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Specials and Events
Last night's TV news on Channel 7, Channel 5, LOVETV, PGTV, West Vision (Cayo) and CTV 3. Also with the most recent Open Your Eyes, Rise and Shine Morning Show, and the Dickie Bradley Specials
The San Pedro Sun
Belize Red Cross appeals to help Haiti after Hurricane Matthew
During the first week of October, Belize was spared from the impact of Hurricane Matthew, a fierce category four hurricane that swept across the Caribbean and central Florida, USA. For countries like Haiti, Matthew did damage beyond repair, with an estimated two million people affected. The latest figures indicate that over 900 people in Haiti have lost their lives, and the Belize Red Cross (BRC) has expressed its solidarity, working around the clock to ender aid to the victims.40-haiti-hurricane-victims-epa-orlando-barria
The BRC announced on Friday, October 7th that the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent (IFRC) societies have launched an emergency appeal for $6.9 million to provide medical, shelter, water and sanitation assistance to 50,000 people ravaged by the storm in the southwest portion of Haiti.
According to the press release issued by the IFRC, Matthew's torrential rains and winds have flooded towns and roads, destroyed homes and buildings and collapsed the main bridge in the south, making the affected areas extremely difficult to reach.
Caye Notes: Garifuna Council Fundraiser and Bird Watching in San Pedro
The National Garifuna Council San Pedro Branch (NGCSPB) will be hosting their second food sale fundraiser on Saturday, October 15th at the Central Park. Starting at 11AM, you can purchase staple Garifuna staple dishes such as hudut for $10, and boil-up for $12. Rice and beans will also be available for $7 and up The NGCSPB asks for the community's support to help them fundraise for their upcoming festivities planned for Garifuna Settlement Day (Saturday, November 19th).
The Belize Audubon Society invites everyone in San Pedro to come and learn about the birds in your area. No need to register, just show up at Central Park at 6AM on Sunday the 16th.
International friendly match between Belize Jaguars and Honduras ends 2-1
The Belize National Football Team (Jaguars) took on the National Football Team from Honduras in an international friendly match on Saturday, October 4th at the Football Federation of Belize (FFB) stadium in the city of Belmopan. The Jaguars gave the Catrachos a tough game, but lost to the visitors in a 2-1 game score.
The game started at 4PM and Belizeans from many parts of the country made their way to the FFB stadium to support the national team. Among the well- known Belizean football stars was Belize Pro Footballer of the Montreal Impacts, Michael Salazar, who travelled to Belize to play in the match. The game was in preparation for the upcoming matches on the road to the World Cup Russia 2018.
Miss Belize Universe, Rebecca Rath visits Ambergris Caye
Miss Belize Universe 2016 and Dangriga's beauty ambassador, Rebecca Rath, visited Ambergris Caye on Sunday, October 10th. The visit was a part of her preparation process before her upcoming participation in the Miss Universe Pageant on January 29, 2017 in Manila, Philippines. During her visit to La Isla Bonita, Rath took the opportunity to mingle with residents and continue her training for the international pageant.
While in San Pedro Town, Rath was trained by Enrique de Leon, who has vast experience in pageants and works along with the Miss Belize Organization. He emphasized that the pageant is as much about Belize as it is about Rath, and that by visiting as many parts of the country, it will help her portray that Belizean experience when she goes to the pageant in the Philippines. "As an Organization, we are looking to promote all that we offer as a country when she goes to the pageant," said de Leon. "Everything that Rebecca takes with her will give a true picture of what Miss Belize is with the support of what the country has to offer to the world."
Ambergris Today
CG Esthetics Showcases New Skin Care Product
Guest were greeted with wine and Mrs. Dawn Kennedy Shake showcased a new skin care product line to customers and friends of CG Esthetics on Wednesday, October 12, 2016. Carol Goudreau, owner of CG Esthetics was happy to host the 'happy hour' event.
A small presentation about the product and how it works was given, while Carol greeted her guest with wine and snacks. Those interested took the opportunity to sample the product for free as Ms. Dawn stands by the product 100%. The new skin care product is only available in the U.S. and Canada, but is being made available in Belize through CG Esthetics. It is recommended for both male and female from age 16 and older.
Misc Belizean Sources
NEMO Minister of State Hon Edmond Castro Hands Over Houses to Hurricane Earl Victims in the Stann Creek District
Minister of State for National Emergency Management Hon. Edmond Castro was in the Stann Creek District yesterday, Wednesday October 12, 2016 officially handing over houses to victims of Hurricane Earl.
