Happy Independence Day Belize!
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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, and other specials
The San Pedro Sun
Opening the official Independence Eve Celebrations
Speeches by Mayor Daniel Guerrero, Representative of the Opposition Andre Perez and Area Representative Honorable Manuel Heredia Jr.
Flag raising ceremonies for Independence Celebration
San Pedro Town counts down to Belize's 36th Anniversary of Independence.
Island Students Celebrate Independence Day with a Children’s Rally
With the purpose of promoting patriotism among Belizean children during the September Celebrations, the annual Children’s Rally was celebrated across the country on Friday, September 15th. San Pedro Town was no exception, with upper division, primary and secondary school students, along with educators of San Pedro Town gathering at the Angel Nuñez Auditorium to celebrate Belize’s 36th Independence. Under the theme “Belize: Confronting Challenges! Celebrating Triumphs! Renewing our Resolve”, they all enjoyed musical performances, poems and drama, as well as an inspirational speech from Ismael Kay.
The Children’s Rally commenced with a musical rendition of the National Anthem performed by the San Pedro High School (SPHS) music class. Mistress of Ceremonies Maryurit Trimino then invited two students from Isla Bonita Elementary School to give the welcome address. Each participating school had a presentation, showcasing their patriotism and delighting the crowd in attendance.
Ambergis Caye Fishing Guide Association holds a consultation at San Pedro Lion’s Den
The Ambergris Caye Fishing Guide Association (ACFGA), held a meeting at the San Pedro Lion’s Den on Wednesday, September 13th. Attending the meeting were fishermen and stakeholders who had a variety of topics to discuss.
At the top of the agenda were the results from a petition that had been submitted to the Belize Tourism Board (BTB) by the ACFGA, along with other fishing associations throughout Belize. The petition was submitted the month prior, and focused on some issues fishermen were facing due to their boat size, number of passengers, and requirements from the Belize Port Authority (BPA). Some fishermen claim that while aboard their ‘lanchon’ boats, whether on the job or simply running errands, they are sometimes stopped by the BPA and given a summons. The summons is a result of requirements that currently ask boat owners to have a helper on board any boat 24 feet and under, with or without passengers.
Lina Point inaugurated on Ambergris Caye
Lina Point Over Water Island Resort held its ribbon-cutting ceremony on Saturday September 16th. In attendance were the Mayor of San Pedro Town, Daniel Guerrero, and Minister of Tourism and Civil Aviation, Manuel Heredia Jr., Developer Rick Jennings, wife Chelsie and their daughters Kyla and Angelina welcomed a host of family and friends, employees and invited guests to a fun evening celebrating the start of their new venture.
Construction began in 2014, and the ceremony celebrated the completion of the main building, which houses eight 1-bedroom suites, a pool, rooftop restaurant ‘Hooked’, a game room, bar and lobby. Two over-water cabañas have been completed, with six more to be built over the next year. Jennings gave a brief tour to guests, showcasing the over-water buildings designed to capitalize on the free-flowing water below, visible from the glass tiles underfoot. An outdoor plunge pool on the outdoor deck offers leeward island vistas.
Red Cross hosts blood drive on Ambergris Caye
The Belize Red Cross, San Pedro Branch (BRCSPB) hosted a successful blood drive on Saturday, September 16th in San Pedro Town. Held at the Dr. Otto Rodriguez San Pedro Polyclinic II, a total of 15 pints of blood were collected from 9AM to 3PM. While potential donors made their way to the clinic, a dollar drive was held on the streets, collecting a grand total of $362.77.
According to the BRCSPB, donors began arriving from early in the day, providing the much needed units of blood for Ambergris Caye’s reserves at the blood bank. They reiterated the importance of donating blood, which in return can save the life of someone else. The BRCSPB encourages island residents to donate on a regular basis in order to keep the stock of blood for the island at its highest level. The blood is then available for any islander who may need a blood transfusion in the case of an emergency, thus, it is important to support and donate all blood drives, which take place every three months.
Ambergris Today
Government Of Belize To Join Hurricane Relief Efforts For Dominica
In a press release issued yesterday, Tuesday, September 19, 2017, the Government of Belize has expressed its distress and sympathy in learning of the damage inflicted upon Dominica and the other Leeward Islands by the deadly Hurricane Maria, a Category 5 storm.
“Our thoughts and prayers go out to the victims of this devastating storm who may have lost loved ones and who have had their homes and properties destroyed,” stated the press release.
While the level of devastation is still yet unknown, the Government of Belize stands ready to join with other CARICOM nations to coordinate and support relief efforts in any way possible within our human and financial resources.
