As Oscar Requena prepares to transition from his role as Minister of Education to the Ministry of Rural Transformation, Community Development, and Local Government, he has responded to recent criticisms regarding his tenure. Requena firmly denied allegations of disrespecting teachers, emphasizing his deep respect for the profession. “I have always held our teachers in the highest regard, being a teacher myself. I fully understand the daily challenges they face,” he stated. He also defended his handling of teacher salary delays, asserting that the Ministry of Education acted in good faith and that information was not misrepresented. “There was no misconstrued information. I stand by my previous statements,” he said. Requena acknowledged the delays but attributed them to systemic issues beyond the ministry’s control. “These are recurring, perennial problems that teachers have faced for years,” he explained. He highlighted ongoing discussions with the Accountant General, the Treasury Department, and the Belize National Teachers’ Union (BNTU) to resolve the matter. Requena also criticized school managements for their role in the delays, stating, “Managements have failed to submit necessary information on time, which hinders the salary processing.” Earlier this month, BNTU President Nadia Caliz threatened industrial action over unpaid salaries, but Requena downplayed the possibility, stating, “Industrial action is not on the table as we have addressed the issue.” He noted that ministry representatives have held numerous meetings with BNTU leadership to advance discussions. Regarding his reassignment, Requena expressed his willingness to serve in any capacity directed by the Prime Minister. “We serve at the pleasure of the Prime Minister, and I am ready for my new role,” he concluded.