Belize Tax Services employees are preparing for a confrontation with the government over the proposed transition to the Semi-Autonomous Revenue Agency (SARA). While officials claim the move will enhance efficiency and increase revenue, the Public Service Union (PSU) remains skeptical. The union has raised concerns for months, warning that employees could lose essential benefits and face job security uncertainties. Additionally, they question the validity of the government’s revenue-boosting claims, citing a lack of concrete evidence. PSU President Dean Flowers has highlighted the growing discontent among workers, emphasizing the government’s failure to address their concerns. Following a recent meeting, the union has declared a formal dispute and issued a 21-day notice to the Minister of Labor, signaling potential industrial action. Flowers criticized the Briceño administration for its lack of accountability and transparency, stressing that public officers deserve clear communication and dialogue. The escalating tension underscores the broader challenges in Belize’s public sector reforms.