Accompanied by Area Representative for Dangriga Hon. Frank "Papa" Mena and NEMO Dangriga Coordinator Victor Castillo, Hon. Castro handed over houses to four families in Dangriga and one in the village of Santa Rosa in the Stann Creek District.
These are part of a total of over 180 houses that are being constructed by the Government of Belize through NEMO, more than 60 of which are already completed. More than 80 roofs have also been repaired and more than 1,400 families assisted with materials to repair their homes in the four districts most affected by Hurricane Earl, namely Belize District, Cayo, Orange Walk and Stann Creek.
Belize Raptor Research Institute's Annual Bird-a-thon
This year, Ian Anderson's Caves Branch Jungle Lodge captured the championship title of the Belize Raptor Research Institute's Annual Bird-a-thon Competition. Renowned birder aficiondao Roni Martinez handed over the H. Lee Jones Cup with the Caves Branch Jungle Lodge plate now included on the trophy and this has now taken up a residence on our wall of fame. This means Caves Branch Jungle Lodge Estate has been named the "Birdiest" destination in Belize!
Contract signed for FIFA standard lights at Marion Jones
I am pleased as the Minister responsible for sports in Belize to announce that a contract has been signed between UNOPs (United Naions Office for Projects) and the Maheia Constuction Group for the installation of FIFA standards lights at the Marion Jones Sporting Complex. This is indeed a milestone as we continously strive to make Marion Jones the premier sporting facility in the country. It is only through partnership that this development becomes possible. Thanks goes out to the Government of Mexico who is one of such parners.
Wow. Tourists can anchor with cement blocks off the coast of San Pedro
Yes the cinder block is how these tourist anchor on our World Heritage Site while they fish without licences and snorkel without tour guides. It seems no government agency will step up to be responsible for monitoring or enforcing rules and regulations in this area.
Orange Walk BNTU Branch manager victim of vandalism
This is what the vehicle belonging
to Otilio Mu�oz, president of BNTU Orange Walk looks like.
Candle Light Vigil and Ecumenical Service headed by the BNTU Corozal Town Branch
Yesterday October 12th, 2016 at around 6:45 p.m. were overwhelmingly welcomed by our Corozal community.
Today is an important day as the BNTU goes back to the table to negotiate with the Government. We ask that the Prime Minister be humbled and adhere to the cries of our nation, his nation.
The village of Sarteneja makes a desperate public plea to the Government of Belize on behalf of its fisher folk
As a result of several terrorizing incidents at sea that have been building up of recent, and put the lives of our Corozal fishers at high risk. One individual is still unaccounted for at sea in a recent pirate attack.
"Por favor, necesitamos ayuda por nuestros pescadores" (Please, we need help for our fishers), exclaimed a woman at a community meeting in Sarteneja held last Friday. The previous Sunday, Sarteneja villagers received news of yet another tragic loss of life: Vicente Villamil was the latest victim of pirate attacks against Sarteneja fishers at sea, which have occurred with increasing frequency and violence in the last few years.
The men carrying out the attacks operate as a group under the pretence of being fishers, and use a fast skiff with a large engine. They are heavily armed and unafraid to use physical violence. They target legitimate fishing boats, threatening the crew, stealing their products and stripping their boats of all valuables before leaving. Some fishers have been left drifting on boats with nothing but slashed sails, others thrown overboard in deep water in the middle of the night to fend for themselves. One man was thrown tied up and unconscious into the boat's icebox, while another spent four months in the hospital recovering from injuries sustained in an attack. Five have disappeared and are presumed to be dead. No one has been charged or brought to justice for these coward violent attacks.
The attacks are focused along the cayes 15 miles east of Dangriga and extending north towards Belize City. This region, which straddles Area 2 and Area 3 of the Managed Access Program, is known to be extremely productive fishing grounds, particularly important for conch fishing. Fishers do not want to be forced to leave their traditional fishing grounds, but similarly feel afraid to continue fishing where their lives are at risk.
Dia de los Muertos & Los Finados
Although, the Day of the Dead/All Souls Day (known as Dia de los Muertos & Los Finados) is most prominently recognized and celebrated in Mexico it is also very popular in many villages and towns in Belize. This is due to the fact that the tradition of celebrating the life and death of loved relatives dates back to the ancient Maya's Hanal Pixan. This celebration is also linked to Catholicism, the primary religion in Belize. On el Dia de los Muertos, Maya and Mestizo communities across the country unanimously get together to commemorate the life and death of ancestors. This is done by decorating small tables as altars at home and including water, flowers, fruits, sweets, candles and portraits of their deceased. Families make sure to have delicious traditional Belizean foods such as Tamales, Bollos, Caldo de Gallina local, Chirmole and Xpasha atole. These altars may also include favorite alcoholic drinks, rum and tequila. Families visit the cementery and carry along wreaths, candles, flowers and food which are placed on the graves of their beloved departed. Family members pray and thank their dead relatives for being a part of their lives and wish them the best in the afterlife.
