The Belize Agricultural Health Authority (BAHA) is under scrutiny following the dismissal of two employees, which has sparked allegations of labor rule violations. The Public Service Union (PSU) has accused BAHA of breaching its Collective Bargaining Agreement, citing a lack of due process in the terminations. One employee was let go in August, and another last week, raising concerns about fair treatment and adherence to established procedures. PSU President Dean Flowers emphasized that the disciplinary process, as outlined in the agreement and aligned with the Belize Constitution, was disregarded. Flowers stated that the employees were summarily dismissed without compensation, effectively nullifying their 15 years of service. The union plans to escalate the matter to the Labor Commissioner, who may refer the cases to the Labor Complaints Tribunal. If unsatisfied with the tribunal’s decision, the employees and the union reserve the right to pursue the case in the Supreme Court. This controversy highlights the tension between statutory bodies and labor protections, with potential implications for workplace justice in Belize.
