The much-anticipated Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) Bill in Belize is nearing its final legislative stages after undergoing extensive consultations and revisions. Spearheaded by the Ministry of Labour and the Attorney General’s Ministry, the bill has been refined through feedback from diverse stakeholders, ensuring it addresses critical workplace safety concerns. Valentino Shal, CEO of the Ministry of Labour, emphasized the importance of stakeholder input in strengthening the legislation. ‘Their feedback has been instrumental in clarifying and enhancing the law to better protect workers’ interests,’ Shal stated. The revised bill, which aims to elevate workplace safety standards nationwide, has been returned to the House Committee for final review. Shal confirmed that it will be presented to the House during the next scheduled meeting. He expressed gratitude to all stakeholders for their contributions and support throughout the process, marking a significant step forward in Belize’s commitment to occupational safety and health.
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PSU Puts Labor Ministry on Notice
The Ministry of Labour has officially acknowledged receipt of a formal industrial action notice from the Public Service Union (PSU), marking a significant escalation in tensions over the government’s plan to transform the Tax Service Department into a Semi-Autonomous Revenue Authority (SARA). The notice, submitted on November 6, 2025, is currently under review by the ministry. Valentino Shal, CEO of the Ministry of Labour, confirmed the receipt and stated that the ministry is preparing a response while conducting internal discussions to address the union’s concerns. The PSU has consistently warned that the transition to SARA could undermine employee benefits and job security, alleging that they were excluded from critical consultations. Dean Flowers, the union’s president, has further challenged the government’s claims of increased revenue, arguing that there is insufficient evidence to support these projections. The dispute highlights broader concerns about the financial and operational implications of the transition, particularly its impact on public officers. As the ministry deliberates on its next steps, the situation remains a focal point of contention between the government and its workforce.
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COP30 Opens Global Climate Talk
The 30th United Nations Climate Conference (COP30) commenced this week in Belém, Brazil, bringing together over 150 world leaders to address the escalating climate crisis. As the planet teeters on the brink of irreversible damage, COP30 represents a pivotal moment to accelerate global efforts to combat climate change. The conference comes a decade after the landmark Paris Agreement, with the world still far from meeting its goal of limiting global warming to 1.5°C. The urgency is underscored by 2024 being the hottest year on record, with Earth’s average temperature surpassing the critical 1.5°C threshold. This seemingly small increase has already triggered devastating consequences, including more intense storms, rising sea levels, and the destruction of ecosystems and communities. Small island and coastal nations, such as Belize, are bearing the brunt of these impacts, despite contributing the least to global emissions. UN Secretary-General António Guterres emphasized the need for immediate action, urging leaders to focus on implementation rather than negotiation. Key priorities include advancing renewable energy, halting deforestation, and building climate-resilient infrastructure. However, developing nations face significant challenges, as climate finance pledges remain unmet. The $100 billion annual climate finance target, first promised in 2009, has yet to be realized, leaving many countries struggling with debt and recovery costs. Caribbean nations, recently devastated by Hurricane Melissa, are calling for fairer systems that address loss and damage, provide debt relief, and support rebuilding efforts. With COP30 underway, the world watches to see if this conference will translate promises into tangible progress or if it will be another missed opportunity in the fight against climate change.
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COMMENTARY: Steinberg Henry PhD previews Ian Jackson’s book on Fitzroy Williams
Ian Jackson’s latest publication, *They Gather in Times of Need: In Memory of Fitzroy “Dyer” Williams*, pays homage to one of Dominica’s most revered musical legends. Compiled by Jackson, the book fulfills a personal request from Williams himself, who entrusted Jackson with documenting his life and legacy. Through meticulous research and heartfelt storytelling, Jackson captures the essence of Williams’ journey, from his early days to his global influence on music. The publication delves into Williams’ contributions to Cadence and French Creole music, his collaborations with international artists like Jimmy Cliff and Sparrow, and his role in shaping Dominica’s musical identity. Jackson also highlights Williams’ iconic 1987 hit *Fraiche*, a song that embodies nostalgia and a deep connection to nature. The book is enriched with photographs, personal anecdotes, and French translations by Jermainia Didier, making it a cultural treasure. Jackson’s work not only celebrates Williams’ life but also ensures his legacy endures, offering readers a profound insight into the man behind the music. The publication concludes with a moving account of Williams’ funeral and vigil, attended by Dominica’s finest musicians and cultural figures, cementing his place in history as a musical pioneer.
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BTL Severance Case Triggers Labour Department Review
The Ministry of Labour in Belize has initiated a comprehensive review following a landmark ruling by the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) that could redefine severance and pension obligations in the country. The case, involving ten retirees from Belize Telemedia Limited (BTL), has set a significant legal precedent by affirming that severance pay is an inherent legal right, not subject to contractual waivers or substitution by pension benefits. Some of the retirees were compelled to leave their positions at age 55, while others opted for early retirement. Despite receiving pensions, they contended that they were still entitled to severance pay under Belize’s Labour Act. Valentino Shal, CEO of the Ministry of Labour, described the ruling as ‘groundbreaking’ and confirmed that internal discussions are ongoing to evaluate its broader implications. ‘This morning I briefly discussed it with the Labour Commissioner,’ Shal stated. ‘It’s very significant, and we are at this moment reviewing it.’ The ruling, issued on Wednesday, could influence how employers transition from severance schemes to pension plans. Shal emphasized the need for a thorough examination of the decision to determine its impact on both public and private sectors. ‘We need to carefully examine the ruling and the implications,’ he added. ‘It’s very important that we acknowledge it, and we respect the ruling. And of course, begin to ensure that there is compliance.’ When questioned about potential legal action against Belize Telemedia Limited, Shal refrained from direct commentary but reiterated the ministry’s commitment to fully understanding the ruling before proceeding.