Misc Belizean Sources
Government of Belize to Join Relief Efforts for Dominica
The Government of Belize expresses our distress and sympathy in learning of the damage inflicted upon Dominica and the other Leeward Islands by the deadly Hurricane Maria, a Category 5 storm. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the victims of this devastating storm who may have lost loved ones and who have had their homes and properties destroyed.
While the level of devastation is still yet unknown, the Government of Belize stands ready to join with other CARICOM nations to coordinate and support relief efforts in any way possible within our human and financial resources.
The Government encourages all Belizeans who are able to offer some form of assistance to the Government and people of Dominica to do so by supporting local relief initiatives being undertaken by reliable agencies, businesses or organizations.
SBDC Workshop: INTRODUCTION TO BUSINESS TAX
Presented by:
Mrs. Lisa Clare, Ag. Supervisor of Objection, Appeal and Training, Income Tax Department. Location:
Welcome Center, San Ignacio, Cayo.
Workshop Date:
28th September, 2017.
Time:
9am to 12 noon. Free of cost. Income Tax was enacted in Belize in 1924 and remained in that basic form up to July 1998, when Business Tax was introduced. The Legislation is now called "The Income And Business Tax Act", with an effective date of January 1999 in its current form. The Act is divided into three parts with Income Tax under Part 1, Income Tax on Profits arising from Petroleum under Part 11 and Business Tax under Part 111. This Information session will help you understand the ACT in details.
Exhibitions: "Frida & Diego: A Smile at the Crossroads" and "Mexican Cities: World Heritage"
Embassy of Mexico to Belize invites you to attend the opening of the following exhibitions:
"Frida & Diego: A Smile at the Crossroads" and "Mexican Cities: World Heritage"
They are unveiled on Tuesday, September 26, 2017 - 6:30 PM
at the Mexican Cultural Institute on Newtown Barracks & Wilson Street in Belize City
Belize City Parade Participants
Great News! Employment Opportunities! Apply Now!
The U.S. Embassy has two job openings: Generator Mechanic and a Plumbing/Carpentry Foreman.
The U.S. Mission in Belize provides equal opportunity and fair and equitable treatment in employment to all people without regard to race, color religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, political affiliation, marital status, or sexual orientation. The Department of State also strives to achieve equal employment opportunity in all personnel operations through continuing diversity enhancement programs.
Happy Independence Day Belize!
by Oceana Belize. Natural colors are our national colors. Our challenges are many but our resolve is strong. By working together, we can celebrate the triumph of a bright future that includes clean energy, sustainable resource management and bountiful beauty. May God bless Belize. Happy Independence Day Belize.
Ya'axche Institute dontaes seedlings
Ya'axche Institute for Conservation and Education (YICE) donated 100 seedlings to University of Belize, which were planted yesterday in commemoration of National Service Day.
Caye Caulker ready for Celebrations!
Ministry of Health Responds to Increased Reports of Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye)
The Ministry of Health reports that there is an increase in the number of reported conjunctivitis cases (more commonly known as “pink eye”), particularly in the northern and central health regions. Conjunctivitis is an irritation of the eye, which is very uncomfortable, caused by bacteria or viruses which can spread easily from person to person.
Symptoms of conjunctivitis include:
• Redness in the white of the eye or inner eyelid
• Watery eyes
Groundbreaking Ceremony for the Upgrade of Hopkins Village Main Street and Water System Phase 1
The public is hereby informed of the groundbreaking ceremony of the Banana Accompanying Measures (BAM) 2013 – Upgrade of Hopkins Village Main Street and Water System Phase 1 Project, on the 22nd September 2017 at 2:00 p.m. at the Basketball Court, Hopkins Village, Stann Creek District.
The upgrade of Hopkins Village Main Street and Water System Phase 1 for a length of 3.2 km (2 miles), worth a total of € 1,222,220.48 (BZ$ 2,688,885.10), is being financed by the European Union and the Government of Belize through funds from the BAM 2013 programme.
The Hopkins Village Main Street is of major importance for the social development of southern Belize. The village main street rehabilitation includes the supply, construction, installation and completion of over three (3) kilometers of road with base material and double chip seal to pavement standards; eighty (80) meters of road concrete pavement; three hundred (300) meters of concrete culverts and nearly three (3) kilometers of vee drains; over six (6) kilometers of water supply pipeline with assemblies and fittings along the road; two (2) concrete pedestrian crossings; road markings and over hundred (100) traffic signs.
