Belize Times September 13, 2020- RT. Hon Said Musa Retires

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The Belize Times

13 SEP

THE BELIZE TIMES

APP

2020

Established 1957

13 SEPTEMBER 2020 | ISSUE NO: 5215

The Truth Shall Make You Free

RT. HON. SAID MUSA RETIRES

www.belizetimes.biz | $1.00

FROM FARM TO TABLE Food Security and more

On his own terms, as promised, the Rt. Hon. Said Musa has decided to step aside as Standard Bearer for the Fort George Division. In a letter to his constituents of thirty-six years, the Rt. Hon. Musa was clear in his intentions to “make way for a young competent leader to be selected as the PUP candidate to contest and with your support, deliver another victory in the Fort George constituency.”

As per the PUP’s constitution Hon. Musa rightly pointed out, “the new standard bearer is to be endorsed by the National Executive of the Party on the recommendation of the constituency Branch Executive.”

In speaking to the former Prime Minister, Party Leader Briceño remarked “As leader of this great Party, I express gratitude for your dedicated service to the Party and nation. I promise you that I will lead the PUP to victory in the coming general elections. As Belizeans, we must all be

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Pg. 2 SALDIVAR: Hypocritical and Discriminatory

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Release:

PUP Urges Gov’t to Assist Banana Growers

CASTRO COUGHS UP CO

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EVERYBODY FI WIN!

planBelize

TODOS GANAMOS!

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13 SEP

THE BELIZE TIMES

RT. HON. SAID MUSA RETIRES

Continued from page 1

thankful for the work that you have done.”

Hon. Musa alluded to “making remarkable progress in my rehabilitation but still not to full recovery yet” from a mild stroke he suffered in May of this year at the beginning of Belize’s battle with the then novel coronavirus.

We must surmise that at the start of that same letter Hon. Musa was clear that he is looking forward to the upcoming General Elections with the result being Hon. John Briceño as the next Prime Minister of Belize.

Hon. Musa closed, “we must continue the struggle against the growing hardships of this oppressive government and the COVID-19 pandemic. With hope in our hearts, let us fight like never before, for a better Belize.”

PUP Urges Gov’t to Assist Banana Growers Bananas are brittle to Tropical Storm force winds so they were easy pickings for Hurricane Nana that claimed stake to 40 percent of the trees in the narrow corridor as she passed through Belize. Party Leader John Briceño personally toured the area that was affected and thus could have a working opinion on what was needed. The PUP officially urged the government to put their money where their mouth is.

The UDP, in trying to pre-empt the PUP, hosted a press conference a few days before Nana dishing out more of nothing to farmers that have been waiting one full year and more for drought assistance. Dean Barrow himself has stated that the millions for the farmers will not come until after the elections. This is one where he is right.

Coincidentally, after this release, the PUP is also rolling OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY GENERAL out the planBelize Agriculture Policy.

Friday, September 4, 2020

For Immediate Release

GOVERNMENT MUST OFFER URGENT ASSISTANCE TO THE BANANA INDUSTRY The entire nation must give thanks that we were spared much of the wrath of Hurricane Nana. Coupled with the disaster that is the COVID-19 pandemic, the effects of the hurricane could easily have been catastrophic.

Party Leader John Briceño and the People’s United Party express our support for OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY GENERAL and solidarity with those in the South of the country who did suffer damage, whether to infrastructure or to crops. We note with concern the damage to banana plantations, as preliminary indications are that banana growers lost close to 40% of Friday, September 4, 2020 For Immediate Release their crops. This will translate immediately to the loss of critical foreign exchange and employment for many, at a time when we simply cannot afford any more losses on the economic front.

GOVERNMENT MUST OFFER URGENT ASSISTANCE TO THE BANANA INDUSTRY

While we await the results of a proper and official assessment, we call on the The entire nation must give thanks that we were spared much of the wrath of government to immediately provide whatever assistance is necessary to bolster this Hurricane Nana. Coupled with the disaster that is the COVID-19 pandemic, the industry. This cannot be a replay of the situation with our farmers in the North who effects of the hurricane could easily have been catastrophic. are still awaiting drought relief promised to them since September 2019. We additionally call on the government to utilize NEMO and other relevant agencies in Party Leader John Briceño and the People’s United Party express our support for the South to provide fast assistance to all those who suffered losses. At this time, and solidarity with those in the South of the country who did suffer damage, even minimal losses are untenable to Belizeans already struggling to survive. whether to infrastructure or to crops. We note with concern the damage to banana plantations, as preliminary indications are that banana growers lost close to 40% of their crops. This will translate immediately to the loss of critical foreign exchange --Ends-and employment for many, at a time when we simply cannot afford any more losses on the economic front.

While we await the results of a proper and official assessment, we call on the government to immediately provide whatever assistance is necessary to bolster this industry. This cannot be a replay of the situation with our farmers in the North who are still awaiting drought relief promised to them since September 2019. We additionally call on the government to utilize NEMO and other relevant agencies in the South to provide fast assistance to all those who suffered losses. At this time, even minimal losses are untenable to Belizeans already struggling to survive.

--Ends--

2020

FROM FARM TO TABLE The People’s United Party now had precedent to better, and more of historic to achieve as they officially presented to the Belizean people the planBelize Agriculture Policy. John Briceño and the People’s United Party who are already bolting way ahead of the obsolete corrupt government has no time to waste.

Our Belize is ailing and reeling as we have been hacked and ransacked by the serially corrupt UDP. Our farmers and the agro industry, the real backbone of our economy, are screaming for help. The comatose government has systemically ignored their pleas through droughts, floods, recessions and Covid-19. The UDP is entranced in an Elysium dream with Tourism. Discounted is the fact that tourism was able to flourish because of the presence of our Agroindustry that had to be super self-resilient and able to function on autopilot—in site of the vindictive UDP. Hulse is to Agriculture as Pablo is to Health—an incompetent pain.

But no more, the PUP’s plan for Agriculture into the future includes our Food Security, Tax Cuts, Export agreements, Trade agreements, Financing, Diversification, Increase of Yields, focussed Education, Storage Capacity, New Markets and much more. Other sectors like Tourism will flourish directly and indirectly because of a vibrant Agro productive sector. Covid-19 exposed the ill-advised focus on the Tourism sector. While the government salivates on a continued view to bolster tourism singularly, the PUP’s planBelize revitalizes all sectors which will be thriving as Belize really works for everyone. In this upcoming General Elections, with the PUP…Everybody fih Win…Todos Ganamos.

Please see Summary on page 11

CASTRO COUGHS UP CO

Beef Minister confesses to Mask Misuse/Rundown Transport Department We finally know the reason why Edmond Castro has been so irrational these past thirteen years.

In a rare masked interview, he coughed up that he has been exhaling out Carbon Monoxide (CO) all these years and now the mask forces him inhale the CO right back. This abnormal UDP openly confessed to Belize and the world that as THE reason why he doesn’t like wearing the mask despite the laws of the land.

So does Castro smoke beef since he has a different internal engine which is stronger than that of a normal human lung? While most of us release climate changing and ocean acidifying Carbon Dioxide, the Minister of Emergencies is doling out one less Oxygen atom in CO. He said so himself.

Lucky for Castro, it is in the inhaling that the brain and heart can suffer CO poisoning. There is Castro’s plight. In all the knowledge of his own constitution, Castro feels that wearing a mask as is mandated by our Quarantine Laws does allow his own carbon monoxide a clear path into the atmosphere. It thus answers the question of why Hon. Castro has been photographed so many times not wearing a mask. The most infamous was when he was peddling his smoked beef at the UDP Leadership elect convention.

Given his on-air confession and given precedence of the arrest and quarantine of a Belizean confessing on Facebook to not wearing a mask in public, would a Castro arrest be warranted?

Much less illegal but definitely incompetent, Castro also admitted that there are no sanitation protocols for public buses and terminals. Thanks God the people in buses are taking care. If it were up to Castro, passengers would have their own spike.

Should we hold our Carbon Dioxide for a few to wait for the Commissioner to act on Castro? The Commissioner and the police have arrested people for stating nonsensical things on Facebook before.

These normal Belizeans were swabbed and quarantines.

The only good thing about holding our breath while the Commissioner acts is that we will turn BLU.

Ay...Soon we will have heard Castro’s last interview as a UDP minister. Marconi has Castro trembling.

But…How can the UDP ministers wake up and face the Belizean people?

Name a Minister and their ministry is either corrupt, abandoned, non-functional, or definitely mismanaged. The UDP are in their own stratosphere of incompetence.

Pablo is just their poster boy for incompetence since he has Belizean’s health in his hands. That is a sad thought.

All of the UDP cabinet is ONE complete hotbed of corruption, incompetence and obsolescence. Dehn Got to Go!! Have to…

The Belize Times

Established 1957

14 APR 2013

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ISSUE NO: 4840

The Truth Shall Make You Free

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13 SEP

THE BELIZE TIMES

2020

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EDITORIAL

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Practice What You Preach!

he UDP has long ago lost the ability to surprise us. Their ability to disappoint us however, has been magnified exponentially by these times in crisis. We can all agree that the pandemic caused the cracks already present in the public health system and those in the socio economic fabric to become wide gaping holes. Our Belizean middle class, the beating heart of our economy, is now disappearing into this abyss. Many families are losing their homes, unable to pay their mortgages because it has been five months since they lost their employment. Many lower income families are on the verge of eviction because they cannot pay their rent and many more fear that their utilities will be turned off for failure to make payments. The outlook for larger and more powerful economies is bleak. It then stands to reason that Belize classified as a Small Island Developing State (SIDS) will feel the socio- economic impact even more severely. Our problems, however, did not begin with the pandemic, they have been twelve long years in the making.

Hon. Carla Barnett has been a key member in the UDP administration and a Senator and Minister of State in the Ministry of Finance. In these last four years, Minister Barnett has had every opportunity to stop the reckless endangerment to our economy, but she has refused to do so. As a Minister she has been an accomplice to the rape and pillage of the public purse.

She has stood by while transparency, accountability, and due diligence were thrown out the window. Worse, she has stood quietly and watched as countless men, women and children sink deeper into the poverty that she both by deed and omission helped to create.

Dr. Barnett has stood up on an international stage and given the performance of her lifetime. She has appeared sanctimonious while she has pretended that the pandemic and climate change are the root causes of the financial disaster that Belize as a country faces. She has asked that these countries put themselves “in our shoes� with a bold and bare face. Can Dr. Barnett not smell the stench of corruption that follows her and every current Cabinet Minister? Her selective recollection of the events does not allow her to remember all the Petro Caribe monies squandered, the millions wasted on unnecessary litigation, the illegal government spending of loans, the millions Belizeans over paid for nationalized companies.

Minister Barnett did nothing to stop the cronyism or corruption. She should take heed of her own advice. Put yourself, Madame, in the shoes of the peasant, the normal Belizean or even the little monsters. We have felt the effects of climate change for years, yet this UDP government did nothing for the farmer. Produce has either rot in the fields or shriveled up and died and you have done nothing! There has been no move to make Belize either climate or financially resilient. That is the job of the Ministry of Finance and of Hon. Carla Barnett.

She has utterly failed in doing her job, but what is worse, is that she seems so unfazed and unashamed. It is ironic to ask for empathy from the wider international financial community when you are unable to practice what you preach!

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THE BELIZE TIMES

EDITORIAL

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13 SEP

2020

en Español

¡Practica Lo Que Predicas!

l UDP ha perdido hace tiempo la capacidad de sorprendernos. Su capacidad de decepcionarnos, sin embargo, se ha visto magnificada exponencialmente por estos tiempos de crisis. Todos podemos estar de acuerdo en que la pandemia provocó que las grietas ya presentes en el sistema de salud pública y las del tejido socioeconómico se convirtieran en grandes agujeros. Nuestra clase media beliceña, el corazón palpitante de nuestra economía, está desapareciendo en este abismo. Muchas familias están perdiendo sus casas, incapaces de pagar sus hipotecas porque hace cinco meses que perdieron su empleo. Muchas familias de bajos ingresos están a punto de ser desalojadas porque no pueden pagar el alquiler y muchas más temen que les corten los servicios públicos por falta de pago. Las perspectivas de las economías más grandes y poderosas son sombrías. Es lógico que Belice, clasificado como un PEQUEÑO ESTADO INSULAR EN DESARROLLO (PEID), sienta el impacto socioeconómico aún más severamente. Nuestros problemas, sin embargo, no comenzaron con la pandemia, se han estado gestando durante doce largos años.

La Honorable Carla Barnett ha sido un miembro clave en la administración del UDP y una Senadora y Ministra de Estado en el Ministerio de Finanzas. En estos últimos cuatro años la ministra Barnett ha tenido todas las oportunidades para detener el imprudente peligro para nuestra economía, pero se ha negado a hacerlo. Ha sido cómplice de la violación y el saqueo del erario. Se ha mantenido al margen mientras la transparencia, la rendición de cuentas y la debida diligencia se arrojaban por la ventana. Peor aún, ha permanecido en silencio aun al ver como innumerables hombres, mujeres y niños se hundían más profundamente en la pobreza que ella, por acción y por omisión, ayudó a crear.

