Belize moves closer to stronger tobacco-control legislation 

The Ministry of Health and Wellness continued discussions with a visiting Pan American Health Organization country mission on advancing Belize’s proposed Tobacco Control Bill.  The meeting was held on Monday and included Minister of Health and Wellness Kevin Bernard and members of the Ministry’s management team.  Discussions focused on increasing public awareness of the proposed legislation, examining tobacco taxation and strengthening Belize’s capacity to enforce the measures if the bill becomes law. The talks also considered the technical and institutional support that may be required during implementation.  The proposed legislation is expected to form part of Belize’s wider effort to reduce tobacco use and exposure to tobacco-related harm.  The Ministry says it remains committed to working with PAHO and other partners to identify the necessary support and determine the next steps toward the eventual adoption and implementation of the Tobacco Control Bill.  In August last year, Cabinet had given its approval to the Bill which went to the House of Representatives in February.    The Bill seeks to regulate the sale, packaging, marketing and use of tobacco across the country.  The government has teamed up with the PanAmerican Health Organization (PAHO) to look at the regional policies and practices regarding smoking.  According to Dr. Andrei Chell, Director of Policy, Planning and Research, says that banning indoor smoking will help to address various health issues in the country.