Community and Society
Royals will not visit Indian Creek in the Toledo District after villagers protest
Prince William and his wife Kate have reportedly canceled one of their stops in Belize during their official visit, which starts today, Saturday, March 19th. The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge were to visit the Akte ‘il Ha cacao farm in the village of Indian Creek, Toledo, but following a protest by some of the villagers opposing the visit, the engagement was scrapped.
Community and Society
Royal Visit: Prince William and wife Kate, the Duchess of Cambridge arrive in Belize tomorrow
Belize is making final preparations for the official royal visit of Prince William and Kate Middleton, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge. The royal couple is visiting the country as part of the celebration commemorating Queen Elizabeth’s II Platinum Jubilee. They will arrive in Belize on Saturday, March 19th, for a three-day visit.
Community and Society
Increase in Social Security contributions go into effect in April
The scheduled increase in Social Security contributions goes into effect on Monday, April 4th, translating to a rise from 9% to 10% and raising the insurable wage ceiling from $480 to $520. This upcoming change increases the maximum cash benefit of $416 weekly for short-term benefits and $312 weekly or $16,224 yearly for pensions.
Community and Society
Mayor says the island’s economy rebounding; more delays in Town Council financial report
Although the San Pedro Town Council (SPTC) is yet to provide a financial report, as promised, Mayor Gualberto ‘Wally’ Nuñez says his administration is managing well and the island’s economy is recovering.
Community and Society
BWS says low water pressure and interruptions will be resolved before Easter
The situation with low water pressure and interruptions affecting San Pedro Town may soon end. As per Belize Water Services (BWS), the issue will be resolved before the Easter holidays next month. The water company said via an official note on Thursday, March 17th, that a major mechanical malfunction due to a damaged gearbox had disabled one of their drive trains at the water treatment plant on the island. Although the gearbox is repaired, the mechanical malfunction caused a dent in the water reserves; thus, for several more days, islanders can expect low water pressure and late-night interruptions to maintain minimum storage levels and allow supplies during peak hours.
Community and Society
Prime Minister Briceño announces hospital for San Pedro Town
As previously indicated by Area Representative Honourable Andre Perez regarding the securement of funds for building a hospital in San Pedro Town, on Tuesday, March 15th, it was confirmed that islanders would finally get the long-awaited medical facility. Briceño announced during his budget presentation saying that the financing for the island hospital is a $33 million grant from the people and government of the Republic of China (Taiwan).
Community and Society
Mayor says height of bridge extension not to affect passage of boats below
Work adding an extension to the Sir Barry Bowen Bridge at Boca del Rio continues. Once this is complete, the original bridge will be dismantled and rebuilt, turning it into a two-lane concrete structure. The bridge will not only be stronger, but according to Mayor Gualberto ‘Wally’ Nuñez, it will maintain a reasonable clearance allowing for the passage of large boats below.
Community and Society
Low water pressure and interruptions in San Pedro continues
The issue of low water pressure and water interruptions continues in San Pedro Town, and according to the Belize Water Services (BWS), it is all due to emergency plant maintenance. While this has been the case for weeks now, the problem may continue well into next week or until the water company can remedy the situation.