La Dra. Barnett se ha puesto de pie en un escenario internacional y ha dado la actuación de su vida. Se ha mostrado santurrona al tiempo que ha fingido que la pandemia y el cambio climático son las causas fundamentales del desastre financiero al que se enfrenta Belice como país. Ha pedido que estos países se pongan “en nuestros zapatos” con un rostro audaz y desnudo. ¿No puede la Dra. Barnett oler el hedor de la corrupción que la persigue a ella y a cada uno de los actuales ministros del gabinete? Su recuerdo selectivo de los acontecimientos no le permite recordar todo el dinero de Petro Caribe despilfarrado, los millones desperdiciados en litigios innecesarios, el gasto gubernamental ilegal de préstamos, los millones que los beliceños pagaron en exceso por las empresas nacionalizadas.

La ministra Barnett no hizo nada para detener el amiguismo ni la corrupción. Debería prestar atención a sus propios consejos. Póngase señora en el lugar del campesino, del beliceño normal o incluso de los pequeños monstruos. Hemos sentido los efectos del cambio climático durante años, pero este gobierno UDP no hizo nada por el campesino. Los productos se han podrido en los campos o se han marchitado y han muerto y usted no ha hecho nada. No ha habido ningún movimiento para hacer a Belice resistente al clima ni a las finanzas. Eso es el trabajo del Ministerio de Finanzas y de la Honorable Carla Barnett. Ella ha fracasado rotundamente en su trabajo, pero lo que es peor, es que parece tan imperturbable y desvergonzada. ¡Es irónico pedir empatía a la comunidad financiera internacional cuando no se puede practicar lo que se predica!

13 SEP

2020

05 5

THE BELIZE TIMES

BELLY of the

BEAST

Astrum We won’t stoop to making fat jokes in this column today. We won’t talk about how Astrum charged thousands more for excess baggage or how the helicopter used to take Mike Peyrefitte down south had to go into the shop for repairs right after. We won’t even get into how Mikado had to close down to replenish stock after making that ridiculous camouflage uniform. But seriously though, Mike needs to stop his mada R. This isn’t a game where people get to play dress up. The country needs a real Minister of National Security, because security is real business. We don’t need this bozo whose only claim to fame is sitting on a talk show making idiotic comments about not being there yet. Mike had no need to get in that poor helicopter and travel down south. It’s not like he could actually help in the search. All he accomplished was slowing down the search party cause he had to rest every two steps. Oh – and of course, it was a taxpayer funded photo op for the big fellow. We need to get serious.

Anyway, we at the Belize Times are happy that Police Officer Ical is safe.

We don’t need any more bad news right now.

Chancey UDP There are reports out of Belmopan that former Minister Porky Pig is furious with his young protégé Khalid after the market fiasco. What a mess that turned out to be. Apparently Khalid, who has decided that he wants out of politics, went ahead and gave permission for a private entity to provide space for market vendors. Except he didn’t tell his fat friend, who promptly took to Facebook (his only battleground these days) to condemn the project. That led to a hell of a situation where Porky had to call in Police to stop the vendors from selling on the property, of course with Khalid nowhere to be seen. Anyway the bottom line is that as is always the case with the UDP, the poor suffer. John has gotten his share of tranches from Lev Dermen, and has slept on Egyptian cotton sheets with Danny Mason. Khalid has managed, somehow, to build a $2M house of his own despite the Belmopan City Council being unable to pay workers most of the time – real miracle worker Mayor. So while the UDP in Belmopan have their bread buttered on both sides, the vendors have to wait in limbo till it’s all sorted out. Please call elections, Grampa Dean. The people are ready.

Saal Beef Word to the Belize Times is that Jokey Castro, also known as Jumoke – son of Clear the Check Castro – will be taking over the saal beef empire after he was forced to leave the public service because of gross misconduct. At first, we were tempted to praise Grampa Dean for finally finding those things which have been missing since Zenaida’s days and doing the right thing. But here’s the thing. Sources are telling us that Jumoke was not actually terminated. That’s just what they want us to believe. We hear that the man was asked to resign and was offered all his benefits to do so. Talk about sweetheart deals. We know that story of him getting kicked out was just too good to be true. Still, we figure Jumoke will look fabulous pushing a saal beef tacos cart around Belize City. Not that we’d buy from him cause he’s just nasty. Just saying.

Granny Carla Normally we wouldn’t waste time on failed politician Carla Barnett.

Her career in politics speaks for itself. In fact, if she wasn’t a favourite of old Grampa Dean, she wouldn’t even have any sort of political career. It makes us vomit when she takes the podium and rants about the economy as if she has all the answers, because for years she has been in a position to make meaningful change and has done nothing at all. If you put her and Godwin in a crocus bag and turned it upside down, there’s no telling who would pop out. Please call election soon so we don’t have to see these people anymore.

Gunman Sources in Corozal say that soon to be former Minister of Health Pablo Marin has already got big plans in store for when he is kicked out of office. We hear that he has already picked a location where he will set up a gun range. Apparently he thinks that since he’s already killed a man, that makes him the baddest in the north and people will flock to his gun range to learn from the best. The reasoning makes no sense to us, but remember this is Pablo we’re talking about so we guess it actually makes perfect sense.

BY ORDER OF CHARGEE NOTICE OF INTENTION TO SELL HOLY REDEEMER CREDIT UNION LIMITED a statutory body formed and registered under the Credit Union Act, Chapter 314 of the Laws of Belize, Revised Edition 2000, and whose registered office is situated at No. 1 Hyde’s Lane, Belize City, Belize District hereby gives notice of its intention to exercise its power of sale as Chargee under and by virtue of a Charge registered at the Land Registry between CLARA LUCY PAZ of the one part and HRCU of the other part.

HRCU will at the expiration of three months from the date of the first publication of this notice sell the properties described in the Schedule below. ALL offers to purchase the said properties must be made in writing to Holy Redeemer Credit Union Limited from whom full particulars and conditions of sale may be obtained.

SCHEDULE REGISTRATION SECTION BLOCK PARCEL San Ignacio South 23 1917 Area: 703.012 s.m.

REGISTRATION SECTION BLOCK PARCEL San Ignacio South 23 1918 Area: 703.012 s.m.

REGISTRATION SECTION BLOCK PARCEL San Ignacio South 23 1942 Area: 703.012 s.m.

REGISTRATION SECTION BLOCK PARCEL San Ignacio South 23 1943 Area: 703.012 s.m.

DATED this 2nd day of September 2020 HOLY REDEEMER CREDIT UNION LIMITED 1 HYDE’S LANE, BELIZE CITY, BELIZE Phone: (501) 224-5644 Fax: (501) 223-0738 E-mail: foreclosures@hrcubelize.org

BY ORDER OF CHARGEE NOTICE OF INTENTION TO SELL HOLY REDEEMER CREDIT UNION LIMITED a statutory body formed and registered under the Credit Union Act, Chapter 314 of the Laws of Belize, Revised Edition 2000, and whose registered office is situated at No. 1 Hyde’s Lane, Belize City, Belize District hereby gives notice of its intention to exercise its power of sale as Chargee under and by virtue of a Charge registered at the Land Registry between MELONIE T. STAINE of the one part and HRCU of the other part.

HRCU will at the expiration of three months from the date of the first publication of this notice sell the property described in the Schedule below.

ALL offers to purchase the said property must be made in writing to Holy Redeemer Credit Union Limited from whom full particulars and conditions of sale may be obtained.

SCHEDULE ALL THAT piece or parcel of land comprising 311.04 square metres being Parcel 594, Block 45 in the Queens Square West Registration Section TOGETHER with all buildings and erections standing and being thereon, the freehold property of MELONIE T. STAINE DATED this 7th day of September 2020 HOLY REDEEMER CREDIT UNION LIMITED 1 HYDE’S LANE, BELIZE CITY, BELIZE Phone: (501) 224-5644 Fax: (501) 223-0738 E-mail: foreclosures@hrcubelize.org

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QUESTIONS TO THE MINISTERS

1. Will the Minister of Human Development, the Hon. Boots Martinez, please inform the nation under which program of the Women and Family Support Department do we learn to call women “assholes”?

2. Will the Minister of Finance, Head of the National Oversight Committee for COVID-19, and Prime Minister of Belize, tell us how many Belizeans have received payment for the 2nd Economic Relief Program?

3. Considering that COVID-19 positive cases continue to rise exponentially, face to face, will the Minister of Health provide the nation with an actual plan for when airports are open?

4. As the measures continue to be relaxed, Belizeans let’s take it upon ourselves to continue to be safe, wear our masks at all times while in public, maintain physical distance, and keep washing our hands with frequency.

CARTOON

13 SEP

THE BELIZE TIMES

2020

BY ORDER OF CHARGEE NOTICE OF INTENTION TO SELL

HOLY REDEEMER CREDIT UNION LIMITED a statutory body formed and registered under the Credit Union Act, Chapter 314 of the Laws of Belize, Revised Edition 2000, and whose registered office is situated at No. 1 Hyde’s Lane, Belize City, Belize District hereby gives notice of its intention to exercise its power of sale as Mortgagee under and by virtue of a Deed of Mortgage registered at the Land Titles Unit between ELSIE GARCIA and STUART GARCIA (Jointly) of the one part and HRCU of the other part.

HRCU will at the expiration of three months from the date of the first publication of this notice sell the property described in the Schedule below.

ALL offers to purchase the said property must be made in writing to Holy Redeemer Credit Union Limited from whom full particulars and conditions of sale may be obtained.

SCHEDULE ALL THAT lot, piece or parcel of land being Lot No. 1532A comprising 245.789 S.M. situate along Tanoomah Street, Belize City, Belize District being such land comprised in MINISTER’S FIAT GRANT No. 125 of 2000 dated 18th February 2000 and more particularly shown and delineated on a Plan of Survey by C. W. Arnold, Licensed Land Surveyor, recorded at the Office of the Commissioner of Lands and Surveys, Belmopan City, Cayo District as Tra. 168, Entry No. 1416 TOGETHER with all buildings and erections standing and being thereon, the freehold property of ELSIE GARCIA and STUART GARCIA (Jointly) DATED this 26th day of August 2020 HOLY REDEEMER CREDIT UNION LIMITED 1 HYDE’S LANE, BELIZE CITY, BELIZE Phone: (501) 224-5644 Fax: (501) 223-0738 Email: foreclosures@hrcubelize.org

13 SEP

2020

THE BELIZE TIMES

07 7

planBelize Agriculture Policy Virtual Rollout

FROM FARM TO TABLE Party Leader John Briceño Remarks

We are happy to greet you on the eve of St. George’s Caye Day from historic Fort Carnes here in my hometown Orange Walk where our Deputy Leader Abi Mai just laid out for you, our vibrant plan for restoring and renewing the productive sector. For some time now we have been hearing that Belize can feed itself, the Caribbean and even our neighbours with grains, chicken beef and other livestock. That we can grow enough beans and corn, provide fish and other seafood to supply markets in Mexico and Central America.

It is our aim then to fully realize such potential.

This of course will be in stark contrast to the UDP, who for 13 years stood by while onions and potatoes rot in our fields. They stood by while shrimp and fish farms buckled, and they appeared indifferent as the citrus industry was reduced to a mere fraction of what it once was.

They are responsible for the abandonment and untimely end to the papaya industry.

They are responsible for fragmenting the cane farmers association.

And their brutal policies which seem pro import and anti-Belize agricultural production, saw a drastic reduction in the agro productive sector.

For the UDP it would seem that agriculture is a dirty word.

No more is this true that in the first months of the COVID-19 pandemic when they ignored the cries of our people to invest in our productive sector so that we can grow more for Belize and our neighbours.

The plan just laid out for Agriculture – our plan -- is pro agrobusiness. It is pro farmers and it is for the productive sector. More significant, it came from you the people.

Over consultations included a blend of farmers, farm leaders, producers, professionals and politicians. We shared our thoughts, but more so, we listened. What we reaffirmed is that Belize is bountiful. That is why we must harness, manage, and produce what we have. It is not about words, but deeds. And it starts with recognizing that Farm to Table is an everyday idea.

This plan: from the Farm to Table is designed by the people and for the people. It is made with the rich ingredients of hope and love. It comes as we grapple with the COVID-19 reality and it is progressive.

The Belizean people will grow more vegetables – more onions, tomatoes, potatoes, broccoli, Chaya, lettuce and callaloo. The Belizean people will improve the quality of milk, cheese, ice cream and yogurt. The Belizean people will process more grains – rice, corn, soybean, beans, black eye peas and sorghum. The Belizean people will grow for export hot peppers, pumpkins, frozen fruits, coconut water, plantains, coco yams, cassava, roots and tubers and we will return to exporting papayas again.

We will invest in our farmers so we can establish micro and small fruit orchards growing limes, soursop, custard apple, mamey, guava, plums and sapodilla.

All this can and will happen.

Why? Because we have a plan.

And our planBelize is simple.

Our number one priority is FOOD SECURITY. But how we get there is via tax reform, trade, more exports and more affordable financing for farmers.

