GoB rejects several major demands from the NTUCB

The Briceño administration has rejected several major demands from the National Trade Union Congress of Belize (NTUCB), including calls for changes at Belize Telemedia Limited and the Public Utilities Commission. In a letter dated September 15, Prime Minister John Briceño provided Cabinet’s formal response to demands submitted by the union in August.  Cabinet rejected the union’s request to remove BTL’s chairman and government-appointed directors, saying there is no legal basis for doing so. The Prime Minister also defended the board’s performance, pointing to record profits during the last financial year and arguing that the unsuccessful attempt to acquire Speednet is not sufficient reason to dismiss its members.

The government also declined to introduce a tripartite structure at BTL, noting that the labour movement already has representation through the Social Security Board. Cabinet similarly rejected the proposed restructuring of the Public Utilities Commission, stressing that the PUC is an autonomous institution whose commissioners are appointed through a legally established process.  Government did, however, welcome the proposal for closer coordination with the unions. The Prime Minister encouraged continued engagement with the Joint Union Negotiating Team (JUNT) and proposed quarterly meetings. On governance reforms, Cabinet said the final draft of the Protected Disclosures Bill has been shared with the unions and the Belize Chamber of Commerce and Industry for review. A meeting is scheduled for October 22. Draft campaign-finance legislation is also expected to be submitted to Cabinet by December 8, after which it would be shared with social partners and other stakeholders.  The Prime Minister said work is also progressing to establish the Civil Recovery Authority Unit under the Financial Intelligence Unit. A budget is being finalized to operationalize the office. Regarding the vacant post of Ombudsman, Briceño said interviews have been completed and the bipartisan Ombudsman Reports Committee is expected to submit its recommendations shortly.  Cabinet also refused the NTUCB’s request to halt the Revenue Authority Bill. The government said the reform is necessary to improve revenue collection and meet commitments made to international partners. It has pledged to work with the Public Service Union and Tax Department employees to address legitimate concerns during the transition.  In response to demands from the Belize National Teachers’ Union, the Ministry of Education has proposed a joint working group to discuss August duties and the delivery of professional-development training. The ministry is also willing to discuss classroom-resource support, including whether assistance should be provided in cash or through materials.  The government additionally reported that the University of Belize’s annual subvention increased from seven-point-six million dollars in 2020 to ten million dollars in 2026. It is scheduled to increase by one million dollars annually from 2027 until it reaches fifteen million dollars.  Prime Minister Briceño concluded that the government could not accept all the proposals at this time but remains committed to continued consultation with the unions.