Programme Implementation Manual (PIM), and standard design manuals and procedures for the implementation and supervsion of civil works.

• • •

Duties and Responsibilities: The following are the responsibilities of the Civil Engineer: • •

• •

•

•

• •

• •

•

•

•

Assist MIDH – PEU and the RRB with the preparation of the Annual Work Plan and Budget for the CRRIA Component.

Plan and lead the identi�ication activities of the remaining sites to be developed (if any) and support PMU’s activities aiming at informing and sensitizing rural communities about eligibility criteria, selection procedure and planned construction works; Assist MIDH – Project Execution Unit with the engineering designs for rural roads identi�ied under the programme, including drawings, technical speci�ications, Bill of Quantities and cost estimates.

Assist RRB with the preparation of Terms of Reference and bidding documents for works identi�ied under Matching Grant Fund Agreements.

Arrange for the independent review of designs (if required) and Environmental and Social Impact Assessments (ESIA) from relevant institutions as per the legislation of Belize, so as to mitigate all social and environmental impacts re�lected in the design.

Take part in the bidding process of project infrastructure activities by: contributing to the preparation of bidding documents (including BoQs and cost estimates), tendering of works, providing clari�ications to bidders, technical and �inancial evaluation of bids and recommendation for the award of contracts for the Programme Oversight Committee (POC) review and approval.

Before infrastructure works begin, verify and approve the project implementation plan presented by the construction contractor.

Ensure that all necessary Insurances, Advance Payment and Performance securities and/or guarantees are in place and updated as required by Contractors who are awarded contracts for infrastructure works including road rehabilitation.

Supervise the implementation of works and monitor compliance with the contract speci�ications, implementation plans and timeframe to ensure that planned time, cost and quality are adhered to.

Monitor and ensure compliance to execute the design and construction supervision in an economic, �inancial, administrative, and technically ef�icient manner and in accordance with the procurement procedures of IFAD and in compliance with GCF’s Social, Environment, and ]Climate Assessment Procedures (SECAP).

Monitor compliance with provisions in the Environmental and Social Management Report (ESMR), Environmental and Social Management Plan (ESMP) and any plans that may be established pursuant to said ESMR and ESMP, and enforce these provisions as needed.

Identify contractors’ lack of performance and lack of compliance with the contracts, and provide timely guidance on adequate remedial measures to resolve work de�iciencies. If needed, the civil engineer, in consultation with the PM, shall issue variation orders and site instructions in accordance with the Conditions of Contract; Provide the PMU with a monthly progress report on the execution of the civil works, in particular on: i) Percentage of work completion without defects; ii) Financial matters, including actions or measures taken by the

• •

construction contractors that may have an impact on cost; iii) Contractors’ lack of performance and lack of compliance issues and eventual remedial measures and solutions recommended; iv) Any other relevant information.

Upon completion of the construction works: i) Carry out inspections and prepare snag lists; ii) Monitor the completion of the snags within a stipulated time frame; iii) Supervise commissioning and testing; iv) Assist the PMU in preparing the provisional acceptance of works, and compile �inal report and detailed account and as-built documentation (drawings, manuals, etc.).

Prior to the end of the defects liability period: i) Visit the sites and inspect the works for any defects; ii) If needed, instruct the works contractor to attend to the defects and monitor the remedial works; iii) Prepare the �inal account; and iv) Prepare the Final Completion Certi�icate.

Coordinate periodic infrastructure maintenance planning with the relevant actors (e.g. MIDH, Community Organizations, etc.) and supervise infrastructure maintenance activities.

Provide relevant support and training to bene�iciaries in terms of Infrastructure Maintenance.

Provide support to the Procurement Of�icer in the management for all contracts for works procured by the PMU and for the implementation of the CRRIA component, including approvals of contractors’ submittals (Interim Payment Certi�icates, Variation Orders, Completion Certi�icates, etc.) and noti�ications to the contractors (defects, Liquidated Damages, etc.) and any other issues as speci�ied in the general and special conditions of contract.

Assist the PMU in developing, monitoring and evaluation of potential partnership agreements necessary for infrastructure development; Assist the PMU in the preparation and organization of the project implementation support missions, supervision missions and mid-term review mission, and implement missions recommendations and agreed actions related to infrastructure components;

Academic Quali�ication and General Experience: The Civil Engineer must possess.

• •

A minimum of a BSc. in Civil Engineering or related �ield.

A minimum of �ive (5) years’ experience in civil engineering works.

Speci�ic Experience: The Civil Engineer must possess:

• A minimum of three (3) years’ working experience with projects for infrastructure rehabilitation (roads, bridges, drainage, etc.). Experience with projects funded by an international funding agency would be an advantage.

• A minimum of three (3) years’ experience in engineering design, design review, construction supervision and its related requirements.

Reporting: The Civil Engineer will work closely with the Hydraulic Engineer of the Resilient Rural Belize and other Programme Management Unit staff but will report directly to the Engineering Coordinator at the Ministry of Infrastructure Development & Housing – Project Execution Unit. The duty station for the position will be at the Ministry of Infrastructure Development & Housing in Belmopan.

Clari�ications: Any request for clari�ication should be sent via e-mail to the address below no later than December 3, 2021, at 3:00pm. The client will provide responses to all clari�ication requests by December 6, 2021 at 3:00pm.

Resilient Rural Belize Programme Attn: Nadia Vernon Procurement Of�icer National Agriculture Showgrounds Hummingbird Highway, Belmopan City Email: Nvernon.rrb@med.gov.bz

Application Submission: Interested candidates are requested to submit ONE PDF FILE that shall include a Letter of Interest, Curriculum Vitae, and two (2) recommendation letters along with a copy of the highest degree. The deadline to submit applications is December 9, 2021, at 10:00a.m. via the following File Request Link: h�ps://bit. ly/3Fk6O3K (Note: No application submitted via email will be accepted) A consultant will be selected in accordance with the individual consultant selection (ICS) method set out in IFAD’ Project Procurement Handbook that can be accessed via the IFAD website at www.ifad.org/project-procurement.

Interviews will be conducted as part of the selection process.

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THE TIMES THE BELIZE BELIZE TIMES

5 SEP 28 NOV

2021 2021