And we will get there by getting out of the way and letting our farmers grow more, produce more and have access to the markets abroad.

Of course, we can only grow more when we teach our children how to plant and to develop a love for the land from early.

What Abi laid out for you tonight is just the framework, there is so much more, and we are excited to share it all with you. So I invite every Belizean to read our agriculture #planBelize, you can find it at www.planbelize.bz. Discuss it with your family, see how you can fit in to this national project that is built for our time and built for our very survival.

We believe that everybody fu grow, everybody fu reap, and Everybody fi win, Todos ganamos!

8 08 8

13 SEP

THE BELIZE TIMES

2020

Agriculture Policy Launch

planBelize

Party Leader Ladies and Gentlemen And especially to our Belizeans farmers and producers.

We are happy to present to you tonight our plan for a better Belize.

This land was at first the home of the Maya, who were hunters and farmers, then came the drifters, those brave Baymen who defied the elements to cut logwood and mahogany. Their ancestors along with the Mestizo, Garifuna, East Indian, and Mennonite would cultivate this land and produce great fruit and grains for our Belizean tables.

Tonight, it is in the spirit of our bold ancestors and those of us who today work this blessed land that we present to you our planbelize on Agriculture: From the farm to the table with love.

In 2020, the Covid-19 pandemic drastically crippled our Belize Economy and further exacerbated the constraints of the productive sectors including agriculture. Although castigated for 13 long years and even after the onset of COVID 19, our agricultural sector is still holding up, believe it or not, in spite of Government’s neglect. The fact that food production and food security in our country have not collapsed like the other sectors, is testament to the inherent strength, dedication and resilience of our hard-working farmers and rural communities.

Indeed, agriculture is undeniably the backbone of our productive sector.

It is the heart that pumps life into the economy and that is why today, all Belizeans understand and appreciate the strategic value of agriculture for our national development. Agriculture is all inclusive, a complete process from natural resources, production of crops, livestock, fisheries and forestry, to the processing, marketing, and exporting of products.

Agriculture is also about investment, training, research, and extension services. Accordingly, policy priorities to improve agriculture must encompass the entire value chain, including those activities in the primary, secondary and tertiary sectors which contribute to and benefit from agriculture.

For more than a decade the state of agriculture in Belize has been on a steady, downward spiral. The UDP boast of highways, roundabouts and buildings, but after 13 years of doing that, our national economy is weak and

Policy in Detail EVERYBODY

TODOS GANAMOS! Hon.

Jose Mai

feeble. Today our nation is in a recession with our economy growing by a mere 0.3% in 2019.

The precarious situation, is the UDP backdrop that we faced with the onset of the coronavirus. In was under this backdrop that a working group representing a healthy blend of farmers, farm leaders, producers, professionals and politicians, discussed, consulted with others, and put their ideas together into the development of this policy. They identified and analyzed our achievements, constraints, opportunities and other important issues that should be addressed and guide the future directions in this PUP policy.

The next PUP government will increase, diversify and sustain agricultural production, food security, income and employment generation. We can and will do this by increasing farm-level capacity, improve technology and innovation, raise labor productivity, and becoming regionally competitive.

Now I know this sounds good but what you want to know is the how.

Here’s the answer.

First we will focus on import replacement and substitution, export expansion. This way we will strengthen the linkages of tourism with our local productive sectors.

What are some of the specific things that will come from this?

One, areas for the production of vegetables will be expanded.

Two irrigation systems, hydroponics and greenhouse technology for high end products will be enhanced.

Three, we will create incentives to increase production, quality and diversity of dairy products and grains for export.

Four, we will Identify ethnic products for niche markets abroad and promote exports to those markets.

And five we will establish small fruit orchards with delicious, nutritious species, for food security and export.

But this is not all we must do, for sure we will have to review the entire tax system and enact reforms to have a simplified, fair, efficient and production-driven.

For this reason we will remove GST from products that are used to produce commodities for export, on irrigation, drainage and other equipment for production, and on materials and supplies used for greenhouse technology.

Reduce taxes on fuel used to produce food for local consumption and export, and on spraying equipment including crop dusters Reduce import duties and GST on equipment and materials used in food processing, packaging and other value adding processes.

A meaningful review will be done with the aim to improve our trade agreements in our region and promote the export of Belizean products.

We must and will negotiate a par-

FI WIN!

tial scope trade agreement with Mexico which will include the exportation of livestock, beans and grains.

We must find ways to reduce the onerous tariffs if we are to achieve real fair trade.

We must change from being an open, import-driven economy to an open, export-driven economy.

Working with associations in sugar, citrus, banana, fisheries and mariculture industries, we will attract investment and technical resources for production and exports.

We must urgently review the status of the sugar industry to modernize the sugar industry act to ensure fairness to all stakeholders.

This will result in many positives like greater investment in producing bio-fuels, renewable energy with through good legislation can ensure that at least 15% of national fuel consumption be locally produced bio-fuel.

We have to strengthen and empower farmer associations to carry out their legal functions to ensure fairness, efficiency and equity among all stakeholders.

We need to do these things to improve our capacity in transportation, research and help our farmers deal with the shocks that come with droughts, storms and disease.

Of critical importance is our efforts to introduce Industrial rates for heavy energy consumers to enhance competitiveness.

And we must review BAHA’s regulatory fees for all agricultural and food exports to streamline costs, to stimulate production and improve competitiveness and export.

We will improve access to affordable financing for farmers by working with credit unions and commercial banks to offer better lending and repayment conditions to farmers.

Through education, diversification and innovative climate smart systems we can help our farmers better build resilience to climate change.

I am excited for the future of agriculture because the next PUP government will forge partnerships with renowned universities, regional and international institutions to mobilize investment for R&D on irrigation, germplasm, integrated pest and disease management, “green” pesticides and food processing. We will rebuild agriculture by teaching agriculture at all levels of education.

Our Party Leader always remind us of the George Price philosophy which is grow and produce more of what we eat, and eat what we produce. We will promote more consumption of what we grow. Belizeans should be able to replace or substitute at least 50% of those foods and feed imports in the next 5 years.

Whether you are blue, red, small, medium or large farmers, there is no

planBelize difference. We want all farmers to grow, to thrive and to work together. Let us be clear - nobody will be overlooked or undermined in our Government’s work. To improve livelihoods, we must raise labour productivity.

This requires enhancing knowledge and skills, investing in proper tools and equipment, using appropriate technology, and manage farming like a business. Here is the best option to knock out poverty and crime for good in rural areas. To execute this policy, the Agriculture Ministry will require full cooperation of other relevant ministries.

Hence our Government will put in place a national planning and monitoring mechanism to ensure that programs and resources are developed and managed to produce the desired impact. We will review with great urgency our staff competencies, discard old and useless programs, adopt real management by objective and for results, routinely evaluate staff and projects every year, and focus on mobilizing resources locally, nationally and internationally. Waste, corruption, incompetence and redundancy must and will end. The private sector, and you, the media, can help us by holding our feet and hands to the fire.

Policy Outcomes and Impact The timely and efficient implementation of our agenda will result in improved capacity good governance, leadership and management of the agriculture portfolio.

We will challenge ourselves to increase exports by at least 10% every year, with the target being $700 m in 5 years. This will help us to reduce food imports by $100 m in five years and farmers will earn an additional $450 m every year from the additional exports and reduced food imports.

Agriculture will employ at least 30 percent of our labour force Poverty, especially in rural areas, will be cut in half, at a rate of 10 percent yearly.

Food and nutrition will increase the total productivity of our agricultural labour force.

With this policy, a renewed strategy and passion, and the necessary investment of resources, we can bring back agriculture, and with God’s blessings, we can make it better for all Belizeans!

For this too is a part of building a Belize that works for Everyone where Everybody Fi Win. Todos Ganamos!

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2020

THE BELIZE TIMES

SALDIVAR:

Hypocritical and Discriminatory

Oscar Mira said it best, “it is hypocritical and discriminatory.”

The laws of Belize are clear when it comes to bringing in 25 Thousand US dollars from outside of Belize. It must be duly established at the airport or else you would be in contravention of the substantive laws of Belize and liable. John Saldivar had the nerve to interfere in a location dispute between Belmopan’s hardworking vendors and dead duck Mayor Khalid Belisle. Saldivar pontificated that “ignoring the laws for the sake of development would invite a state of anarchy.”

He is so right....his friendship with Mason, Dermen, Kingston and other hustlers(guised as ministers) has definitely pushed his presence in Belmopan as virtual anarchy. He should thank God that our majority are God-faring people that follow the rule of law and are giving him due process. That process will be taken to its fullest extent. He and the rest of the UDP are lawless and collect taxpayer dollars for doing any and everything

LIQUOR LICENSE NOTICES Notice is hereby given that Jian Long Yu is applying for a Renewal of a Convenience Store Liquor License to be operated at “Guan’s Shop” located at # 6 Racoon Street, Belize City, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Shuanghua Chen is applying for a Renewal of a Convenience Store Liquor License to be operated at “Oscar Shop” located at # 39 Vernon Street, Belize City, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Jiamao Yao & Xiao Zhong Wang are applying for a Renewal of a Beer Liquor License to be operated at “We Hardware & Construction” located at # 1 Mitchell Estate, Ladyville, Belize City, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Chun Hua Chen is applying for a Renewal of a Convenience Store Liquor License to be operated at “Kick Down Fence” located at # 46 Victoria Street, Belize City, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

except good governance.

Here again is an example of how the UDP stands up against the poor in Belize.

The hard working farmers of Belmopan and surroundings expect their produce to yield and then to be sold locally or maybe exported. But under the UDP, their produce is squashed.

In this Belmopan case, the investor is offering a prime area for vendors to sell from.

This savvy business move allows two things to the chagrin of the UDP: Firstly....Fruit vendors open-air and socially distanced access to the Belmopan proper population and Secondly...The customer base will be satisfied since the cost of going all the way to the Agriculture Show grounds will be saved.

The UDP should be finding a way how to make to accommodate such an initiative that would have a serious and positive business multiplier effect. We suggest the outgoing Mayor do his best to help all the people and to ignore the outgoing representative.

This outgoing representative has no legal nor moral authority to be making any grand statement. We didn’t hear him when the greens of Belmopan were placed in a fire sale.

Maybe it was him as pseudo-Mayor Saldivar carrying out the peddling.

Most emphatically, Saldivar has no moral authority. Any that he had was lost since the Mason summer of 2016 and corroborated in the Dermen February of 2020. In the latter, text messages were revealed all the way from Utah where John Saldivar was begging for tranches of 25k US$$.

There is enough clarity to state that John Saldivar and the Barrows love to beg…till they can’t no more.

Hard working people need a government working for them and not against them.

WHERE IS OUR MARKET? Oscar Mira: “From what we know, Belmopan Market Day has been running for about 20 years. Over that time, we can estimate that the Belmopan City Council has collected approximately $8 million dollars from the vendors. This is more than enough money to

have built a vendors market. Instead, we have no idea where all this money has gone. This money came from the hard work of low income Belizeans but it has not been accounted for. Not only that, they were still selling in a parking lot and now being denied an opportunity to regain some lost income. This is not the way to run a Capital City.”

WHERE ARE THE CITY COUNCIL REPORTS?

099 Since John Saldivar and Khalid Belisle want to quote the Belmopan City Council Act to the vendors, we would like to point to the section of the same Act that requires the Mayor and City Council to submit to the National Assembly an annual report of its finances no later than 4 months after the end of the fiscal year. To date they have not submitted a single report! We want to see those reports! The people of Belmopan deserve no less.

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13 SEP

2020

Agriculture Policy Launch

planBelize

Good evening.

As our Party Leader said: Nuestro planBelize para la Agricultura, provino del pueblo – consultamos durante los últimos meses con representación y aporte de agricultores, líderes agrícolas, productores, profesionales y políticos.

Cuando ponemos nuestras manos en la tierra y la trabajamos como se debe; con esto, hacemos una gran declaración, de que determinamos nuestro destino, nuestra propia supervivencia.

Nuestro plan de Agricultu-

Word of Thanks EVERYBODY

TODOS GANAMOS!‘Monchi’ Ramon ra, de la Granja a la Mesa, está diseñado por el pueblo y para el pueblo.

Se sembró con las semillas de una visión beliceña, con determinación y con trabajo arduo, que traerá a todos los Beliceños a cosechar una nación prospera y segura.

Tonight, all of us in the People’s United Party give thanks to all of you, who for months, worked hard on the development of this excellent plan.

We thank you for the many hours of research, and for your patience, when we had to come back to you because of the onset of the coronavirus. Your focused dedication and hard work is plain for all to see in our Agriculture Plan.

As the proud representative of over 7500 Belizeans who dwell in mostly rural communities and who depend on the land, and on farming for their livelihood, I am happy to promote this policy, because it will be beneficial for ev-

FI WIN! Cervantes

eryone – from the small farmer to the large.

And most importantly - it is a plan that is people centered and people driven. It is for sure, from the farm to the table with love for our country.