CARICOM Commends Belize's Contribution to CARICOM as it Marks its 36th Independence Anniversary
The Caribbean Community (CARICOM) has commended the “invaluable contribution” of Belize as it marks its 36th Independence Anniversary.
The Central American CARICOM Member State celebrates its independence on Thursday 21 September under the theme Belize: Confronting Challenges! Celebrating Triumphs! Renewing our Resolve!
In a congratulatory message sent to Prime Minister of Belize, The Hon. Dean Barrow, CARICOM Secretary-General Ambassador Irwin LaRocque commended his leadership in the CARICOM Quasi-cabinet for Justice and Governance.
“The Community is also highly appreciative of Belize’s initiative to encourage dialogue and collaboration between CARICOM and Central America.
HERE IS THE FINAL LINE UP FOR THE INDEPENDENCE DAY 2017 JUMP UP PARADE!
PLEASE TAKE NOTE. LINE UP STARTS AT 9 AM AND PARADE STARTS AT 10 AM. SEE YOU THERE! LONG LIVE BELIZE!
Happy Independence Day Celebrations to everyone from all of us in Sarteneja!
SACD was honored to once again be part of the Independence Day schools parade for this year. Here are some photos of yesterday's schools parade.
Belize Fishing Report, Sept. 11th - Sept. 17th, 2017
After a week like last week it is hard to top, but as usual, the bonefishing remains strong. All of our anglers are catching bonefish when fishing for them. There are so many bonefish around at any given time that even if you are not a seasoned angler, you will be successful. Come join us in the bonefish fun.
Channel 7
American Couple Accused of Child Cruelty David and Anke Doehm Back to Court
After a month's adjournment, Americans David and Anke Doehm went back to Magistrate's Court today for the continuation of the case against them for the charge of cruelty of to a child.
They're waiting for the prosecution to provide them with the rest of the evidence which will be used to prove that they are criminally responsible for the death of their 13 year-old adopted daughter, Faye Lin Cannon.
At the last hearing, Crown Counsel Jacqueline Willoughby informed the court that the prosecution was waiting for the results of forensic tests which will make up part of the evidence the Doehm's will have to face. There was an undertaking that if those results were ready, they would be disclosed to the defendants on today's date, if not, the case would be adjourned to a further date to allow for more time.
Amy Forte's Attorney Doesn't Want To Speak
Opposition Leader John Briceno says that he's disappointed that the police won't investigate Amy Forte's allegation that someone forged her signature in a fraudulent land conveyance to Andre Vega.
The land Vega got was private, so the Ministry of Natural Resources, which was being led by Vega's father, Gaspar Vega, compensated him with 7 acres of prime real estate on Mosquito Caye. When Forte brought it to the attention of Prime Minister Dean Barrow, he cancelled the title; while Andre Vega said that he gave it back.
So, it's a dubious case, but at this moment, it appears that no further action is being taken.
Belize Coalition for Natural Heritage Takes On Elrington For Dissing Offshore Moratorium
Last night on 7News, you heard Foreign Minister Wilfred Elrington blast the entire concept of conservation and diss the idea of an offshore moratorium. He said he couldn't rationalize it in a country where there is so much need.
Here's how he put it to a gathering of UB students and lecturers at a Security Symposium on Monday:
Hon. Wilfred Elrington, Minister of Home Affairs:
"We can't pay for hospital. We can't pay for education. We can't pay for schools, but we are not supposed to touch the petroleum. We are not even to find out what is there, because the attitude is don't touch it. I don't know why it's being left there. The history has shown that you can exploit petroleum. But we are not into find out what we have. Because somehow or the other that's going to hurt us. That's going to destroy the reef. In this day and age we have got to think for ourselves. Because if you are starving, but it is content first to starve so as to ensure that the fishes are there - that the manatees are going to survive, why the human beings are dying. I can't rationalize it."
Her Daughter Was Murdered, And Now Her House Burnt Down
On Monday night at around 11:00 on a back street in Mahogany Heights, a bungalow house burnt down to nothing. The house belonged to tourism Police Officer, Joy Dougall.
Sadly, this is not the first major loss for her. In June of last year, her 17 year old daughter Jasmine Petillo was viciously stabbed to death and now her house is gone.
We did go to the scene of the fire but Dougall was not available for an interview - and when we reached her later, she declined comment.
We were able to speak to her neighbor who saw the fire.
OW Woman Alleges Rape, then Being Left On Road Nude
There is a very disturbing sexual assault report coming out of the north. A 21 year old woman told police she was raped and then dumped naked on the side of the road in Orange Walk town.
