Cabinet Reviewing Bus Operators’ Request as Service Suspension Threat Looms

Prime Minister John Briceño was asked about the Belize Bus Association’s threat today, following the Association’s warning that its members could suspend services if assistance is not provided. The Prime Minister says Cabinet is currently reviewing the matter and will decide whether Government can assist the bus operators.

John Briceño, Prime Minister of Belize: “It is a matter for the cabinet. The last time they came and they made a compelling case and we accepted to give them up subsidy. But you can’t govern by fear. Come and make a case. Now they’re saying that they sent it about a month ago. Probably they did. But the point is now that he has not gone to cabinet. And we’re going to take a look at it. If we can, we will give them. And if we can’t, we’ll explain to them, “I’m sorry, we can’t do it at this moment.” And it’s up to them if they want to strike again, like I tell everybody it is your right, guaranteed under the constitution.”

Asked specifically about the possibility of a strike, the Prime Minister says the bus operators have a right to take industrial action.