�Feliz Dia de los Muertos! Happy All Souls Day!
Project Support Officer
The Belize City House of Culture and Downtown Rejuvenation Project i slooking for a Project Support Officer
Meet the Author Book reading featuring Ms.Zee Edgell
A very special thank you to everyone who made our 'Time and the River' Meet the Author Book reading featuring Ms.Zee Edgell possible. There's still time to pre-order a copy of 'Time and the River', call 223-4524 to reserve your auto-graphed copy by Friday Oct.14th, 2016.
BPP calls for additional conditions regarding good governance in Belize
Amid the extreme crisis in governance that has gripped the nation, the Belize Progressive Party (BPP) reiterates its solid support of the BNTU in its yeoman's effort to ensure the government of Belize (GOB) adopts, implements, and adheres to good governance practices and principles. In this regard, we encourage all unions, civil society organisations, the private sector, and tertiary level teachers and students to become actively involved in the BNTU's just act of civil expression via industrial action.
To add to the discourse, in the name of bringing not only an expression, but also the practice of good governance principles to the fore, the BPP champions the call for voter re-registration and re-districting to be held, on schedule, on or before 2017. Of note, 2017 will mark 20 years since any such re-registration exercise! After all, with the electorate's franchise being fundamental to the democratic process, Belize can no longer afford to allow for outdated voters lists to erode the integrity of the electoral process.
Forum on The Contemporary Maya in Northern and Southern Belize
Members of the Maya group of Corozal (Yucatec Maya) "U ka Sijih le Mayahob" have been invited to participate in a two day forum at The University of Chetumal Quintana Roo (UCQROO) to discuss the topic of The Contemporary Maya in Northern and Southern Belize. Let's preserve our identity as Mayas of Northern Belize,(Corozal and Orange Walk)
Belize Screen on the Green - October
Belize Screen on the Green is featuring the move "Little Shop of Horros" for October! Bring the family and enjoy this classic.
As always, movie starts at dark and popcorn and refreshments will be served for free (while they last). See you there!
Thursday, October 20 at 6 PM - 9 PM at
Governor General Field,
Ring Road, Belmopan, Belize
Paradise Theater playing this weekend:
Skiptrace,
Nerve,
Ice Age,
Lights Out.
Due to multiple requests .. on Friday night ONLY we'll be replaying the Conjuring 2 at 7pm on Screen 1 in substitute of Skiptrace .. Skiptrace will play Saturday and Sunday on Screen 1
.. p.s. October is the month of Horror movies .. keep an eye out the next couple of upcoming weekends
Fundraiser for National Garifuna Council SP Branch
National Garifuna Counsel San Pedro Branch Food Sale this Saturday October 15 , 2016. We thank you in advance for your support. Please place you orders early. Don't miss out. We would like to take the time to Thank our Town's Mayor Mr. Daniel Guerrero and The Town Counsel's events committee for all their support as we prepare for our Garifuna Settlement Day Festivities. Special mention" Miss Daniela Guerrero" Thank you so much. We also thank the members of the Garifunal counsel and all those who donate to make these sales a success. And last but not least, we express our gratitude to all those of you who purchased last week and humbly invite those of you who have not as yet to do this Saturday. See you there!!!!!!!!
Channel 7
BNTU and PM Meet for 3.5 Hours, No Breakthrough
The Teachers Union and Prime Minister Dean Barrow met for about three and a half hours today - from 2:00 to 5:30. At the end of it, the PM held a press conference which just concluded, and the teachers are now meeting to consider what he proposed. Our team is just returning from the press conference - and we'll have all the major details for you in tonight's news, but what we can tell you at this hour is that the Prime Minister agreed to most of their governance demands but did not give a timeline. That's what the teachers union is pondering at this hour, and we're closely monitoring the outcome of their deliberations - so stay tuned for that.
Chamber Passes Resolution To Shutdown, Eventually
But, the Chamber of Commerce is also an important part of the dynamic. That organization is also part of the negotiations with government, and it is making its own demands. Last night, at the end of a contentious meeting, their membership voted in favour of two resolutions last night at their Special General Meeting.
The first is that their Senator, Mark Lizarraga, will only participate in the Senate Inquiry to investigate the Auditor General's Findings at the Immigration Department if certain conditions are met. The Government has to reconstitute its membership with the amended terms of reference. Bottom line? The Prime Minister is basically being told to limit Government membership on the Senate Select Committee to only one, and the investigation powers of the Committee will have to be broadened.