The woman reported to police that on Monday morning after 10:00 she got into a green taxi on Zericote Street. She says she doesn't remember anything after that. Only that she woke up naked on the side of road at the junction of Liberty Avenue and Belize Corozal Road by Zeta Auto Parts. Her clothes, phone and purse were all thrown beside her. She says she got up, put on her clothes and walked unto Riverside Street until she came up to her cousin's house. A medical examination certified that she had been raped. The police don't have much to go on at this point - the license plates are unknown and the only description the woman gave is that the man is black, slim built and he had on a cap. Police have not released any information on this report, but we will keep following up.
Scary Motorbike Collision on Albert Street
There was a scary motorbike collision yesterday evening at the junction of Albert and King Streets. It happened at 5:10 pm, just as everyone was heading home from work in the downtown area.
As this security video from Mikado shows, a Ford Focus Sport is crossing from one side of King Street to the other, across Albert Street. The driver doesn't make a full stop, because all she can see coming is a slow moving car. So she starts to drive across the intersection, which is when this Kawasaki Motorbike whips out from behind the slow moving car, and jets into view. The driver of the car sees it racing to her, and not knowing what to do, she freezes and stops in the middle of the intersection. That's when the motorbike hits the car's front fender at high speed and the driver flies over the hood and lands on the street.
Three Way Pile-up With Vehicle Being Towed
There was another accident on the Hattieville Boom Road, near Fresh Pond, some time around midday today.
We found the Chevy 1500 Pickup truck with the driver's side door smashed in. That's after the authorities flipped it over, because as these pictures show, the truck actually came to a stop while completely flipped over and its wheels in the air. There was also this blue Jeep Patriot with its front end extensively damaged.
Police say that a Gold GMC Canyon, which was being driven by Anna McCauley, was towing the grey Chevy pickup. Francis McCauley was in the driver's seat of the Chevy pickup, and he was steering it. The towing strap gave way, and sent the Chevy pickup in the opposite lane. The Jeep Patriot, which was being driven by Raymond Garbutt, was driving by at the same time, and he couldn't avoid the pickup. They crashed into each other, the impact sent the Chevy pickup barreling off to the side of the road.
Hurricane Maria, The Images From Dominica Show What She Did
Tonight, as Hurricane Maria continues to churn towards Turks and Caicos, the storm has been downgraded to a Category 2. But that's after pommeling Puerto Rico and St. Crioix in the US Virgin Islands as a category 4 storm.
The damages on those US territories are still being calculated, but tonight more is known of the damages to the Caribbean Nation of Dominica. At least 8 people are dead, and as these images show, destruction caused by the 175 miles an hour winds is massive and widespread.
Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit has officially declared a state of emergency and a curfew from 4 PM to 8 AM.
There are no phone services - only satellite phones, and Hartley Henry, the Principal Advisor to Prime Minister Skerrit put out a statement saying there has been tremendous loss of Housing and Public buildings. Here's what he told ABS TV in Antigua this morning:
Death Toll Keeps Going Up In Mexican Quake
And from that unfolding wide-scale disaster in our Caribbean sister state, to a tragedy of untold dimensions in our neighbor to the north.
Mexicans in the states of Morelos and Puebla are still trying to recover after yesterday's 7.1 magnitude earthquake. This is the second earthquake in Mexico in 12 days. The first one struck off Mexico's west coast near the border with Guatemala. That was an 8.1 magnitude - one of the country's most powerful quakes in a century. As we showed you, many Belizeans felt the effects. 61 Mexicans died during that quake but yesterday's powerful tremor has caused more deaths - up until this morning it was at 220 and counting.
Man Critical After Libertad Stabbing
A man was stabbed in Libertad village, Corozal last night. Not much information is known at this time, all police have at this point is that at about 10:00, 33 year old Juan Rosado was stabbed to his upper body while socializing. Rosado is listed in critical condition at the Northern Regional Hospital.
Integrity Commission Tells Politicians To File
The Integrity Commission, of which much has been said, but from which nothing has been heard since their swearing in ceremony in January, released a statement today. They say that they've contacted all politicians elected to public office to advise them that they need to file a declaration of their financial affairs for the year ending December 31, 2016.
The Commission has also reminded these elected politicians that they need to adhere to the Prevention of Corruption Act, and for those who did not file, their names were published as part of a list in the July 11 Gazette.
That list of the delinquent public office holders who have still not filed a declaration of their assets has since been sent to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions.
Bail for a Murderer?
Last Thursday, we told you about the very shaky start to the murder trial of 30 year-old Nelson Henry. The prosecution's main witness against him is a former police officer, who is not cooperating with the prosecution. And now, Henry's attorney, Oscar Selgado, wants him released on bail.