I look forward to talking with the voters of Orange Walk North about this policy which will serve the purposes for better food security for Belize; for the teaching of agriculture in the secondary and tertiary schools; for more research and development in agriculture; for access to affordable financing for farmers, especially the small farmers; and for better markets at the best prices for their products – all in all, a better life for all our farmers.

So we thank once more, those who put this policy together.

We also thank the organizers and the participants of tonight’s launch here at historic Fort Carnes, for their excellent presentation, including Ms. Jasmin Samos for her beautiful ren-

planBelize dition of our National Anthem.

Ms. Nassya Novelo, for blessing us with our National Prayer and Ms. Jenny Lovell with that amazing voice who sang a favourite patriotic song: Beautiful Belize.

But more so, we thank all of you who tuned in to watch and listen to our plan.

Please go to www.planbelize.bz and find out more about our ideas for bringing back agriculture in our nation; for this too, is a part of building a Belize that works for everyone.

Con el Partido Unido del Pueblo, Todos Ganamos!

Everybody fi win!

From all of us in the People’s United Party to Belizeans at home and abroad, Happy St. George’s Caye Day. Please stay safe by washing your hands often, keep practicing physical distance and wear your face mask in public.

God bless us all and Good night from Fort Carnes.

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2020

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Agriculture

Agricultura

2020

Continued on page 12

12

Agriculture The overall goal of this policy is to in-

Our financing reform measures combined with crease, sustain agriculour focuseddiversify commitmentand to eliminating waste and inefficiency will allow us tosecurity, fully finance our tural production, food income Plan Action for 2020 togeneration 2025: andof employment in Belize.

1.

2.

3.

4.

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THE BELIZE TIMES

2020

Agricultura

El objetivo general de esta es el auNuestras medidas de reforma depolítica la financiación, mentar, con diversificar y sostenercentrado la producción combinadas nuestro compromiso, en la eliminación del despilfarro y la ineficiencia, nos agrícola, la seguridad alimentaria, los ingresos permitirán financiar plenamente nuestro Plan de Acción y la generación de empara 2020-2025:

Agriculture

Agricultur

pleo en Belice. Este obThis goal will require 1. Educación gratuita desde el preescolar jetivo requeriráhasta aumentar Free Educationincreasing from Pre-School to farm-levjunior college la capacidad de las granJunior College el capacity, improving 2.

Educación preescolar universal The overall goal ofand this policy mejorar la esta tecnología El jas, objetivo general de política es e technology inno-is to increase, Universal Pre-School Education 3.

Establecer un instituto docente y de aprendizaje diversify and sustain agricultural production, food diversificar y sostener la producción agrícola, y la innovación, aumentar vation, raising labor Establish A Teacher and Learning 4.

Maestros al 100% capacitados alimentaria, los ingresos y la generación de security, income and employment generation in la productividad laboral y productivity, and beBelice.

Este objetivo requerirá aumentar la c Institute 5. Programa de ordenador portátil (laptop) de 4 al Belize. This goal will require increasing farm-level las ser granjas, mejorar la tecnología y la innovaci competitivo a nivel reing regionally competimproving technology and innovation, 4th 100% Trained capacity, Teachers la productividad laboral y ser competitivo a niv gional. raising labor productivity, itive.

6. Fondo de préstamos para la educación superior de 4 to 4th Laptop Computer Program and being regionally

5. competitive.

6. Fair Access $5m High Education Fund Import replacement and substitution, export 7. Equal Opportunity $3m Rural Education FOOD SECURITY expansion and strengthening the linkages of Grant Fund tourism with our local productive sectors 8. National Healthy Start Feeding

TAX CUT Program

Review the entire tax system and enact reforms to have a simplified, fair, efficient and development-driven system

9. Free Textbook/e-Book Program Expansion To High School Review and improve our trade policy TRADE 10. Expansion of African Mayan agreementsand in our region History Program

11. Civics Education Levels of the 4 traditional WorkAt withAll the associations EXPORTS exports, i.e. sugar, citrus, banana and shrimp

5 millones de dólares Reemplazo y sustitución de importaciones, expansión SEGURIDAD de lasla exportaciones y fortalecimiento 7.ALIMENTARIA Fondo de subsidio para educación rural dede3los vínculos del turismo con nuestros sectores productivos locales

millones de dólares para la igualdad de oportunidades REDUCCION DE Revisar todo el Sistema Tributario y promulgar reformas 8. Programa alimentación para un IMPUESTOSnacional de para tener un sistema simplificado, equitativo y eficiente comienzo saludable 9. Expansión del programa de libros de texto/eRevisar y mejorar los Acuerdos de Política Comercial en librosgratuitos a la escuela secundaria COMERCIO nuestra región 10. Expansión del programa de historia Africana y Maya Trabajar con las asociaciones de las 4 exportaciones EXPORTACIONES 11.

Educación cívica en todos los niveles tradicionales, es decir, la producción de azúcar, cítricos, banano y camarón

The goal of a PUP government in education is to efficiently allocate the Affordable necessary resources with financing for farmers appropriate incentive mechanisms to align and streamline the roles and objectives of all key stakeholders- students, teachers, parents, management, communities and governmentwithanda innovative view toclimate-smart not only Diversification DIVERSIFICATION deliver quality education but also enhance overall systems student learning using measurable results not only in increased enrolment but more importantly in clear, and Development partnerships with improved student learningResearch outcomes.

El objetivo de un gobierno del PUP asequible en materia educación FINANCIAMIENTO Financiación para losde agricultores es asignar eficientemente los recursos necesarios con mecanismos de incentivos, adecuados para alinear y racionalizar las funciones y objetivos de todas las partes claves interesadas -estudiantes, maestros, padres, DIVERSIFICACIÓN Diversificación y sistemas innovadores administradores, comunidades y gobiernocon miras, de no sólo inteligencia para impartir una educación de climática calidad, sino también a mejorar el aprendizaje general de los estudiantes utilizando resultados mensurables no sólo en el aumento de la y desarrollo matriculación, sino lo queColaboración es másde investigación importante, en con unos INVESTIGACIÓN universidades de renombre resultados de aprendizaje claramente mejorados..

The next PUP government will form a team of creative thinkers who are bold, passionate, smart and and produce of what wePolicy eat and progressive to reform andGrow advance ourmore Education GROW MORE promote more consumption of what we grow.

Agenda. This team will come from the public and private sectors as well as our social sector partners.

El próximo gobierno del PUP formará un equipo de pensadores creativos audaces, inteligentes y Crecer yapasionados, producir más de lo que comemos y CRECIMIENTO progresistas para reformar y avanzar nuestra Agenda de promover más consumo de lo que cultivamos PRODUCTIVO Política Educativa. Este equipo vendrá de los sectores público y privado, así como los interlocutores sociales.

FINANCING

RESEARCH

renowned universities

TEACH

Teaching of agriculture and agri-business in With over 100,000 students enrolled in our education schools.

system from pre-school to university, we have a unique opportunity to shape the future, change the future, build the future.

STORAGE

Improving storage and logistic facilities

WE MUST NOT LOSE THIS OPPORTUNITY! WE MUST NOT WASTE THIS OPPORTUNITY!

Improve our trade and market intelligence for international access andBELIZE! find niche markets for the WE MUST MAKE EDUCATION WORK FOR NEW MARKETS export of the non- traditional commodities

THE PUP WILL MAKE EDUCATION WORK FOR BELIZE!

Enseñanza de la agricultura y la agroindustria en Con más de 100.000 estudiantes inscritos en nuestro sistema las escuelas ENSEÑANZA educativo desde el preescolar hasta la universidad, tenemos una oportunidad única para dar forma al futuro, cambiar el futuro, construir el futuro.

Mejora de las instalaciones logísticas y de

¡NOALMACENAMIENTO DEBEMOS PERDER ESTAalmacenamiento OPORTUNIDAD! ¡NO DEBEMOS DESPERDICIAR ESTA OPORTUNIDAD!

nuestra inteligencia FUNCIONE comercial y de mercados para el ¡DEBEMOS HACER QUE LAMejorar EDUCACIÓN PARA acceso internacional y encontrar nichos de mercado para la MERCADOS BELICE! exportación de los productos no tradicionales ¡EL PUPNUEVOS HARÁ QUE LA EDUCACIÓN FUNCIONE PARA BELICE!

TODOS FI WIN! BLU GANAMOS! EVERYBODY

Continued on page 13

13 SEP

2020

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THE BELIZE TIMES

Our PUP planBelize for Agriculture came from the people – we consulted over the past months with farmers, farm leaders, producers, professionals and politicians.

The COVID-19 crisis reminds us that Belize is bountiful. We must harness, manage, and produce what we have. It is not about words, but deeds. And it starts with recognizing that Farm to Table is an everyday idea.

When we put our hands in the soil and properly utiliz what comes from it, then we are making a big statement; that we determine our destiny, our very survival.

Our Farm to Table Agriculture plan is designed by the people and for the people. Sown with seeds of Belizean vision, determination and hard work, we will reap a nation of prosperity and security.

Nuestro planBelize para la Agricultura vino del pueblo - consultamos durante los últimos meses con representación y aporte de agricultores, líderes agrícolas, productores, profesionales y políticos.

La crisis de COVID-19 nos recuerda que Belice tiene abundancia.

Debemos aprovechar, administrar y producir lo que tenemos. No se trata de palabras, sino de hechos. Y comienza reconociendo que "De la granja a la mesa" es una idea cotidiana.

Cuando ponemos nuestras manos en la tierra y la trabajamos como se debe, con esto hacemos una gran declaración de que determinamos nuestro destino, nuestra propia supervivencia.

Nuestro plan de Agricultura, de la Granja a la Mesa, está diseñado por el pueblo y para el pueblo. Se sembró con las semillas de una visión beliceña, determinación y trabajo arduo que vamos a cosechar una nación prospera y segura.

Johnny Briceño

Leader People’s United Party September 2020

publication of

The People’s United Party Belize, Central America September 2020

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13 SEP

2020

SIX STEPS TO MAKE GOVERNMENT MORE ACCOUNTABLE First, we will ensure an Independent Public Accounts Committee. One that is strengthened so that substantive ministers cannot be members of the PAC. As well, all House Committee meetings, including PAC meetings will be open to the public and streamed live.

Second, the Integrity Commission must do its job effectively. To do so it should no longer be controlled by the Party in Government. Likewise, we will put in place a mechanism to ensure the financial independence of the Integrity Commission with a budget to be approved by the National Assembly. They need the tools and personnel to get the job done!

Third, the recent cases of misappropriation of government funds is a clear indication that we need a strong and independent office of the Auditor General.

• The next PUP Government will ensure that the Auditor General’s Office has unrestricted access to information and with full powers of investigation, including subpoena powers to ensure that requests for information and documentation are complied with expeditiously.

• The Auditor General’s office will be permitted to submit their budget directly to the National Assembly for approval.

• Most important, we will ensure that the Auditor General is allowed to present reports directly to the National Assembly and not only to the Prime Minister.

Fourth, the PUP will not only implement UNCAC, but we will also enact Campaign Finance Legislation.

• In the first 100 days, the new PUP government will direct the Office of the Attorney General to draft Campaign Finance legislation which will be subject to national consultations and review before a final bill is tabled and passed into law.

Fifth we must make the National Assembly function as the centerpiece of our government, complete with all requisite checks and balances.

• That means that the next PUP Government will ensure a minimum of one House Sitting per month.

And sixth now that Senator Aldo Salazar has finally released the findings of the Senate Select Committee on the hustle at the Department of Immigration.

• We demand follow up action including criminal investigation and prosecution as deemed necessary.

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2020

Party Leader John Briceño

VISITS AREAS AFFECTED BY HURRICANE NANA

Our financing reform measures combined with our focused commitment to eliminating waste and inefficiency will allow us to fully finance our Plan of Action for 2020 to 2025:

September 5, 2020

1. Free Education from Pre-School to Junior College 2. Universal Pre-School Education 3. Establish A Teacher and Learning Institute 4. 100% Trained Teachers 5. 4 to 4th Laptop Computer Program 6. Fair Access $5m High Education Fund 7. Equal Opportunity $3m Rural Education Grant Fund 8. National Healthy Start Feeding Program 9. Free Textbook/e-Book Program Expansion To High School 10. Expansion of African and Mayan History Program 11. Civics Education At All Levels

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2020

18 JAN

THE BELIZE TIMES 2015

RT. HON. SAID MUSA RETIRES Nuestras medidas de reforma de la financiación, combinadas con nuestro compromiso, centrado en la eliminación del despilfarro y la ineficiencia, nos permitirán financiar plenamente nuestro Plan de Acción para 2020-2025: 1. Educación gratuita desde el preescolar hasta junior college 2. Educación preescolar universal 3. Establecer un instituto docente y de aprendizaje 4. Maestros al 100% capacitados 5. Programa de ordenador portátil (laptop) de 4 al Meets with Party Leader John Briceño to 4th Inform (September 8, 2020) 6. Fondo de préstamos para la educación superior de 5 millones de dólares 7. Fondo de subsidio para la educación rural de 3 millones de dólares para la igualdad de oportunidades 8. Programa nacional de alimentación para un comienzo saludable 9. Expansión del programa de libros de texto/elibrosgratuitos a la escuela secundaria 10. Expansión del programa de historia Africana y Maya 11. Educación cívica en todos los niveles

The goal of a PUP government in education is to efficiently allocate the necessary resources with appropriate incentive mechanisms to align and streamline the roles and objectives of all key stakeholders- students, teachers, parents, management, communities and government- with a view to not only deliver quality education but also enhance overall student learning using measurable results not only in increased enrolment but more importantly in clear, improved student learning outcomes.