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Attorney General Peter cites backlog in DA’s court system, hopeful outlook
Attorney General Levi Peter has shed light on the persistent backlog within Dominica’s justice system, expressing confidence that recent systemic upgrades, facilitated by a donation of equipment, will significantly alleviate the issue. Speaking at a ceremony on Wednesday, where the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) PACE Justice Project handed over equipment to the Government of Dominica, Peter acknowledged the extensive nature of the problem. He emphasized the critical importance of addressing delays, particularly in criminal cases, which directly impact individual liberties. While civil cases often involve financial matters, Peter clarified that the urgency in criminal cases stems from their profound implications on personal freedom. The Attorney General highlighted the necessity of a streamlined system capable of resolving court matters promptly. He noted that the donated equipment, distributed across various departments including the police, magistrates’ court, high court, and prisons, is already yielding positive results. Peter expressed optimism that the long-term benefits of these upgrades will be substantial, fostering a more efficient justice system. He also underscored the collaborative efforts of the government, aiming to serve not only Dominica but the broader Caribbean region, where similar challenges are prevalent. Peter remains hopeful that the backlog will see a significant reduction and that other systemic issues will be addressed in due course.
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Govt mulls residency without right to vote for migrant workers
The Guyana government is contemplating a policy that would grant migrant workers residency status without extending them the right to vote in elections. Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo announced this potential measure during a news conference on Thursday, November 6, 2025. He emphasized that such a provision would align with practices observed in other nations and could be integrated into the ongoing constitutional reform process. Currently, Guyana’s Constitution allows citizens of Commonwealth countries residing in Guyana for at least one year to vote. Jagdeo highlighted the importance of preserving the nation’s identity while addressing labor shortages through migrant integration. Additionally, he revealed plans to introduce compulsory electronic identification (e-ID) cards for both migrants and Guyanese citizens. These e-ID cards will be linked to the Smart Country video surveillance system, which includes 4,000 facial recognition cameras, enhancing national security by enabling real-time biometric identification across the country.
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Maduro Launches “Snitch” App Amid U.S. Tensions
Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has unveiled a controversial update to the VenApp mobile application, transforming it into a surveillance tool aimed at monitoring potential threats. Originally introduced in 2022 to report utility issues, the app now encourages citizens to flag suspicious individuals or activities, particularly in light of escalating tensions with the United States. The move has sparked widespread concern among human rights organizations, who warn of potential abuses of privacy and civil liberties. Activist group Venezuela Sin Filtro described the initiative as a significant threat to freedom of expression and security, while Amnesty International cautioned that it could lead to unlawful arrests and detentions. Despite being removed from Apple and Google app stores in 2024, VenApp remains accessible through a government-supported browser version. Reports from Caracas indicate that citizens are being urged to report drones or individuals deemed suspicious. This development coincides with heightened U.S. military presence in the southern Caribbean, ostensibly to combat drug trafficking. Maduro, who has faced international scrutiny over contested elections and widespread protests, has framed the app as a necessary security measure.
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Saint Lucia Eye Success in Eastern Caribbean Volleyball
A determined Saint Lucia volleyball team is set to compete in the Eastern Caribbean Volleyball Association (ECVA) Under-23 Men’s Championship, scheduled for November 12–17 at the YMCA in St John’s, Antigua & Barbuda. After clinching the title in 2021 but missing the playoffs in 2023, Saint Lucia is eager to reclaim its position at the top. This year’s tournament will feature six teams, including host nation Antigua & Barbuda, Dominica, Grenada, Anguilla, and defending champions St Vincent & the Grenadines. The Saint Lucia squad, comprising 10 players, includes a mix of seasoned athletes and promising talents. Notably, Peter Emmanuel, an 18-year-old middle blocker, and setter Delano Baptiste, both returning from the 2023 campaign, are expected to play pivotal roles. Captain Daniel Mayers-James, who was named MVP in this year’s inter-school competition, will lead the team. The tournament format includes a single round-robin stage followed by playoffs, with Saint Lucia opening against St Vincent & the Grenadines. The champions will not only receive gold medals and a prestigious trophy but also secure a spot in the NORCECA 2026 Pan American Cup. ECVA president Glenn Quinlan emphasized the championship’s role in bridging junior and senior national teams and elevating regional competitiveness. Teams will compete using the elite Mikasa V200W ball, ensuring high-quality play.
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West Indies fall 3 runs short despite fireworks from Powell, Shepherd
In a heart-stopping encounter on Thursday, November 6, New Zealand narrowly defeated the West Indies by just 3 runs in Auckland, leveling the five-match T20 international series at 1-1. The match, filled with dramatic twists, showcased the resilience of both teams but ultimately saw the Black Caps emerge victorious.