Now, in 99% of cases, defendants charged with murder aren't eligible for bail, but Selgado has made an application before Justice Adolph Lucas. He told the court that Henry is entitled to bail on two grounds. He submitted that under Section 5 and 6 of the constitution, all citizens have a fair trial within a reasonable time. In this case, Henry has been on remand for 6 years for the murder of Edward Lord Jr.
Shooting Victim Aaron King Recovering
On Monday we told you about the shooting involving Aaron King. King was shot a total of three times while at a party on Sunday. When last we reported on him, he was in critical condition at the KHMH on Monday.
Today his sister Shakera Young told us he is doing ok and is in stable condition right now.
Pink Eye Plentiful
The Ministry of Health is warning the public to be on the lookout for pink eye - because there's an increased number of cases being reported, especially in the Belize, Orange Walk and Corozal Districts.
By now, most of us are familiar with the symptoms of pink eye which include redness in the white of the eye, watery eyes, itchy eyes, and blurred vision. But most importantly, it's highly contagious, so if you or someone you know is experiencing any of the symptoms you should seek help from your nearest healthcare facility and stay away from public places until the infection begins to clear.
PUP Leader Gives Ambassadors An Earful
He may be giving his national address tomorrow, but today at the Biltmore Plaza Hotel, Opposition Leader John Briceno gave a preview to the Resident and Non-resident Ambassadors and other members of the Diplomatic and Consular Corps on what a PUP release calls "the true state of the Nation."
The ambassadors visit Belize annually for the Independence Day Ceremonies, and, it seems, Briceno gave them an earful of the world according to John! According to a PUP release, quote, "diplomats were briefed on the rampant corruption in public office, the refusal of the Government to allow the Public Accounts Committee and the Integrity Commission to perform their proper functionsthe threat to our democracy by the armed forces attacking the media and the members of Opposition at peaceful demonstrations..." you get the idea, the full blue bill and receipt. The address also referred to recent developments between Belize and Guatemala.
When Will PUP Have a City Slate?
So, while the Opposition Leader had a lot to say to the Diplomatic Corps about what the PUP says is "the true state of the Nation", yesterday he couldn't tell us exactly when his party is going to launch their City Council slate for Belize City.
The March 2018 Municipal Elections are getting closer, and voters of Belize City, the UDP stronghold, still doesn't have an option from the PUP to consider as yet. So, we asked John Briceno what's the hold up, and here's what he had to say:
Hon. John Briceno - Leader of the Opposition:
"As I've been saying, over and over, Daniel, and maybe you might not believe it, but we do have more than 10 candidates. But, for us, I know that Belize City is the garrison of the UDP. I mean, they have spent over 200 million dollars of our tax payer's money in Belize City, and they want to make sure that they have an impregnable fort."
BTIA Tells Hoteliers Not To Buy Off-season Conch
On Monday, we show you the huge conch bust made by the Fisheries Department working with the Belize Audubon Society. Well, tonight, the Belize Tourism Industry Association is congratulating them for the confiscation of 8,980 pieces of out of season conch weighing 1,500 pounds.
The BTIA says, quote, "While we are pleased with the results of this conch bust, we recognize that much more needs to be done to protect our fisheries resourcesWith only 13 enforcement officers and limited fuel, the Fisheries Department will not be able to meaningfully deter and eliminate illegal fishing over the long term."
US Child Labour Survey Shines Red Light on Belize
The US Bureau on International Labour Affairs today issued its 2016 Findings on the Worst Forms of Child Labour. Right off the bat, Belize is listed as a country that made minimal advancement in eliminating child labour. All other countries in Central America were judged to have done better.
The report found that the minim age for work - which is below the age of 14 - does not conform to international standards. The international standard is 15 years.
It adds that prohibitions on child commercial sexual exploitation are inadequate in Belize.
The report notes that, quote "Children in Belize perform dangerous tasks in agriculture. Children also engage in the worst forms of child labor, including in commercial sexual exploitation, sometimes as a result of human trafficking." End quote. It adds that, quote, "Children in Belize are increasingly being trafficked for commercial sexual exploitation in areas frequented by tourists or seasonal workers, such as truckers and citrus workers." End quote.
Senate Inquiry "Paying The Press?"