El objetivo de un gobierno del PUP en materia de educación es asignar eficientemente los recursos necesarios con mecanismos de incentivos, adecuados para alinear y racionalizar las funciones y objetivos de todas las partes claves interesadas -estudiantes, maestros, padres, administradores, comunidades y gobierno- con miras, no sólo para impartir una educación de calidad, sino también a mejorar el aprendizaje general de los estudiantes utilizando resultados mensurables no sólo en el aumento de la matriculación, sino lo que es más importante, en unos resultados de aprendizaje claramente mejorados..

The next PUP government will form a team of creative thinkers who are bold, passionate, smart and progressive to reform and advance our Education Policy Agenda. This team will come from the public and private sectors as well as our social sector partners.

El próximo gobierno del PUP formará un equipo de pensadores creativos audaces, apasionados, inteligentes y progresistas para reformar y avanzar nuestra Agenda de Política Educativa. Este equipo vendrá de los sectores público y privado, así como los interlocutores sociales.

With over 100,000 students enrolled in our education system from pre-school to university, we have a unique opportunity to shape the future, change the future, build the future.

WE MUST NOT LOSE THIS OPPORTUNITY! WE MUST NOT WASTE THIS OPPORTUNITY! WE MUST MAKE EDUCATION WORK FOR BELIZE! THE PUP WILL MAKE EDUCATION WORK FOR BELIZE!

Con más de 100.000 estudiantes inscritos en nuestro sistema educativo desde el preescolar hasta la universidad, tenemos una oportunidad única para dar forma al futuro, cambiar el futuro, construir el futuro. ¡NO DEBEMOS PERDER ESTA OPORTUNIDAD! ¡NO DEBEMOS DESPERDICIAR ESTA OPORTUNIDAD! ¡DEBEMOS HACER QUE LA EDUCACIÓN FUNCIONE PARA BELICE! ¡EL PUP HARÁ QUE LA EDUCACIÓN FUNCIONE PARA BELICE!

TODOS FI WIN! BLU GANAMOS! EVERYBODY

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2020

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2020

HEALTH – WHOSE RESPONSIBILITY? ME OR GOB or BOTH

So let’s consider some real life cases that we know have occurred in Belize. We have had persons who made sure to wear a mask like they wear their clothes, wash hands frequently, and did social distancing and only went out when there was an absolute need to do urgent errands.

But, still contracted Covid-19. Did these individuals bring the condition to himself or herself? Were all known precautions being taken --YESSSSS! There are many Covid-19 stories like these in which people are taking their health seriously because it’s their responsibility and listen to only official information from the Ministry of Health and the World Health Organization.

So when the stigma and discrimination occurs on the different media like Facebook, Twitter, and other social media, it always does more harm than good to the individuals who may have had to fight to stay alive or had to self-isolate from their loved ones.

Now they are forced into another battle to face hurtful criticism from an inconsiderate portion of the public who has not been educated to understand that WORDS MATTERS. This cruel behaviour may often push responsible people to hide their illness to avoid further stigma and discrimination. This in turn can even prevent them from seeking further medical care for themselves and even go into denial and continue to be out in public spaces and thus increasing exposure to others.

Government therefore has a responsible to flood the TV and radio stations with public announcement in an effort to eliminate or even decease the Covid-19 stigma and discrimination. There should be positive messages on all government-owned social media platforms as well, especially the Ministry of Health Facebook page as well as the Office of Director of Health Services and the Government Press Office. These three pages are heavily trafficked and can serve this purpose as well during this challenging time. This is just one way in which GOB can show some level of responsibility for the health of the people of this nation by addressing

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the issue of stigma and discrimination.

In addition, GOB needs to provide follow-up health and social services as many of our countrymen/women diagnosed with COVID 19, as many might be out of a job and unable to earn for his/ her family. This puts added strain and stress on the individual whose weak immune system is already weak, which can result in a further deterioration of the individual’s health. In addition, GOB, needs to increase law enforcement presence or measures to ensure self-quarantined persons are doing the required self-isolation in an effort to flatten the curse. By now, with all the Covid-19 loans in the millions that have been borrowed, as a country with such a small population, GOB should prioritize and spend on technology to help increase the contact tracing of Covid-19 as well as distribute electronic gadget to monitor and evaluate all positive cases in Belize. Right now, as I watch the death toll rising faster than wildfire now at 16 in less than four months, compared to other countries with larger population in the region, e.g. Barbados, it seems to be that it’s all normal to lose a loved one to Covid-19, after all people the world over are dying.

So as a nation we battle with the mental distress of this Covid-19 pandemic in all forms as they present themselves; we are battling with the issue that we may lose a loved one or your loved ones might lose you, and we are also battling with the stigma and discrimination issue. Even with GOB’s failure to educate the populace on this issue, it’s important to remember that WORDS MATTERS. It is very important to avoid stigmatizing people and we can all do this. How? DO talk about the new coronavirus BUT don’t attach locations or ethnicity to the disease. Interestingly enough, our daily and weekly updates from GOB does indicate where the positive cases are located. For example, on Tuesday September 8th, 2020 at 9:08 pm the following was posted as an update: A total of 54 samples are reactive for SARS-CoV2 with a preliminary breakdown as follows: Corozal District: 1 in Patchakan, Orange Walk District: 19 (8 Town, 4 San Jose Palmar, 2 Trial Farm, 2 San Luis, 1 Honey Camp, 1 Yo Creek, 1 Tower Hill), Belize District: 12 (7 City, 5 San Pedro), Cayo District 10 (8 in San Jose Succotz, 1 Benque Viejo, 1 San Ignacio), Stann Creek: 12 (5 in Dangriga [1 Border Jumper], 1 Hopkins, 1 Middlesex, 5 are from OW but swabbed in Dangriga). How can the presentation of the Covid-19 update be amended to eliminate stigma and discrimination? I am unsure at this time but I am looking for possible suggestions to submit.

How would you feel if you were one of the two persons in Trail Farm identified in this GOB update?

According to WHO, and as I say, we self-educate, we are asked to - DO talk about people who have or may have Covid-19 people who died

“MA JANE”

This past Saturday close family members and a few members of the UWG held a wreath laying ceremony for the late Jane Usher affectionately known to thousands as “Ma Jane.” It was held at the family residence located near mile 5 on the Phillip Goldson Highway.

“Ma Jane would have celebrated her 103rd birthday” September 5, 1917 - December 12, 2018.

In Loving memory Contributed By Bernard Richards Mrs Jane Usher and Mrs. Gladys Idolly Richards It’s been the hardest thing to lose you You mean so much to me But you are in my heart mom And that’s where you will always be I know that Heaven called you But I wish you could have stayed At least the memories I have of you They will never fade I did not want to lose you But you did not go alone Because a part of me went with you When Heaven called you home.

So just remember one thing We are not apart You are either me in my memories And in my broken heart Both of you would be celebrating birthdays this month We will be celebrating in your honour Both of you are sadly missed by Bernard Richard’s and Family.

after contracting Covid-19 but don’t refer to the people with the disease as Covid-19 cases or victims. The initial releases from GOB had identified the first few patients as cases, case 1 case 2, case 3 etc. and something didn’t sit right in my soul as I read the first few releases thinking why is a number assigned to a human being --somebody’s loved one? Happy that has changed. But more needs to be done in respect to GoB’s responsibility of establishing a better health system and structure to address Covid-19 and the issues that come with it.

So as we co-exist and hope for the best, please let us DO talk about people acquiring or contracting Covid-19 but don’t talk about people transmitting Covid-19 infecting others or spreading the virus as it implies

intentional transmission and assigns blame.

DO speak and share accurate information about risk from Covid-19 and do not spread rumors that are not confirmed or language that spreads fear. DO talk positively and emphasize the effectiveness of preventative measures such as handwashing but don’t emphasize or dwell on the negative or threatening messages. And most importantly DO good when using your social media accounts to spread facts and solidarity as this individual effort will help all of us to prevent the spread of Covid-19. And DO lend support to families affected by offering a meal or provide some groceries as every little counts in these difficult times. After all, PLEASE REMEMBER Covid-19 doesn’t discriminate! Why should we?

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THE BELIZE TIMES

THINK ABOUT IT

CRIME WAVE & COVID WAVE The covid wave that is slowly but surely spreading across most of Belize is increasingly exposing the incompetence and inability of the government to deal with our most urgent and deadly threat.

It is an established fact that the government has NOT been properly planning and managing this spreading crisis. The hospital, medical personnel and scarce equipment is inadequate… grossly inadequate. Testing is very limited and does not provide any assurance to those who are part of the mapping process or who feel they are infected.

The conditions of quarantining citizens is nothing short of atrocious. There is no money for clean, healthy and safe quarantine buildings.

The financial assistance for the fifty to eighty needy citizens is almost a waste of time. Getting a meagre one hundred dollars every two weeks from government is a sick joke for suffering Belizeans.

Surely we can do better than this. Even though the government has stolen and wasted multimillions of monies, looking after basic needs of citizens is a must.

As if we all are not suffering enough, the weekend wave in crime was a cruel reminder of government’s failure to solve this cancer on the country. Monday night’s television news was nothing but short of alarming. Murders, home invasions, robberies, shooting, crime and more crime, happened all across the country.

Added to this list of woes is the increasing indiscipline and unprofessional behavior of many members of the Police departments. Beating of civilians, illegal entry into homes, roughing up women and children and widespread disrespect is spreading like covid-19.

The San Pedro Police station continue to top the list of unprofessional police conduct. On that embattled island, police are even beating civilians inside the detention cells at the station.

The situation is dread. It is horrible.

BUTANE PRICE GONE UP Is anyone surprised? The price of butane has gone up. The government which has a duty to be an honest impartial regulator has instead joined forces with the capital list investors and have become a major investor in making money from importing and selling butane.

Incredible but true.

And why not. The same government paid $580 million dollars for BTL when the owners only deserved $360 million.

The same government took away Boledo & Lottery from the public sector and gave it to Brads and a Ministers son, who are now milking millions of dollars that belong to the poor people of Belize. This is a classic example of corruption and kick back in small, poorly managed third world countries infected with gangster Ministers.

As to cruel high taxes on patrol, that’s a story by itself.

COST OF LIVING KEEP GOING UP If poverty is what fuels crime, then the cost of living is what fuels poverty. Belize has seen an increase in its unacceptable level of poverty. From 44% twelve years ago to 53 percent in 2020, and rising. Life has become really, really hard for thousands of our unfortunate citizens.

This is how it was before the arrival of covid and the drying up of tourism dollars.

Nothing is being done to keep the cost of living down.

Nothing!

There is much suffering in the land.

DOL WILL TROUNCE BEV Dolores will trounce Beverly in the upcoming general elections. Beverly Williams was elected

13 SEP

2020

by the people of Hattieville, Mahogany Heights, Lords Bank and Ladyville to represent them. She is in Belmopan campaigning for scandal riddim John Saldivar. Her constituency is and has been neglected for five years.

Wendy Castillo, an illustrious and proud resident of Hattieville who could have been a candidate and easily beat Beverly, has stated publicly that voters want Beverly out. She knows.

In her words, Dolores will trounce Beverly bad.

NO RADAR It is no surprise that the weather Radar at the met office has not been repaired. Not only is the government broke and cannot fix it, it is they just don’t care.

So Belize is four months into the annual hurricane season and still has no radar. Our weather information comes from Miami or somewhere in the USA. They said hurricane “Nana would hit Southern Belize with winds of up to 70 miles per hour and it would be a full blown hurricane by the time it touched our coast. Nothing like that happened.

Because we have no radar, our people were frightened by the projections and were spending their little ten dollars and fifteen dollars buying up extra provisions and so on.

They punished for nothing.

LORD RHABURN -MUSICAL GENIUS Everybody in Belize knows Dibary, Dibary, the popular store on Albert Street and in the district.

Thanks to Lord Rhaburn who wrote and sang the jingle.

Now comes his latest -covid - a message to Belizeans to protect ourselves by wearing mask and keeping social distance.

His classic among a long list of classics remain “If You Want To Save My Friend, Credit Union Is Around The Bend”.

“No Use Keeping Yu Money In You Pocket, Cause When You Turn Round You Aint Got It….The Bank Is Willing To Lend, But That Is Only To Certain Big Men”- Save, Save, Save The Credit Union Way! In this September season we should once again honor this musical genius while he is still with us. We understand Mayor Bernard Wagner has agreed to rename one of the streets alongside Memorial Park as Lord Rhaburn Promenade.

We are hoping NICH can include a small token cheque of twenty thousand dollars from their secret Asian donation.

Respect Lord Gerald Rhaburn, big respect to you sir.