Man Detained For Setting DPM Vehicle On Fire, Faber says Family Shaken
Police have detained a Belize City man for setting the Deputy Prime Minister's vehicle on fire. As we reported, the vehicle was parked at Patrick Faber's home in Lord's Bank on Tuesday at midnight when a man jumped the fence and set the vehicle on fire on plain view of security cameras. 7News has learned from police that the man has confessed his involvement and has alleged that someone set him up to do it. While police investigate that angle, he is expected to be charged tomorrow. Today, Faber spoke for the first time since the fire. We met him at another event today, and he was noticeably still shaken after the vehicle fire. He told us his only concern is for his kids who were traumatized. Faber also threw out a few ideas as to why he was targeted, the main motive being politics.
Aragon Says Supporters Did Not Smash Union Leader's Windshield
But first, the teachers strike continued today - and many parents who have kids at home learning little more than Sponge Bob's latest tricks are losing their patience. Simultaneously, politicians from the ruling UDP are under increasing pressure to get things back to normal - because every day that the strike continues is an indictment against their governance practices. Either of those two factors could have led to what happened last night: Otilio Munoz's windshield was smashed. He's the president of the Orange Walk Branch of the Teachers Union and this morning he woke up to find that someone had done this to his windshield. Union activists suggest that the UDP is behind it. We asked Orange Walk East Area Representative Elodio Aragon about it today:�
Jules Vasquez:
"There are suggestions, just like there were suggestions when Mr. Faber's vehicle was set on fire, that someone sympathetic to the BNTU may have done that, there is a suggestion that the UDP loyalists are the ones who smashed Mr. Otilio windshield what do you have to say about that?"
PM Makes Many Compromises
So as we told you at the top of this segment, the Prime Minister held a press conference at the end of his over 3 hour meeting with the teachers unions. Here now are his comments about what transpired in the meeting, mostly unedited.
Rt. Hon. Dean Barrow - Prime Minister:
"With respect to item number 1 which is the senate select committee, the BNTU is still concerned as I understand it about the composition though not about the terms of reference. Their focus was on composition because they would like to see the government side go down to 1. That is not government's view, government insisted that the motion that was passed when the Senate met a week or so ago is what should stand. We feel that government having 2 senators will not in any way interfere with the ability of the senate select committee to do its job impartially.."
PM Responds To Opposition On Senate Select Committee
As you heard earlier on, the Chamber's resolution becomes yet another harsh criticism of the current Senate probe that is already on the move to start its investigation of the Immigration Department. As we showed you yesterday, none of the Social Partners were prepared to accept the Chairmanship yesterday at the first meeting of the committee.
The principal concerns are that the Government currently has too much influence on the tribunal. The call is for the Prime Minister to ask one of his 2 senators to step down from the Committee.
As you heard, he was not prepared to do that.
So, The PUP also continues to question the resolve of the Prime Minister to thoroughly investigate the Auditor General's reports. At every stage of the process, the Opposition has been accusing the ruling party of trying to obstruct the path to a thorough Senate probe.
Lights For Marion Jones Complex
And switching to now to another kind of transparency in public life, the media was called today to witness the signing of a contract for the installation of lights on the football field at the Marion Jones Sporting Complex. Now, you mightn't even know that there is a field at the stadium - but it's there, alright, just buried under some dense overgrowth. Well, now as part of the ongoing plan to revive that moribund facility, the field is being resurrected. And while the signing of a contract to put up four lights wouldn't normally draw national media attention - this one did because it's the first contract awarded under an agreement with the Mexican Government. The Mexicans gave Belize a grant of 5 million US dollars for a sports facility at Marion Jones. What's novel about the grant is that it is being administered through an organization called UNOPS, the United Nations Office For Project Services. That means no hanky-panky politics in the awarding of the contracts; this money is administered by a UN Agency. Maheia's construction won the 450 thousand dollar contract to construct what are called "Class Two lights" and they signed the contract today. Here's more:�
Plans For New Stadium Unveiled
And today the Ministry of Sports also unveiled the plans for the real centerpiece of the Mexican funded project, which is a nine million dollar multipurpose volleyball and basketball facility - which will be placed on the same Marion Jones grounds, to the east of the main structure. It's a major sports complex, and this is also being administered by UNOPS - and is slated for completion in February 2018. Sharp outlined the basic details:�
Allan Sharp - Steering Committee Member:
"The basketball and volleyball facility which will be built just to the north of here which will have 4 training courts which can be converted to one main court with 2 side courts and the facility will be able to hold 1500 people but I think the main part of the project that government is trying to push is that sport needs facilities."
