The Public Service Union (PSU) in Belize is on the brink of declaring a trade dispute as tensions escalate over the government’s plan to transition into the Semi-Autonomous Revenue Agency (SARA). PSU President Dean Flowers has voiced frustration, stating that the union’s concerns have been consistently ignored, with only one meeting held to address the issue. Prime Minister John Briceño maintains that the shift to SARA is essential for improving efficiency and boosting revenue but acknowledges the union’s right to strike if necessary. Flowers has outlined the legal steps required before any industrial action, including notifying the Minister of Labor to attempt mediation. He emphasized that while strike action remains a last resort, the union is prepared to explore various forms of protest to safeguard essential services and protect national revenue streams. The situation remains fluid as both sides await potential intervention from the Ministry of Labor.