PASS IT ON Jamaica held its general elections last week on 3rd September. The incumbent Jamaica Labour Party won 48 of the 53 seats with the People’s National Party getting only 15 seats. Third parties as has been the long history in Caribbean countries picked up a handful of votes.

Of the 1,913,400 voters, only 700,000 went to the polls to vote a historic low of only 37 percent of voter turnout. Voters abandoned the PNP in droves. Their leader Peter Phillips was ageing and uninspiring. Efforts to replace him ended in a bitter internal fight and public spectacle.

In Belize the UDP will lose the elections which is less than two months away. They have an ageing leader who is trying to piggy back on covid press conferences. He is the worst Prime Minister Belize has ever had. He has squandered hundreds of millions of dollars and presided over the most corrupt government the country has ever experienced.

There has been no political reform, no good governance, crime is becoming endemic in our country with murders reaching one hundred each year. Poverty is like a fast spreading cancer. Agriculture has been completely neglected. The economy is at a standstill. An outdated education system remains in place with no attempts at structural changes. Large numbers of young people are shut out of attending college, Sixth Form and University and our health system remains the same after 12 years of UDP mismanagement.

If ever there was a need to change government, now is the time to do it. The UDP is old and stale and has no energy or ideas to tackle our problems and take the country forward.

Life under the UDP is hard and offers a bleak future. We Belizeans deserve better. Better must come.

The UDP will lose the upcoming general elections otherwise dog will eat our supper. Pass it on.

13 SEP

2020

21

THE BELIZE TIMES

Standard Bearer for Port Loyola

Gilroy Usher

We will…

PROPER HOUSING FOR THE RESIDENTS OF PORT 1) Build 2 & 3 bedroom low income, concrete houses for the people, complete with partition, electrical wiring, bathroom facility and ceiling.

2) Have program to repair the most urgent and needy existing houses.

3) We will also assist persons in the area in obtaining leases and titles for them to fully own their land.

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

Date

NOVASTAR HOLDING LTD.

27th August, 2020

HEAVENSDOOR LTD.

27th August, 2020

DEXTER LIMITED

27th August, 2020

MARIANO LTD.

27th August, 2020

SIGMA LOGIC LTD.

27th August, 2020

SAPHIRE SERVICES LIMITED.

27th August, 2020

Belize Corporate Services Limited Registered Agent

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

Date

BOZARIS GROUP S.A.

20th August, 2020

CHAMELET PARTNERS LTD.

26th August, 2020

Icaza Belize Trust Corporation Limited Registered Agent

BY ORDER OF CHARGEE NOTICE OF INTENTION TO SELL HOLY REDEEMER CREDIT UNION LIMITED a statutory body formed and registered under the Credit Union Act, Chapter 314 of the Laws of Belize, Revised Edition 2000, and whose registered office is situated at No. 1 Hyde’s Lane, Belize City, Belize District hereby gives notice of its intention to exercise its power of sale as Chargee under and by virtue of a Charge registered at the Land Registry between SEFERINO PAZ (Chargor) and CLARA LUCY PAZ (Borrower) of the one part and HRCU of the other part.

HRCU will at the expiration of three months from the date of the first publication of this notice sell the properties described in the Schedule below. ALL offers to purchase the said properties must be made in writing to Holy Redeemer Credit Union Limited from whom full particulars and conditions of sale may be obtained.

SCHEDULE REGISTRATION SECTION BLOCK PARCEL San Ignacio South 23 1916 Area: 989.682 s.m.

REGISTRATION SECTION BLOCK PARCEL San Ignacio South 23 1940 Area: 1591.035 s.m.

REGISTRATION SECTION BLOCK PARCEL San Ignacio South 23 1941 Area: 950.144 s.m.

DATED this 2nd day of September 2020

THE PEOPLE DESERVE NOTHING LESS.

HOLY REDEEMER CREDIT UNION LIMITED 1 HYDE’S LANE, BELIZE CITY, BELIZE Phone: (501) 224-5644 Fax: (501) 223-0738 E-mail: foreclosures@hrcubelize.org

22

THE BELIZE TIMES

HOPE FOR THE BEST>>>

By Ricardo Moguel Rosado We braced for the worst but anxiously expected the best. Breathing down our neck in our turbulent sea of dwindling expectations was hurricane Nana heading directly into the heart of our motherland.

A Covid-19 weary Belizean population needed a distraction. 1,100 was too much to fathom so we focused on another impending disaster and unfortunately it was going to be ours and not our neighbours’.

The restless 1,100 was to increase with more disastrous results.

With a broken economic spirit, most Belizeans hopelessly wander, struggling for survival. The recent shortfall in our sugar cane production saddled with high overheads and high interest rate loans meant a drastic loss of income to the north. With no assistance for economic survival, with a massive loss of jobs for most Belizeans to sustain a moderate lifestyle, with recent national events that demonstrated a total disregard for us as Belizeans by the powers that be, with broken promises, cheap excuses and very little Covid-19 relief assistance that assisted nothing, had fortified our distrust for officialdom. With an election looming in the horizon government aid disguised an election gimmick made us doubt the seriousness of all half- hearted efforts. Oranges and bananas just couldn’t cover the bills.

Covid–19 and a failed government had modified our purchasing behaviour so that this time we could not flock in the stores to buy emergency hurricane food supplies like we had done for 100’s of years. There was no money for such luxury. What we had purchased with money that was supposed to pay our utility bills during wicked Covid-19 onslaught, was long consumed and we were praying for help from above. Many of us were unsettled and insomniac with utility bills from BWS and BE and their counterparts like Quick Loans, Cable TV, Courts etc. weighing heavily on our IOU’s. DFC was supposed to help but instead was strangling us just with interest payments.

With no money for food, no jobs, not even a smile on the national face, grumbling stomachs heralded the conversion of the middle class to the poor class.

And the poor became marginalized. The national landscape became littered with a sharp increase in robberies and home invasions. The Covid-19 mask gave petty thieves a perfect disguise.

With no end in sight and every entity demanding money, with a world literally scared to death, with Joe and Jane public without jobs and kids to feed, an approaching hurricane was the right ingredient for us to keep our sanity. And we got the last remnants of snacks, brought out the cards, replaced the radio with cable TV, talked about Mildred’s failed marriage and cussed the failed government. Then the old ones noticed that a big change had occurred. Yesteryear families gathered to confront and withstand a hurricane and the voice of Belize would play beautiful music with news from all corners of Belize ricocheting throughout the nation looking for loved ones or sending messages to them. Now messages are sent through cellular phones. Today the TV was all about experts, beautiful graphics and

smart ads. The human element has disappeared from broadcasting and Seferino Coleman and Panchita are not even a memory.

And we resigned ourselves and waited for the hammer of justice to proclaim an impending disaster on our western Caribbean shores, Grandma Goya kept telling us stories about hurricane Hattie. The politicians on Independence Hill anticipated all the aid that would come in for reconstruction.

The 500 million dollars from Petrocaribe up in smoke, a 113 million for Covid relief aid that hasn’t helped anybody, all the bills are still looming somewhere, and hopefully many more millions for Nana’s reconstruction to fill their pockets. And at midnight of Wednesday September 2 a breath of relief from the nation was registered on the space station as Nana kissed the Belizean coast. It was a weak hurricane and destruction was minimal.

Belize had been spared once again.

Bad news to some, no reconstruction fund from the world.

Hurricanes always bring nostalgic moments forward because it has deeply impacted and influenced our disaster survival culture. It was justification for building a new capital in 1969. 2008 was supposed to usher in a new era of national salvation and reconstruction, a time to reach higher heights and that the best was yet to come. Sweet Shakespearean words deluged the national front and we harvested Dante’s Inferno. Good intentions excited the nation and an army of highly qualified individuals with the professional propensity and ability to just utter “yes sir” entered the national scene. Electricians became caretakers of the national health, a failed teacher, whose only ability for national development was purchasing pibil tacos in Corozal, was put in charge of Education. We have yet to see a national program of Maya, Garifuna and African studies implemented on a National Level. When a Maya temple, Nohmul, highest structure in the North, was destroyed for landfill by a failed UDP standard bearer, not a single word was uttered from Belmopan. 4,000 years of Maya presence became landfill for the select few that kept filling their pockets. Truck drivers suddenly became mega road contractors with no accountability. Before their road projects ends the road surfaced already had major deterioration.

And as the World Bank gave Belize 16 million dollars on August 17 for a total monetary Covid-19 relief fund contribution of 113 million dollars, many ask where is their share? This total could have given every Belizean, including children and the elderly, $282.50. And yet the majority of Belizeans did not get anything. Those who got, got very little that it didn’t even make a difference.

Their cumulative light bill will be more than that.

And we were mercifully spared from Nana but the exposure Covid-19 did to our inefficiencies and corruption can no longer be swept under the rug.

Nana spared us but Covid-19 in hand with a bad administration devastated us.

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2020

LIQUOR LICENSE NOTICES

Notice is hereby given that Yue Shao Ruan is applying for a Renewal of a Convenience Store Liquor License to be operated at “R & I Snack Shop” located at # 7680 Fabers Road Ext., Belize City, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Jian Ming Liao is applying for a Renewal of a Convenience Store Liquor License to be operated at “139 Store” located at # 139 Neal’s Pen Road, Belize City, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Meng Yan is applying for a Renewal of a Shop Liquor License to be operated at “Angela Hui 88” located at #9066 La Croix Blvd. Belize City, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Huimin Su is applying for a Renewal of a Shop Liquor License to be operated at “766 Shop” located at # 7598 Fabers Road Ext., Belize City, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Wei Mei Yu & Xian Feng Wen are applying for a Renewal of a Convenience Store Liquor License to be operated at “Fenny Shop” located at # 14 South & East Canals, Belize City, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Wei Yun Liao is applying for a Renewal of a Shop Liquor License to be operated at “New Williams Shop” located at # 19 Orange Street, Belize City, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Jian Hong Yan is applying for a Renewal of a Shop Liquor License to be operated at “Wing An Shop” located at # 144 East Collet Canal. Belize City, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Wei Chi Yan is applying for a Renewal of a Shop Liquor License to be operated at “New Shop” located at # 2 Gabourel Lane, Belize City, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Yi Feng Tan is applying for a Renewal of a Shop Liquor License to be operated at “Shun Yuan” located in Ladyville Village, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Zhufeng Luo is applying for a Renewal of a Shop Liquor License to be operated at “Homever” located at Miles 13 Philip Goldson Highway, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Youqiang Chen is applying for a Renewal of a Convenience Store Liquor License to be operated at “Wang Jiao Shop” located at # 8 Mapp Street, Belize City, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Vin’s Liquors Ltd. is applying for a Renewal of a Publican General Liquor License to be operated at “Vin’s Liquors Ltd.” located at # 1 Euphrates Avenue, Belize City, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Fen Xian Guan is applying for a Renewal of a Publican General Liquor License to be operated at “Vin Hong Supermarket” located at # 3 Euphrates Avenue, Belize City, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Wen Yan Xiao is applying for a Renewal of a Convenience Store Liquor License to be operated at “Hong Weng Shop” located at # 39 King Stret, Belize City, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

Notice is hereby given that Zhou Rong Li is applying for a Renewal of a Shop Liquor License to be operated at “Jian Ye” located at # 3 2nd Street, King’s Park, Belize City, Belize District under the Intoxicating Liquor License Ordinance Revised Edition 1980.

13 SEP

2020

THE BELIZE TIMES

23

Party Leader John Briceño: From all of us in the PUP a

Happy St. George’s Caye Day 222nd Anniversary of our own 10th of September

The Hon. John Briceño, the PUP National Executive and the PUP Family wish the people of Honduras | Guatemala | Nicaragua | El Salvador | Costa Rica

Feliz Día de Independencia!

199th Aniversario September 15 Feliz Día de Independencia!

Mexico 210th Anniversary September 16

24

13 SEP

THE BELIZE TIMES

2020

PUP Councils on the Move

Mayor Rigo Vellos Address to Corozal on the Official Opening of the Patriotic Month Greeting to all residents of beautiful Corozal Town. On behalf of my office, Deputy Mayor Hilberto Clark, our councillors, hardworking council administration and staff, and the September Celebrations Committee, in keeping with tradition, I address you on the official opening of our patriotic month of September to observe the 222nd Anniversary of the Battle of St. George’s Caye and the 39th Anniversary of our Independence.

I also address you during one the most challenging of times of this century and certainly of our nation’s own history. The novel coronavirus has changed every facet of our lives as we have come to know it and has force us to a new way of life. Under strict health and safety requirements the pandemic has also required how all of us rethink how we celebrate birthdays, weddings, and even our own most patriotic month.

In collaboration with the National September Celebrations committee, a decision has been taken that we must adhere to the State of Emergency rules, limiting social events and gatherings. We therefore cannot have the regular grand event such as the opening ceremony that featured the local talent, juve, carnival, parade nor other official ceremonies that featured fireworks display. While the pandemic has put on hold the revelry and gathering it cannot hold down our patriotic zeal. It has not taken away our Belizean pride nor will it ever remove our nationalism.