The "No-Kickback" Contract
But every stage of the project, from design to tendering is managed by UNOPS - no contracts are being assigned, awarded or influenced by anyone in government. That's a sharp deviation from business as usual - and usually, "business" means someone pockets a kickback. In fact, the Marion Jones Stadium where today's event was hosted might be a prime example of that. But that can't happen with this new facility because of the presence of UNOPS, and we asked the Minister of State how much the difference means to him:�
Jules Vasquez:
"Because it's run through UNOPS which is a UN agency no one can contact the contractor and say hey I mi get you that contract I need a lee 10%. These are things that happen in government that nobody likes to talk about but they're real. Were you alienated by this process which went through UNOPS agency?"
Hon. Elodio Aragon Jr. - Minister of State, Youth, Sports, Culture:
"None at all, none at all Jules; I think it's all about accountability and it's all about value for money that is what I've always talked about, value for money. And I think if we are going to get an investment especially a donation coming from Mexico it is imperative that we get value for money."
Is Marion Jones Complex Being Elevated To The Detriment Of MCC?
And so now that the Marion Jones Complex is getting new football lights - what does that mean for Belize City's primary football field - which is the MCC? We asked Aragon what are the plans for the MCC - which already had part of it property turned into a casino parking lot:�
Jules Vasquez:
"Are you all putting in lights here elevating this at the demise of MCC? Is it a suggestion that well guys we will have a well-lit football field over ya maybe you could switch over from MCC then turn MCC from a parking lot into an extension of the Princess. Maybe they could put a new casino where the MCC is; I don't know what you're plans are, you're friendly with the people."
The Final Word Is In, The Strike Continues
And the teachers union has decided: the strike continues tomorrow. Here's what Luke Palacio explained to the media after discussing with the committee of management after meeting the Prime Minister:�
Reporter:
"Are you guys going back to the classroom tomorrow? Do you continue with your strike action? Where do you stand as a union?"
Luke Palacio - National President - BNTU:
"We continue our strike action tomorrow because we are not satisfied with the outcome of what has transpired."
Reporter:
"Mr. Palacio what was different between this meeting and the last one two weeks ago?"
Luke Palacio - National President - BNTU:
"What was different? The difference is it got worse because basically we thought that we would have made some movements today. There were certain issues that we thought we could have moved on to get the prime minister to agree but instead we see that it has gone in a different direction."
Free From Facebook Crime
Today, two Belizean American women and a 14-year-old boy are on a plane back to the US after being held in prison for the last nine weeks. In August, sisters, Samanti Nicole Louis and Kimberlee Lino, a 14 year old boy, and Tiffany Rene Cacho of Dangriga, appeared in the Magistrate's Court, where they were charged with aggravated assault, damage to property and bodily harm on Dangriga resident, Bremime Martinez.
Louis, Lino, Cacho and the minor broke into Martinez' home in early August and attacked her. The incident was caught on camera, and then uploaded onto Facebook, where it went viral. All were initially denied bail except for Cacho, who was eight months pregnant at the time of the incident.
Strike Team Got A Raven
The Southside Strike Team struck again today when they found a gun in an abandoned lot on Lake View Street in Belize City. The Strike Team conducted a search of the lot this afternoon, where they found a Raven Arms .25 pistol along with 30 live 9mm rounds of ammunition. No one was in the area that the gun was found, so it was submitted as found property. This is the same general area where a pineapple non lethal grenade was found yesterday.
Otilio Undaunted
Earlier on in the news we told you about Otilio Munoz. He's the president of the Orange Walk Branch of the Teachers Union whose windshield was smashed this morning. It happened at around 3:00 in the morning when neighbours heard a loud noise.Munoz told the media today that he is undaunted by this:�
Munoz has made a report to police - but says that unlike the Minister of Education, he doesn't have any security cameras.
The Fast Flip And Come Up, Vega Style
As you hear on the news ever single night, the Government is under pressure to clamp down on corruption, and so a new revelation of a highly questionable land deal land comes up at a very bad time for the PM. It involves the former Deputy Prime Minister, Gaspar Vega, and his son, Andre, and the details of this deal gives cause for you to shake your head. It starts and ends with this prime piece of real estate near the Haulover Bridge. It's identified as in the Lands Registry System as Entry 14608, a 1.057-acre parcel between the Caribbean Sea and the Phillip Goldson highway.