The Senate Special Select Committee conducting the inquiry into immigration Irregularities is pushing for total transparency in immigration affairs. But it hasn't been operating by that same standard. We say that because last week, the Business Senator let it slip that his brother Pete's cable company, CCV was being paid one thousand five hundred dollars per session of the hearings to broadcast the event exclusively on his cable network. Now, they do a fine job - even if only their subscribers and those of their affiliates - which is about 75% of the country can see it. But, fair is fair, $1,500 per session is far below the market rate - basically, they're doing it on the cheap. But, the facts remain, no other media house was asked to bid, and as a general rule, no one else gets paid to cover meetings in the National Assembly building.
And besides all that, weren't we all told in September that the business Senator's brother was not being paid to cover the meetings? That's what PUP Senior Senator Eamon Courtney said after the UDP Guardian printed otherwise:...
Shoes For Students
School is back in session and most kids had no problem getting equipped with all the gear they need for school. But some are not so lucky - and can't even afford a pair of tennis shoes. High School Teacher Ruby Reyes observed this and was inspired to start the change. She told us how she got over a hundred pairs of sneakers for deserving kids:
Ruby Reyes, Shoe Drive Organizer:
"The shoe drive is basically an initiative from what I saw in the big falls community. I thought there for four years and I saw the need for school shoes and then I left unfortunately and then I came here at SCA and SCA has this sort of charity program whereby they assist students in need like with uniform and school supplies and I wanted to do something similar like that for my community."
Hilary's Favorite Hot Sauce
Defeated US Presidential Candidate Hilary Clinton's new book, named, "What Happened" tells all about her campaign, the eventual loss to Donald Trump and the devastating aftermath.
And while that's for the fans of US politics to devour - one thing did catch our eye. On page 203, Clinton talks about her favorite pepper sauce, which just happens to come from Belize. She writes, quote, "Several of us put hot sauce on everything. I've been a fan since 1992, when I became convinced it boosted my immune system....We were always on the lookout for new concoctions....Julie the videographer came back from vacation in Belize with four little bottles of the best hot sauce any of us have ever had: Marie Sharp's. We immediately loved the red habanero pepper flavor the most. Everyone quietly jockeyed for that bottle, then handed it over sheepishly when confronted. Eventually we realized we could just order more, and peace returned."
A Cacao Committee
When we talk about Belize's leading industries, Cacao isn't the first thing that comes to mind. But it is thriving. In March of this year we told you just how interested Europe is in using Belizean cacao to make their chocolates. It is a huge endorsement for the industry and that means the cacao farmers have to ensure that they are ready to take it to the next level. And to make this happen, a group of stakeholders formed the first ever Belize National Cacao Committee last week Thursday in San Pedro Columbia Toledo.
In a release it states "The newly-formed committee is tasked with moving the cacao industry forward in an organized and unified manner by determining the needs of the cacao industry, in consultation with stakeholders, and lobbying the government to secure policies to support those goals." One of the members told us more.
South Korea Cares
On Monday, the Government of Belize received a donation of office equipment and two new vehicles from the Republic of Korea..The donation is specifically for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the hope is that it increases their capacity. CEO Pat Andrews told us more:
The Republic of Korea and Belize are also commemorating 30 years of established diplomatic relations this year.
Frankie's Freedom
And we close tonight as we always do on the 20th...with the grandeur of Frankie Reneau's extravagant, extended rendition of the national anthem.
Enjoy, and stay tuned to Channel 7 tonight for all local programming which culminates in the Flag Raising at the memorial park.
And join us tomorrow in Belmopan for the Independence Day Official Ceremonies...
And from all of us here at channel 7 have a great Independence Day, and we'll see you back here on Friday.
Channel 5
Chamber Intervenes to Stop Freeze in Senate Allocation
On the eve of independence, the Belize Chamber of Commerce and Industry has sent a strong letter to Prime Minister Dean Barrow, asking that he retract the financial ceiling for [...]
D.P.P. Wants More from Integrity Commission on Late Declarations
Earlier this year, the Integrity Commission’s decision to require declarations filed dating back only to 2016, not to 2012 as originally asked for, raised ire from the Opposition, which questioned [...]
Foreign Minister Wants Verification of Sarstoon B.T.V. Incident
The issues of sovereignty and territorial integrity are ever present in the minds of Belizeans at this time. This morning, the Foreign Minister of Belize, Wilfred Elrington, met with visiting [...]
I.C.J. Still the Only Way
There is still no protocol on the Sarstoon, even though the Foreign Minister was told by his then counterpart, Carlos Raul Morales that one would be concluded. But Elrington believes [...]
Sedi Disparages Eamon; Says Guats Will Stay the Course
The Foreign Minister has been a lightning rod for years. Many have called for his removal for statements he has made such as “artificial borders” and most recently, his persistence [...]