As a proud Belizean you can still fly our flags high and wear your patriotic colors. As families you can still take the time to help the needy, plant trees to help our environment and keep our neigbourhoods clean.

To help in boosting nationalism our council has organized a number of

virtual stay-at-home activities for our residents to participate in. These include poetry competition for primary and high school students. A patriotic art poster competition featuring the Battle St. George’s Caye. A best tenday stay at home patriotic family portrait competition. An acapella style patriotic style competition and a DJ competition. Each of these can be prepared using cell phones and submitted online. They will entail prizes for 1st, 2nd, 3rd place winners. In the coming days, we will reveal more details on our council’s Facebook page so we invite you to check it out.

I make a special appeal to our parents to reach out to our young ones on the topic of patriotism. Take time to talk to them about our road to Independence. We should never forget the struggles by those who believe that our nation should be free of chain of British colonialism. Our

young children will be the ones to carry on the mantle of a stronger democracy and economic Independence.

We observe our patriotic month this year under the theme: Overcoming Adversity, Creating Opportunity. Belizeans Unite for Prosperity.

Unity in strength. As a community, we can overcome any adversity that befalls upon us. As a municipal body we remain focused on creating opportunities despite the trying times. Because we believe in our community. We believe in you our resident, and we believe in Belize.

Continue to practise health and safety guidelines, to protect your home, your family and your community. May you have a safe and patriotic September month.

Long live Belize, que viva Belize.

Orange Walk Town Council: “The Work Continues.”

CLOSURE OF TRAFFIC DEPARTMENT (September 6, 2020) The Orange Walk Town Council advises all residents that the Traffic Department will be closed for the next two weeks, following multiple employees of that department testing positive for COVID-19. The closure is to ensure a proper sanitization of the premises, and to pro-

vide a timeframe for all those testing positive to be classified as recovered cases before reopening.

The Council advises that residents will be able to access traffic services through online transactions for the duration of the closure.

The administrative offices of the Council will also be closed on Monday, September 7 to allow for a com-

plete sanitization exercise, but will reopen on Tuesday. We will continue to follow all guidelines established by the Ministry of Health, as we have been doing.

In the next weeks, the Council will be launching a full online portal where residents will be able to access all the services of the Council, with the view to

minimize traffic during this time of the pandemic. Details will be announced via our Facebook page.

We ask that all residents join us in praying for the full and speedy recovery of the members of the Traffic Department infected by COVID-19.

Please continue to wear your masks, maintain social distancing and practice proper hygiene at all times.

Belize City Council, Always ‘Bout the People Today we express our gratitude to all personnel who took up the call as first responders as we faced hurricane Nana. The Belize City Council in collaboration with NEMO, the Ministry of Health, the Belize Defense Force, the Belize Police Department, the Belize Red Cross, and the Belize Coast Guard was able to keep our Emergency Operations Center (EOC) fully available and ready to assist our residents at the various shelters throughout the city.

Our team of professionals, including Mayor Wagner, City Administrator Mrs. Stephanie Lindo-Garbutt and the entire team of Councilors and City Council staff were able to successfully monitor the progression of the hurricane, feed live information to our residents via NEMO and the National Meterological Services of Belize and kept our shelters stocked and safe throughout the night.

We would especially like to acknowledge our CEMO department who, under the stewardship of Deputy Mayor Michael Norales, were able to develop and enact a disaster mitigation plan as well as contributed their efforts at the EOC and all shelters in the city.

Our mission came to a close today as our team visited all shelters to conduct a full and thorough sanitization so that teachers can resume their work. A heartfelt thank you to all participants, we appreciate you assisting us to serve our people.

13 SEP

2020

THE BELIZE TIMES

25

PUP Standard Bearers

to their Constituents Excerpts of FB Posts and other

Hon. Jose Mai, Orange Walk South

Hon. Oscar Requena, Toledo West

Amazing Day Today… Much love from San Vicente and Jalacte. We went. to check with our leaders on the damages caused by the storm. Hon. Oscar also went to deliver his contributions to different projects in these Villages. This included the contribution towards this one of a kind newly built Church by the people of San Vicente. Over 220 farmers got affected with over 900 acres of corn field being destroyed in San Vicente

ue to build with the vast majority of the people in the Constituency. We are countering the UDPs’ desperate tactics with truth, vision, competence and love. We will not let them get away with any illegal action nor with new lies and the regurgitation of old lies.

Let’s deal with the racism attack first. This is as ludicrous as the other lies and attacks.

I am addressing it only because there are younger voters and some other readers who may not know much about me. I was born and grew up on a small farm in the Stann Creek valley with my great grandparents, my mother’s grandparents who had adopted her. The 11 acres for the farm was part of the land reform that Right Honourable George Price secured in the 60s. My great grandfather worked as a laborer at HTA Bowman farms as a regular worker, cleaning bush and harvesting citrus during that early time. While I grew up, we had no running water to our little house, no electricity, no indoor bathroom. We had a fireheart outside under a different thatched house and a small creek to get water.

Praise God, we always had food on the table, even if it was only tortilla and fever grass tea. Both my great grandparents, even though neither was literate, worked very hard, pushed for our education, and insisted on Christian values. They were of mestizo origin. Their eldest son’s first daughter is my mother. My mother (may she continue to rest in peace) was a beautiful young lady and her grandfather on her mother’s side came from Honduras, a tall African decent, dark-skinned man. I never had the privilege or opportunity to meet him. If he was from Honduras with those features, then tell me who was he? In our home all were welcome.

I never knew what racism was nor ever heard about it. My stepfather, may he rest in peace, was an African decent creole man. My younger brother and sister, I love dearly. As do I love all my closest friends - 90% who are Garifuna. Both my mom’s younger sisters married African descent men - my uncles, who I love dearly. I did not experience racism until I went to college in the US on a USAID scholarship. I was astonished to see in the cafeteria tables with only white students, tables with only black students, tables with only Mexican students, and tables with only international students. This was quite shocking and unacceptable to me.

When I sat down with our Party Leader about two and a half years ago to discuss my interest in becoming a standard bearer for the PUP, both Dangriga and Belmopan came up as possible Constituencies. I was clear with the PL that Dangriga was my sure choice.

While I know many of the wonderful people in Belmopan, it is in Dangriga that I have my roots. I wish to give back to the people who have given me so much…

Oscar Mira, Belmopan

and Jalacte.

We hope these farmers can get some help. We also met the UDP promising and politicizing the help by taking the NAVCO representative to try and fool the people but the message from our people is clear.

Election Day, we will vote Oscar…##Plan Belize## Hon. Francis Fonseca, Freetown

It was my pleasure to meet with Bishop A Moses Benguche of the Methodist Church Belize/ Honduras District and his Education Management Team to discuss our Education Policy Plan. The Methodist Church and Community continue to play an increasingly important role in our education system. I appreciated our very open and robust discussion.

Louis Zabaneh, Dangriga LEADERSHIP FOR THE PEOPLE. What matters most is to know the real conditions people are living in, what their aspirations are, and for them to know that I will be serving their best interest. This is a building of trust and understanding. It is about being humble, open minded, and willing to do things the right way. It is also about knowing that the UDPs will try all kinds of nasty and illegal things to try to stay in power and to try to negatively affect the trust I have built and contin-

Sources have indicated that PC Ical has found his way back to the OP. We want to express our happiness and hope PC Ical is reunited with his family as soon as possible.

Shoulder to shoulder!

Solidarity with the BDF, the Police and PC Ical’s Family.

Many times, when I was an Officer in the BDF, I patrolled that very same area where PC Ical went missing. It is very difficult terrain and it is easy to get disoriented. In fact many years ago, I took part in the search for a patrol that had gotten lost and disoriented in that very same area. That time, we found everyone alive and in good spirits.

Prosperity and Security for All! #TeamMira #PlanBelize #Blu Candice Pitts, Mesopotamia September 8, we observe International Literacy Day, 2020.

This year’s theme focuses on “Literacy teaching and learning in the COVID-19 crisis and beyond.”

Continued on page 26

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THE BELIZE TIMES

13 SEP

2020

Continued from page 25 As a society, we know that people with little or no literacy skills face many disadvantages. Many are unable to: -understand and apply for medical assistance -apply for employment -understand and apply for other social benefits -understand the laws that govern them and our country -critically elect leaders to govern them and our country (et cetera) The COVID-19 pandemic has posed more challenges to the objective of increasing Belize’s literacy rate.

For instance, virtual classrooms have created an urgency to bridge the digital divide in our country. Likewise, our educators must become innovative and ensure both their children and adult literacy programs evolve with the times.

As an educator, our candidate has always been a proponent of reading and reading critically. Literacy, for her, is a human right that serves to advance human dignity.

Last year, she spent Literacy Day reading with the children at Queen Square Anglican School.

This year, she encourages parents and guardians to use the extra time at home because of the COVID-19 restrictions to read, to read with their children and grandchildren, and to teach them about the importance and benefits of literacy and living in a literate society.

“Once you learn to read, you will be forever free.” ~Fredrick Douglass As a nation, we are facing some difficult times.

But, BELIZE is a resilient nation.

And, Belizeans are a uniquely blessed people.

Together, we will do better! #InternationalLiteracyDay2020 #knowlegeispower #readingispower #candicepitts #mesopotamiaschoice2020 Allan Pollard, Queen’s Square

Good Morning Everyone!

If you’re not yet registered in Queen Square! Come on out and ensure that you’re on the list to vote in this year’s General Election! The Time Is Now Belize!

“Queen Square, let’s embrace a new beginning... one that is filled with hope and great optimism for the empowerment of a neglected and abandoned people. We have a chance now to free ourselves from the bondage and shackles that have been placed on us for decades. It is now or never... We have a chance to end the oppression and herald in a new era... let’s open all the doors and windows and let the light shine in Queen Square!! #planBelize #AllanPollardforQueenSquare #TheTimeIsNow #VOTE

who have been neglected and punished all these years under a UDP Government.

Tantos MILLONES recibidos por el UDP y los Beliceños sin TRABAJO, sin DINERO, sin COMIDA. El UDP se tiene que ir!!!

El CAMBIO EMPIESA AHORA!! EL CAMBIO ES CON EL PARTIDO UNIDO DEL PUEBLO (PUP) El Cambio empieza AHORA y solo lo tendremos con un Gobierno del Partido Unido del Pueblo.

Caledonia esta listo para el cambio. Corozal Sureste esta Listo con el Honorable Florencio Marin, Jr. PUP ALL THE WAY #nacimosparaganar #trueblue #Nacidoparaganar #pupalltheway David ‘Dido’ Vega, Corozal Bay

David J. Castillo, Corozal North

La humildad es una base fuerte que caracteriza un lider. Adelante con David J. Castillo.

Unidos cinstruiremos un Corozal Norte fuerto y prospero.

Adónde está el dinero para ayudarle a la gente de Corozal North?

Adónde se a usado todo estos millones?

Por doce años el UDP ha abandonado a Corozal y la área de Corozal Norte. Por doce años la gente de Corozal han sufrido abajo este gobierno. Ya es tiempo para un cambio!

Ya es tiempo para sacar el UDP! Ya es tiempo de votar para el PUP! #daveforcorozalnorth #planbelize #changeiscomming

Alex Balona, Cayo Central

Ramiro Ramirez, Corozal Southwest

The time to vote is near!

Make your choice clear!

ALEX BALONA CAYO CENTRAL #VOTEALEXBALONA #BLU2020

Hon. Florencio Marin Jr., Corozal Southeast On Election Day Vote for a Humble, Honest, Compassionate and Genuine True Leader, The Honorable Florencio Marin Jr. Mr. Florencio is a man for his people and he will bring progress to Corozal Southeast

Ramon ‘Monchi’ Cervantes, Orange Walk North Lookout for the Talkshow: To The Point The San Antonio Rio Hondo Village Council: Let’s stay home if there is no need. However, for essential workers, front line employees, and all those hard working Belizeans, access to basic public transportation means a lot.

Continued on page 27

13 SEP

2020

THE BELIZE TIMES

Continued from page 26

27

As we prepare to face another 2020 challenge, I pray for the safety and well-being of my Caribbean Shores constituents and all Belizeans.

Navigating through a storm and a global pandemic is not easy.

Let us remember to observe COVID protocols, keep an extra eye on our elderly citizens, assist the vulnerable and less fortunate and protect our families and children.

2020 has thrown its punches, but we are resilient, we are strong and together we will rise. #TeamKareem #TimetoRise #Blu #BluShores #Belize #Vote2020 Jorge ‘Milin’ Espat, Cayo West

Having an adequate bus stop provides shelter. In this current situation, the beautification of a bus stop can provide a sense of hope and relaxation for our daily commuters.

Let’s keep our bus stop clean and beautiful. San Antonio Rio Hondo Village Council works completed on the beautification of the bus stop. # stay home safe. May God bless us all.

Orlando Habet, Cayo Northeast

Today, along with members of my Moratown and Santa Familia Committees, we were able to supply Drinking water and water for washing and bathing. Santa Familia was going through their fourth consecutive day without this basic and indispensable resource.