The documents show that on January 14, 2013, Gaspar Vega approved the purchase of the piece of land from the Government to Hilmar Alamilla, who is well-connected to Vega. The land was assessed at just over 6 thousand dollars,
but, as seen in this document, Gaspar Vega directed Lands Commissioner Wilbert Vallejos to discount the value of the land to $2,500. The documents do not explain why he complied with such a questionable directive to give yet another discount on this expensive piece of sea frontage.
A Conference About Caring
A two-day conference on children with disabilities began today. Belizean health professionals as well as representatives from the Caribbean will be discussing ways to integrate these special needs kids into society so they can have a normal and enriching life. The speakers will also be focusing on those at risk of developing a disability early in life. Dr. Einstein Bodden opened today's ceremony. He was diagnosed with a condition called kypho-scoliosis at age 2, which is a deformity to the spine. And today, he is a perfect example of a man who defeated the odds to become a Doctor. We start off with his message. UNICEF Rep. Ivan Yerovi then delves into the importance of inclusiveness.
Rebuilding NICH
The Administration of the National Institute of Culture and History, has been going through some major transition tremors since the election in November of last year. Right now NICH is looking for a new president, as well as an administrator, a head of museums, and a business development officer. We asked the Minister of State responsible for culture about the unsettled state of affairs:..
Bliss Needs A Boost
And while NICH is going through a major administrative overhaul, its flagship building also needs an overhaul. That's the Bliss Centre - which, 12 years after opening is in need of major and urgent repairs. We asked Aragon about it:
The Mexican government sponsored the Bliss Centre to a tune of 8 million dollars and it sprung its first leak days after opening.
PM Can't Knock The Hustle
Just a few minutes ago, we detailed the story of how the former Deputy Prime Minister's son was compensated 400 thousand for land, which had been purchased form the government for $2,500 dollars. And it's private land which the government knew it shouldn't have sold.
This evening, we asked the Prime Minister about it, and here's what he had to say:
Daniel Ortiz:
"The former deputy prime minister, former minister of lands Gaspar Vega, there is a scandal�"
Rt. Hon. Dean Barrow - Prime Minister:
"No, no, no you see and then yo the use emotive and judgmental language. No man we're here to talk about what happened with the BNTU and the meeting today. Any questions you have about that please you can no doubt get in touch with the deputy prime minister. That's not something that I'm prepared to discuss, it's not something I've yet gotten a report from the current minister of lands. So please I can't deal with that."
An Ocean Of Concern
Yesterday, we told you about OCEANA's concerns with Cabinet's recent approval of seismic surveying in the waters outside of the barrier reef and atolls one kilometre buffer zone. Today, Janelle Chanona, OCEANA's country leader, visited the studio to explain why they are so concerned about the decision:
Alex Courtenay:
"The Cabinet has recently approved certain, surveys. A seismic survey as well as a multi beam survey, which the OCEANA organization has taken a position on?"
Janelle Chanona - VP, OCEANA Belize:
"So on Wednesday we were informed verbally and in person by both the PM and the Minister of Petroleum that Cabinet in its Tuesday meeting has approved conducting seismic surveys offshore Belize, East of the Belize Barrier reef, excluding the reef itself and one kilometre, and excluding Belize's 3 atolls and their one kilometre basis. They would shoot seismic essentially everywhere else.
Channel 5
P.M. and B.N.T.U. Meet; Some Agreements Reached
The Prime Minister met with the Belize National Teachers Union beginning at two o'clock this afternoon. At five-forty this evening, the P.M. spoke about what happened inside; in respect of [...]
P.M. to Finally Sign Order for 13th Senator; Makes Moves on Integrity Commission
In respect of the Integrity Commission, PM said he waiting for a list of persons to be presented by the Belize Chamber of Commerce and Industry. But as it relates [...]
Chamber of Commerce Pulls Out of Senate Inquiry, Plans One-Day Shutdown
The Chamber of Commerce met on Wednesday night in Belize City; there were two motions to discuss and determine as pressure grows to accomplish a good governance agenda. We can [...]
Chairperson of Senate Committee Will Not Vote in Inquiry
A chair for the Senate Select Committee could not be appointed, since each of the three social partners senators declined to head the working group; they have respectively declined for [...]
Business Senator Wants Another Crack at Senate Inquiry Motion
After lengthy discussions, even though it was decided that the Chamber would remove itself from the senate inquiry if the committee is not reconstituted as directed and the terms of [...]
P.U.P. Still Angry Over Senate "Railroading;" Will Support B.N.T.U. and B.C.C.I.
The People's United Party didn't participate in the first meeting of the Senate Select investigation into the scandalous affairs of the immigration Department revealed in the Auditor General's Special Audit. [...]