What Does Opposition Want?
The Opposition withdrew from talks with Guatemala because it was not kept wholly in the loop and has said that it had no confidence in the conduct of the FM [...]
Belizeans Tell News Five What the Jewel Means to Them
Most of Central America and Mexico celebrate independence this month. The youngest of the bunch, Belize, became an independent nation back on September twenty-first, 1981. In a few hours, the [...]
P.U.P. Wants ‘Best’ Team for City Municipals
The race to the 2018 municipal elections will resume in earnest in the coming weeks. While the People’s United Party has candidates in place in the north and west, all [...]
Elrington Says U.D.P. Handling Corruption Better than P.U.P.
Charges of rampant corruption continue to plague the Barrow administration, amid ongoing scandals involving former Minister of Natural Resources Gaspar Vega. But the Prime Minister Barrow has responded saying, “What [...]
Opposition Says Dissident Ministers Must Leave Cabinet
But Opposition Leader John Briceño believes that the current administration is the most corrupt and incompetent the country has ever seen. He says it was the antithesis of their platform [...]
Where is the Plan to Fight Crime?
John Briceño has unfailingly linked the issue of crime to economic activity and opportunity or the lack thereof. But with the resurgence of major crimes, particularly in south side Belize [...]
Meetings Held, But No Resolution on Petrocaribe Stoppage
News Five has confirmed with the local Petrocaribe office that meetings took place this week hoping to hash out a solution to delivering fuel from Venezuela under the Petrocaribe Accord [...]
Environmentalists Hit Back as Sedi Champions Offshore Drilling
At Monday’s University of Belize lecture on security threats to Belize, Minister of Foreign and Home Affairs Wilfred Elrington made pointed comments at the environmental lobby against offshore drilling for [...]
Death Toll Rises in Mexico Quake; Belize Authorities Looking for Our Own
More than two hundred and twenty people, including twenty-one school children, are dead in Mexico after Tuesday’s seven point one earthquake. The deadly quake toppled buildings and cut off power [...]
Dominica Counts Cost of Hurricane Maria
Within a span of fifteen hours, Hurricane Maria went from a category one to a category five storm. The catastrophic storm hit the island of Dominica on Monday night – [...]
“The Puerto Rico and the San Juan That We Knew Yesterday Is No Longer There…”
After the hurricane devastated that island, it moved over towards the U.S. Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico where it made landfall on Puerto Rico shortly after six this morning as [...]
Independence Eve, 36 Years Ago
Back in 1981, the then Premier of Belize, the Right Honorable George Price’s led this country to independence and at midnight, for the first time, the red, white and blue [...]
A Visit to the 21st Expo Belize Marketplace
The twenty-first anniversary of the Expo Belize Market Place was a landmark event with a whopping one hundred and four companies utilizing one hundred and ninety booths. The figures are [...]
CTV3
Corozal Police Seeks Advice From DPP On charges For Fatal Traffic Accident
Corozal Police authorities have indicated to CTV-3 News that they are awaiting on legal guidance from the office of the Director of Public Prosecution to know whether they will proceed with charges against 41 year old Francis Sharp in relation to the traffic accident that occurred on September 9th, which claimed the life of a Corozal Town mother of two while injuring two others. 40 year old Claudia Arana Martinez, one of the victims, passed away on Friday September 15th morning at the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital in Belize City due to serious injuries she sustained.
BPP & PUP Chastise GOB For Inaction At Sarstoon
The main Opposition, People’s United Party, also released a statement on the issue, stating its [quote] “strongest condemnation of the actions of the Guatemalan Armed Forces and the inaction of the Government following the blatant harassment of Belizeans within out territorial waters” [end quote].
The PUP notes in its statement that Guatemalans stationed at the Sarstoon have maintained operational control of the entire Sarstoon River, and the Government of Belize through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has committed a gross error in allowing this to happen. The PUP adds that on various occasions SATIIM rangers have been turned back from routine patrols of the Sarstoon Temash National Park.
Chunox Fishermen Charged for Undersized Lobster
On Saturday September 16th thirteen fishermen from the village of Chunox in the Corozal District were caught by a team of officers from the fisheries department in possession of over one hundred undersized lobsters. The officers were conducting patrol around the lighthouse atoll when they spotted the vessel and proceeded to execute a search which resulted in the discovery of 121 lobsters not exceeding the prescribed 4 ounces. All thirteen men were charged for the undersized lobsters, today in court however Thirty one year old Delcio Tun, one of the fishermen caught assumed possession of the lobsters and pled guilty to the charge of possession of undersized lobsters.
