The Public Service Union (PSU) has officially commenced industrial action procedures in response to the government’s plan to transform the Tax Service Department into a Semi-Autonomous Revenue Authority (SARA). The union has raised concerns over potential threats to job security and employee benefits, prompting this decisive move. The Ministry of Labour acknowledged receipt of the notice on Wednesday and is currently evaluating the situation. Valentino Shal, the ministry’s Chief Executive Officer, stated that an official response is being prepared, with internal discussions underway to determine the next steps. Dean Flowers, the union’s president, emphasized that this action follows numerous unsuccessful attempts to engage the government in dialogue. He criticized the administration for failing to adequately address staff concerns or provide convincing evidence of the purported efficiency and revenue gains under the new model. While the Prime Minister has defended the transition as essential for modernizing revenue collection, Flowers clarified that the union is adhering to legal protocols before escalating the matter. ‘As an essential services department, the law requires us to give the Minister of Labour an opportunity to resolve the current impasse,’ he explained. Although the PSU has not yet disclosed specific timelines for further action, it has indicated that various forms of industrial activity are under consideration. While a strike remains a last resort, the union warns that the government’s current approach could endanger both employees’ livelihoods and public revenue streams.
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Solar and Water Expansion Reaches More Villages
Belize is making significant strides in its mission to provide universal access to electricity and clean water, with only 22 villages remaining without power and 15 lacking running water. Recent developments include the addition of solar installations in Otoxha and Mabil Ha, two communities now benefiting from the government’s renewable energy initiatives. Valentino Shal, CEO of the Ministry of Rural Transformation, emphasized the ongoing progress, stating, ‘We keep ticking off the boxes when it comes to electricity.’ The national effort aims to ensure that all villages are connected to essential utilities by 2030. Water access is also expanding, with most of the remaining unserved villages located in the Toledo District and one in Corozal awaiting connection. Shal reaffirmed the government’s commitment, declaring, ‘By 2030, everybody in Belize will have running water.’ This initiative underscores Belize’s dedication to improving the quality of life for its citizens through sustainable infrastructure development.
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Half a Million Lost? Investors Cry Foul in Luxury Lodge Dispute
A promising investment in a luxury eco-lodge in Burrell Boom, Belize, has devolved into a contentious legal battle, leaving American investors outraged and alleging fraud. The project, named ‘Howler Jungle House and Cabanas,’ was envisioned as a high-end retreat for nature-loving travelers. However, what began as a partnership between three U.S. investors and Belizean couple Kenny and Shanna Williams has now been marred by accusations of financial mismanagement, inflated costs, and withheld property access. Dr. Sade Thompson, one of the investors, claims she and her partners poured over $500,000 into the venture, only to see costs spiral out of control without proper documentation. Consultant Jazmynn Tillett, brought in to mediate, revealed that the Williamses billed investors based on supplier quotes rather than actual receipts. The investors now seek to remove their structures from the property, while the Williamses deny all allegations and threaten legal action to defend their reputation. The dispute highlights the risks of cross-border investments and the challenges of navigating complex partnerships in the hospitality industry.
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FSC Launches New Online Licensing System
In a significant move toward digital transformation, Belize’s Financial Services Commission (FSC) introduced LicenSys, a cutting-edge digital platform aimed at modernizing licensing and regulatory processes for the non-bank financial sector. The official launch occurred on November 3, 2025, in Belmopan, marking a pivotal step in the FSC’s journey toward full digital integration. LicenSys consolidates all licensing, registration, and supervision services into a single, user-friendly online system, streamlining operations for both regulators and industry participants. The platform enables secure document submission, real-time application tracking, and expedited processing, significantly enhancing operational efficiency. Importantly, it maintains robust regulatory standards as outlined in the Financial Services Commission Act and the Securities Industry Act. Leveraging automation and data-driven tools, LicenSys aims to bolster compliance and oversight, fostering a more competitive, transparent, and accessible financial sector in Belize. Claude Haylock, the FSC’s Director General, emphasized that this launch is merely the starting point of a long-term transformation journey, underscoring the Commission’s dedication to modernization and continuous improvement. Future phases of LicenSys will introduce advanced compliance features, automated reporting, and risk-based supervision tools, ensuring Belize remains aligned with international best practices. The FSC has pledged to collaborate closely with stakeholders to maximize the platform’s efficiency and impact, adapting to the evolving demands of the financial industry.
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Revised OSH Bill Nears Final Stage
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.