One Detained for Vehicle Burning as "Shaken" DPM Recounts Incident
Police have picked up a man in connection with the burning of Deputy Prime Minister Patrick Faber's government assigned vehicle. The fire happened at Faber's Lord's Bank residence around midnight [...]
Teachers Picket Outside B.N.T.U.'s Meeting with P.M.
As the Prime Minister Barrow and the unions negotiated for hours inside the Biltmore, outside the hotel, teachers were out in support waiting for any word of progress.� In those [...]
Ministry of Education Plans to Make Up Lost Class Time
Before the meeting with the Prime Minister got underway at Biltmore, the Minister of Education, Patrick Faber was cautiously optimistic about the outcome. While he did not disclose specific details,�� [...]
P.M. Says Government Will Not Meet Chamber's Timeframe on Demands
Earlier we told you about the Chamber's decision to call for a shutdown. At the press conference today, the Prime Minister said they will not meet the Chamber's timeline, which [...]
O.W. Teachers' Leader's Vehicle Smashed; Deputy Education Minister Says U.D.P. is Not Behind It
On Wednesday, we reported to you about the arson at the home of Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Education, Patrick Faber. But early this morning, the vehicle of Otilio [...]
Public Service Union Supports Negotiations and Disdains Industrial Action
There will be no industrial action on the part of the Public Service Union. Beginning last week, the P.S.U. held consultations with its branch members countrywide. The Union's executive sought [...]
Fire Victims Stabilized, but Have Long Road to Recovery Ahead
It has been six days since Ian and Empress Hamilton and their mother Melissa left Belize for Galveston, Texas, for an urgent series of surgeries to repair up to ninety-five [...]
Donations Encouraged for Burn Victims' Fund; Hamilton Family Member Headed to Texas
It is important to note that the Shriners Hospital in Galveston, Texas is doing the surgeries and continued care for free. However, there are still costs to be paid, such [...]
Special Envoy for Women and Children Hosts Regional Disability Conference
Special Envoy for Women and Children Kim Simplis Barrow is hosting a regional partnership conference for children with disabilities. Simplis Barrow invited spouses of Prime Ministers in CARICOM and Presidents [...]
B.N.T.U. Says They Will Consult Members
The B.N.T.U. has just concluded its meeting; a number of issues were decided upon. But first we can report tonight that the strike continues on Friday and the union will [...]
More Money for Marion Jones; Contract Signed for Multi-Purpose Sports Building
An additional ten million dollars will be spent on the Marion Jones Sporting Complex that has been under construction for years; in fact, for at least ten years. The Government [...]
Sports Minister Says Things Have Changed for Marion Jones
The total amount of money already invested in the Marion Jones Sporting Complex is unknown, but it is safe to say that millions upon millions of dollars have been spent [...]
Healthy Living Visits Urban Garden for Sustainable Farming
Healthy Living requires healthy eating. Healthy eating means access to fresh and nutritious foods. Now we've heard the complaint - and in many cases it's true - healthier can be [...]
CTV3
Prime Minister Meets With Teachers, But Was There Compromise?
A second round of face to face negotiations between the PM and the Belize National Teachers Union took place today in Belize City. The meeting lasted for some three hours inside, and like the last one that led to the strike two weeks ago, today's meeting did not end with total agreement between the parties.
Our news team is still at the meeting venue in Belize City, where we understand the BNTU is holding an emergency meeting with the council of management to review the discussions with the PM. A short while ago, the PM ended his press conference where he updated the media on the positions his Government presented to the BNTU. Due to the limited time, we will only be presenting the PM's statements on two of the issues, follow by our explanatory notes. First, the PM spoke on the Senate Select Committee which has been an issue of contention. Today, despite the BNTU's insistence that the composition must give all parties equal representation with one representative each, the PM said he will not budge
BCCI Calls For National Shut-Down
A countrywide shutdown of businesses - that's what a majority of the members of the Belize Chamber of Commerce and Industry voted for and supported in a special general meeting held on Wednesday night. Like the BNTU, the Chamber has been lobbying for specific reform measures including that a Senate Special Select Committee investigate the Auditor General's report, the establishment of the Integrity Commission, a reconstituted Public Accounts Committee, the enforcement of the laws that call for the appointment of the 13 Senator and the signing of the United Nation's Convention Against Corruption. The Chamber, in response to the Government's slow commitment to those measures, decided to step up the pressure. They did so by putting two resolutions on the table for the members at their special meeting.