I want to thank my hard working committee for their selfless work in the distribution of the water. Thanks to Mr. Daniel Habet for assisting with the 9000 gals of river water, my committee for the purchase of one truckload of potable drinking water and the MOW through Chief Engineer Bradley for assisting with one Bowser of potable water.

I also thank Chairlady Karen Carrias for accompanying the MOW driver to assist in the distribution in some areas of the village.

Special thanks to Ms. Joyce Tun, Ryan Cano, Anthony Morris, and Silas Sabal for distributing in smaller loads to those families not accessible in smaller trucks.

Thanks Arthur ‘Turo’ Smith for always being there. And to Mrs. Sandra Morris for the arrangements for the potable water and in assisting with direction and management of the team.

Voting: What difference does it make? When every person casts their vote they make their opinions and voices heard. You decide the direction our country must take to improve and move forward. You elect a representative who fights for your interests and who will support its people. #TodosGanamosConLandy #VoteBLU Hon. Rodwell Ferguson, Stann Creek West The grind is on the election is getting closer no turning back. My visit to Silk Grass today was a success.

Every politician must cover their own turf but this one is wide open to be taken. It will be a huge victory in Silk Grass for myself and the PUP. Thank you for letting me into your homes.// My visit to Placencia today was very fruitful the people welcome me into their homes I am no stranger to them most of them are my in-laws.

They come to realize that it is time for a change of Government. This is the first time ever they express to me the difficulties they are facing as a people, history is in the making, Placencia will vote for me this time because they know what I am capable of doing to make their lives better. Thank you Charles Leslie Jr. for accompanying me and my team.

¡TU VOTO TIENE PODER! Benque Viejo, San Jose Succotz, Arenal, Calla Creek and Corozalito, we need your support!

Over the last 2 decades, the area representative has had more than enough time to completely transform Cayo West by boosting our economy and securing jobs for our people. Instead, he has only secured wealth for himself, family and close friends. Their formula to winning elections has been with voters from across the border and by creating a culture of dependency with handouts and Election Day paydays. Handouts are short term assistance that can only mean one thing: Your voice and vote have been bargained.

We need to start thinking about the long-term effect rather than the short-term relief.

Remember that bribery means food for today, hunger for tomorrow.

Cayo West needs to attract investment to create sustainable jobs. We need to embrace tourism and inject investment into the development of our tourism in which we have massive potential; we must lobby for an equitable distribution of the revenue that comes from our local sites and tourist attraction points. We need durable infrastructure that won’t be overpriced and in which we get value for our dollar; Roads for Cayo West,

by Cayo West- Built by our own people. We need a health system that works- with the necessary equipment and medical personnel to be able to reach even the most remote areas. We need access to land and affordable housing. We need assistance to develop our agricultural sector and boost our local market to sell our produce. We need a real plan to combat crime, poverty and corruption. We need so much more. We need a LEADER! Milin Espat understands that an area representative has massive responsibility over those whom he serves. But people also have a moral obligation to make good decisions; the masses decide an election. Nothing is accomplished when we become complacent about things that affect us. Be part of the movement to change our path. Our fight against corruption and injustices must be fuelled with consistent commitment and participation.

There is greater force when we all sing at the same time and with the same rhythm. In essence, we must work together to make great things happen for Cayo West!

Let’s start by spreading the message of hope: Cayo West now has a LEADER that

Hon. Kareem Musa, Caribbean Shores will win and will work for EVERYONE! Get registered on time and Vote in November! Together, we will change the depressive path in which they have led us and transform it into a highway of success and great achievements! !Con MILIN, TODOS ganamos! #2020añodelCAMBIO Let’s do this! We are in this to WIN! Everybody fi WIN! Please remain safe. Follow the recommendations given by health authorities and protect your family and Community. We are optimistic about a brighter day for Belize. God bless you all!

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

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13 SEP

2020 United Democratic Party Commitments 2015 Manifesto

PART II (16 TO 30 OF 44 BROKEN PROMISES, UDP STYLE) #

Broken Promise

16.

Expand internet penetration to 50% countrywide

17.

18.

19.

20.

21.

22.

23.

24.

25.

26.

27.

28.

29.

30.

Outcome

Whatever does this mean? One of every two persons will have easy access to the Internet? Not even close. The Internet is still prohibitive as is UDP’s usual ways of incompetence. Today in 2020, many in rural parts of Belize still do not know what it is to use the internet daily. During the Great and other lockdowns lack of the Internet is dangerous for our society. It is right up there with water, light and maybe food.

Construct three new hospitals: Western Regional, San Pablo was busy acquiring medicines for hospitals that routinely lacked the basics. Many Pedro & Punta Gorda building have been misnamed ‘Polyclinic’ where they are only the Health Ministry’s version of Imer’s infrastructure. So New Hospitals are the UDP’s sick joke.

Implement solid waste systems in the Northern & Just maybe they meant the corridors of some of the mansions built by the INSANELY Southern Corridors rich UDP. Poor Belizeans got poorer. PUPs Expand electricity to remote rural areas using solar en- Is this like the electric cars promised by the PM at his Independence Day lecture? ergy technology Construct a forward operating base at the Sarstoon A building that faked at being an FoB was build but is Inadequate, Unsafe; A BDF soldier lost an eye there; The UDP and Saldivar FAILED to build it right ON Sarstoon Island.

Procure two helicopters to enhance the work of our se- Procure probably meant that the UDP has to routinely rents helicopters. This even as curity forces & emergency personnel Belize has a couple helicopters always grounded since UDP’s incompetence is so virulent and contagious. Talking about Helicopter we are still waiting for the final report on the downed Helicopter that caused the death of four of our airmen. Family compensation?

Invest $70 million in national security initiatives Via Dermen? When will this initiate?

Offer free specialized clinics in all residential & non-resi- Pablo dreamt this one day and is his broken promise number umpteenth. Now with dential centers for the elderly as a way to control chron- COVID-19 cataclysm threatening, the UDP might was to apologize for building roads ic & non-communicable disease. These special clinics instead of hospitals will be established in centers where the elderly can feel comfortable Expand the Food Pantry program to other districts Who is really helped in this “politically contaminated” program? And, no it hasn’t been rolled out to other districts. No surprise there. The Covid food program the UDP piddled all over it Restructure the overall taxation system to ensure equity There was no change in the instance of equity. Imagine the new General Tax Services & fairness in collection, & to encourage economic stim- made a multimillion dollar loan. For what? They should collect taxes and make loans. ulation Transition to a Single Revenue Authority that coordinates A last minute introduction marred by the appointment of the wife of a tarred politician all government tax collection agencies & introduces a rewarded to diplomat that might be remanded without passing Go. The investigation to common Tax Identification Number this tarred NY diplomat is still on brakes and his wife still have the job she is so unqualified for at the Tax Services department.

Put more people to work through job matching & train- Ask your favourite UDP rep(try finding them in this COVID-19 time) what they mean by ing based on market demand this.

Reduce the cost of high speed internet to bolster eco- BELIZE is in FULL economic recession and the UDP is blaming Covid. The recession nomic growth began officially when a 2nd quarter of contraction was announced I December 2019.

Barrow “dodged” the IMF then when the SIB updated their numbers. Poll: Was this a deliberate omission?

Strengthen National Standards & Quality Controls to Belize still massively imports even basic food items that could be locally produced. Today, the Government doesn’t know how to handle local food, it marketing and its sale protect consumers & enhance competitiveness to bolster local consumption and increase exports.

Allow homeowners a chance to retain their hard earned The pages of the newspapers are continually laden with properties that are being foreequity by enabling banks to extend the period to write closed. off residential mortgages to 10 years

Get to the Next Edition of the Belize Times to see the last of the UDP broken promises of November 2015.

13 SEP

2020

THE BELIZE TIMES

Monthly World Gasoline & Diesel prices review

The average price of gasoline/diesel around the world is 7.70/6.92 Belize Dollars per gallon Gasoline prices, Octane-95/ Diesel 9-September-2020: However, there is substantial difference in these prices among countries. As a general rule, richer countries have higher prices while poorer countries and the countries that produce and export oil have significantly lower prices. The differences in prices across countries are due to the various taxes and subsidies for gasoline. All countries have access to the same petroleum prices of international markets but then decide to impose different taxes. As a result, the retail price of gasoline/diesel is different. (https://www.globalpetrolprices.com/gasoline_prices/) *are updated weekly. The data for the remaining countries are updated monthly.

Ed. Note: The UDP has virtually left office and as one can see in the chart really ALL the countries in our region have lower gasoline(better octane fuel) and lower diesel prices than Belize. Even after their promises of lower fuel prices and even an Oil Refinery, the UDP government continues their senseless policy of taxing anything that is being consumed even fuel.

The UDP collects fuel taxes which causes higher product prices which yield them GST bonanzas.

This form of taxation kills Belizean entrepreneurship and dampens consumer spending especially now in the times of the coronavirus pandemic.

The UDP in now in FIVE consecutive quarters of recession, they wonder why? Their roughshod infra(Price per Gallon in Belize Dollars) Countries Gasoline (Octane 95) Diesel Haiti 4.02 3.21 Colombia* 4.31 4.34 Panamá* 5.00 4.14 Puerto Rico 5.08 3.78 USA* 5.17 4.88 El Salvador* 5.28 4.39 Guyana 5.74 5.85 Guatemala* 5.85 4.61 Brazil* 5.92 4.68 Taiwan* 6.22 5.13 Trinidad & Tobago 6.47 3.84 Nicaragua* 6.54 5.46 Honduras 6.61 5.23 Dominica 6.63 5.74 Mexico* 6.73 6.92 Australia* 6.90 6.76 China* 6.92 5.98 Dominican Rep.* 7.22 5.20 Canada* 7.33 5.85 Jamaica* 7.48 7.15 Costa Rica* 7.31 5.70 Saint Lucia* 7.52 6.68 Bahamas 7.93 7.17 Grenada* 8.19 7.49 Cuba 9.14 7.61 Belize 9.36 8.40 Japan* 9.40 7.96 Barbados* 11.94 9.18

structure projects benefit only Imer and the UDP appetite for cronyism.

The coronavirus has been here only for two quarters.

Belize cannot be over taxed into recovery. This results in a citizenship that suffers.

Only the PUP has the oomph needed to take Belize forward regardless of the UDP’s irresponsible borrow, borrow, Barrow.

Barrow’s view is that ONLY Barrow can rule. Yes, only Dean Barrow can rule senselessly.

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NOTICE OF COMMENCEMENT OF DISSOLUTION Notice is hereby given to all interested parties that the company BILLION VALUE CO., LTD. (“the Company”) incorporated under the IBC Act of Belize commenced dissolution on the 25th day of August, 2020; and SHAO, SHU-CHEN of No. 4F, NO. 8, LN. 150, Daoxiang Rd., Beitou Dist., Taipei, Taiwan, R.O.C. is the Liquidator of the Company, and any claims against the company should be forwarded to the Liquidator within 30 days from commencement.

GenPro Consulting (Belize) Limited.

Registered Agent

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE September 7th 2020

PUBLIC APOLOGY ISSUED TO BELIZE BREWING CO., LTD Belize City, Belize – August 18th, 2020 — Claim No: 58 of 2020, brought by Belize Brewing Company, Ltd against Erick Ernesto Villalta DBA Mountain Cool, was settled in the Supreme Court of Belize. The claim was brought against Mr. Villalta due to his marketing and distribution of water in bottles branded with the Crystal Water logo and which are the property of Bowen & Bowen, Ltd. As part of the settlement, Mr. Villalta has issued a public apology for the breach of the “Crystal Water” Trademark Registration and has also agreed to no longer sell or market water in the Crystal Water branded five-gallon containers.

The public is advised that any attempt to market, distribute, or sell any product in containers branded or labeled with the markings of a Bowen & Bowen, Ltd and Companies trademark will be considered as trademark infringement and legal action will be taken to seek recourse and damages.

### ~ Taste You Can Trust ~ The Crystal Bottling Company is part of Bowen & Bowen, Ltd and Companies. Established in 1942, Crystal has provided Belizeans with high-quality beverages, including purified water, carbonated and non-carbonated flavoured drinks, and juices. Crystal has set the industry standard for the quality of products it delivers to Belizean consumers.

Media Contact: B&B|Beverages John Palacio 1 King Street Belize City, Belize Mb: +501 606-8807 Email: jpalacio@bowen.bz

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THE BELIZE TIMES

STANDARD BEARERS

2020

Belize Rural Central: Dolores Balderamos Garcia

ON THE MOVE Cayo West: Jorge ‘Milin’ Espat

Mesopotamia: Candice Pitts

Collet: Oscar Arnold

Corozal Southeast: Florencio Marin Jr.

EVERYBODY FI WIN!

planBelize

TODOS GANAMOS!

13 SEP

31

THE BELIZE TIMES

2020

STANDARD BEARERS

Cayo Northwest: Landy Habet

ON THE MOVE Stann Creek West: Rodwell Ferguson

Toledo West: Oscar Requena

EVERYBODY FI WIN!

planBelize

TODOS GANAMOS!

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THE BELIZE TIMES

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2020