Ambassador Of Belgium Presents Credentials To GG
His Excellency Antoine Evrard, Ambassador of Belgium, presented his Letter of Credence today to the Governor General of Belize H.E. Sir Colville Young at the Belize House in the City of Belmopan.
Ambassador Evrard expressed his pleasure in being in Belize during the 36th anniversary of independence, and conveyed his country’s commitment to continue to strengthen bilateral relations with Belize. The Governor General accepted his credentials, welcomed him to Belize and expressed his gratitude to Belgium’s commitment to Belize.
GAF Harasses Participants Of Sarstoon Eco-Challenge
The second annual Sarstoon Island Eco Challenge took place on Saturday September 16th. This is a canoe race which sees paddlers leave from Barranco towards the Sarstoon Island. The winner is the one who circles the Sarstoon Island first, along the Belize side of the Southern Channel, and does it in the shortest time period. The event also seeks to raise awareness not only of the geographic location of the island, but also of the vulnerability of the environment.
This year’s event didn’t occur with less controversy than last year as there are reports that up to five Guatemalan Armed Forces boats showed up, entered Belizean waters and intimidated the participants in the race.
According to one of the Belize Territorial Volunteer leaders David Espadas, although it’s not his first time in the Sarstoon area, and neither was it the first time the Guatemalan military show their presence, it still made him a bit nervous.
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Will Petrocaribe keep rolling?
Love News has confirmed with a high government official that PetroCaribe is back on track. According to our source, the Venezuelan delegation met with Prime Minister and Minister of Finance Dean Barrow yesterday and it is safe to say that the suspension is expected to be lifted pretty soon. The delegation left today and we […]
Integrity Commission calls on elected officials to submit financials
The Integrity Commission of Belize has still not received the full cooperation of persons in public office as many are yet to declare their financial affairs for 2016. That is what the Commission announced today in a press release. On July 15, the Commission gazetted a list of these individuals. These included ten members of […]
Opposition Leader says Government has no clue in fighting crime
Crime in the country continues on an upward trend and the number of violent crimes in Belize City alone has seen a surge over the last weeks. To date, there are ninety-seven murders. The statistics are concerning, but not for Minister of Home Affairs Wilfred Elrington. In his address at the University Of Belize at […]
Opposition Leader gears up for Independence Day speech
It is the eve of Belize’s Independence and as is customary, the country’s Prime Minister and the Leader of the Opposition will gather in Belmopan to address the nation at the Independence Day Celebrations. On Tuesday, Opposition Leader John Briceño explained why he missed the September tenth ceremonies. He will, however, be present for tomorrow’s […]
UNDP host member of diplomatic corps
Every year United Nations Development Programme, UNDP, and UN Agencies host international diplomats in Belize. The purpose is to bring diplomats such as ambassadors and representatives from cooperation agencies to discuss how to jointly advance the development of Belize. UNDP Country Representative, Christian Salazar, told us more. Christian Salazar – UNDP Country Representative “This was […]
CARICOM Consular Corps to send aid to Hurricane victims
As Hurricane Maria continues its destructive path across the Caribbean, some members of the CARICOM Consular Corps have mobilized in order to assist affected Caribbean citizens. The group has collected canned goods, clothing, baby diapers and toiletries. The items will be shipped immediately through the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency. The corps includes the Consul […]
International delegation visits Adjacency Zone
Yesterday, a delegation of European Union Ambassadors visited the General Secretariat of the Organization of American States Office in the Belize-Guatemala Adjacency Zone. The objective of the visit was to learn firsthand about the work of the OAS Adjacency Zone office and receive a briefing on the most recent developments in the process by the […]
Prosecution not ready, Doehms’ case pushed back
A further disclosure session was scheduled for today in respect to the case involving David and Anke Doehm. The American couple was charged for child cruelty after an autopsy on Anke’s adoptive daughter, 13 year old Faye Lin Cannon revealed that the little girl was sexually and physically abused. The disclosure session was unable to […]
UB Professor talks about recession
According to the Statistical Institute of Belize, Belize’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) was up point eight percent for the first quarter and by one point one percent for the second quarter. This is an indicator that the country is finally bouncing back from a recession with the GDP up for the second consecutive quarter in […]
The fight for Minimum Wage continues
The Statistical Institute of Belize noted that for the month of July, the cost of transport went up by 6.3% and the cost of water, housing, electricity, gas and other fuels by 0.4%. Dr. Leroy Almendarez of the University of Belize explained how people in the minimum wage bracket might be affected. Dr. Leroy Almendarez […]
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