Resolution 1 asked whether they agreed that Senator Lizarraga should only participate in a Senate Inquiry meeting if it is reconstituted as the Chamber has proposed, with the Government having only 1 representative along with the Opposition and each Social Partner.
PUP Senator Says Senate Select Meeting Is Null and Void
Yesterday the Senate Select Committee that will investigate the findings of the special immigration audits met for the first time. Well, the People's United Party is pointing out that the meeting is null and void. In a release today the Opposition insists that the government is intent on railroading the establishment of an impartial and effective committee. After the Chamber's special general meeting yesterday where the members voted for their senator not to participate in the inquiry as it currently stands, the media spoke with Opposition Senator Valerie Woods on the issues. Senator Valerie Woods - Opposition Senator:
"As long as it a farce we will not participate, we have maintained that we are in solidarity with the noble effort of the BNTU, these are serious issues it is good governance issues we are not going to play around with it, if you are serious lets go with the committee of five, let ensure that there is a proper budget and lets ensure that we can all witnesses person with relevant information, that is not limited, if we are genuine and serious about good governance."
Windsheild of BNTU Orange Walk's President Smashed
Who vandalized the vehicle belonging to the President of BNTU Orange Walk Branch Otilio Munoz and what was the motive? That is what Orange Walk Police are trying to figure out after Munoz discovered this morning that the windshield of his Mitsubishi Outlander which was parked on the side of the road in front of his home on George Street had been shattered. President Otilio Munoz - BNTU Orange Walk Branch:
"I realize that when went out to get into my vehicle at seven o'clock in the morning, I realized that I was just burglarized, actually they took and burst the windshield of my vehicle so I had to contact the police and inform them as to what has happen and that is actually what transpired."
Is The Belize Workers Union Broke?
Is the Belize Workers Union, the union that represents BSI workers bankrupt? According to the UDP Guardian Newspaper it is. According to the newspaper, at this point in time the BWU has a total of $1,394 in its accounts at the Belize Bank which is three accounts: the General account, the Strike Fund and an Employees Savings Account. The newspaper further states that the union is operating on an overdraft facility of $25,000, $24,281.37 of which has already been spent which only leaves an available $718.63 for the union to operate on.
The Guardian reports that BWU is broke because of the issuance of a number of checks between four members of the executive from April to the month of October.
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BIOFIN Looks at Cost of Protecting the Chiquibul
The world is looking at conservation and protection of the environment as the solution to many issues that ail the world including climate change, economics and sustainable development. BIOFIN is the acronym for Biodiversity Finance Initiative and was launched by the United Nations Development Fund in October 2012 with an objective to address the financial [�]
PUP Says GOB is Hijacking Senate Investigation
In the political arena, the main opposition party, PUP has issued a release condemning what they have cited as an attempt by the Government of Belize to railroad the selection of an impartial and effective Senate Select Committee. The release says that the Government is hijacking the investigation and that it is clear that the [�]
PSU Not Ready for Industrial Action
The charge for good governance led by the Belize National Teachers' Union has created divisions in various sectors as some are in support of the teachers and some are not. While the Public Service Union had agreed in supporting the BNTU, there has been some silence in the past weeks from that union up until [�]
Chamber Takes Its Motions to a Vote at Special General Meeting
The private sector has voted for a national shutdown of all businesses if the Government of Belize does not adhere to several demands in regards to good governance. A Special General Meeting was held last night which saw the participation of one hundred and twenty four members of the Belize Chamber of Commerce and Industry, [�]
Senator Woods on Boycotting of Senate Inquiry
Yesterday the first Senate Special Select Committee was held and the first business of the day was to appoint a Chairperson to head the committee but that did not happen. Absent from the meeting was a senator representing the Opposition. In fact, the People's United Party has taken the stance that it will not participate [�]
Hulse Takes Good Governance Issues to the Police
Yesterday at the police graduation service for Squad #93, Minister of Home Affairs, Godwin Hulse delivered a lengthy address that not only focused on the expectations of the recent graduates and where he sees the Belize Police Department heading but he also incorporated the current issues of good governance that is being demanded by the [�]
Progress at Marion Jones Sports Complex
The Ministry of Youth, Sports and Culture signed a contract for the lighting of the Marion Jones Sporting Complex. Four light posts will be installed at the sporting complex. In addition to this project, the Ministry also unveiled the design of the indoor basketball and volleyball facility that will be constructed. Project Coordinator for United [�]
Anglicans Prepare for Synod 2017
Anglican churches around the country are preparing for their upcoming sessions of the Synod slated to begin on Friday, October 14. This is an event that happens every two years with the church heads coming together to look at both internal and external exercises with an objective to effectively implement them. Love News spoke with [�]
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