Government Open to Dialogue Amid PSU Threats of Strike

The Government of Belize has expressed its willingness to engage in discussions with the Public Service Union (PSU) and employees of the Belize Tax Service (BTS) following reports of potential strike action. The unrest stems from the department’s transition into the Statutory Authority for Revenue Administration (SARA), a new statutory body aimed at modernizing revenue management. Minister of Public Service, Henry Usher, emphasized that while no formal strike notice has been issued, the government is committed to addressing employee concerns. Usher highlighted that the transition to SARA is part of a long-term public sector reform initiative, not an abrupt change. He assured employees that those unwilling to join SARA would have opportunities to continue their roles in other public service sectors. The government remains open to dialogue with the PSU and public officers to resolve the issues amicably.