Community and Society
Minister of the Blue Economy comments on the proposed development of Cayo Rosario
The controversial Cayo Rosario development of Ambergris Caye is again a concern to residents of San Pedro Town. The proposed tourism development, which has received environmental clearance and green light for construction, includes over-the-water structures. These buildings will be erected above protected fishing flats - the bloodline of the local flyfishing industry. The area also lies in the middle of the Hol Chan Marine Reserve. For these reasons, stakeholders continue to oppose the development and hope that the new administration will intervene and save the multi-million-dollar industry, which is the livelihood of many.
Community and Society
ComPol warns COVID-19 regulation violators; orders formation commanders to enforce COVID-19 regulations
As COVID-19 numbers slowly creep back up across the country, Commissioner of Police (ComPol) Chester Williams sent a memorandum to all formation commanders directing them to rigidly enforce the quarantine regulations, which in particular prohibits mass gatherings and social events.
Community and Society
Mexico donates 100,000 doses of AstraZeneca vaccine
On Saturday, June 12th, the Government of Mexico announced a donation of 400,000 doses of the AstraZeneca vaccine against COVID-19 to Belize, Bolivia, and Paraguay. Belize was the first country to receive its share of this generous donation of 100,000 doses which were delivered at the Philip Goldson International Airport by the Mexican Air Force.
Community and Society
Supt. Henry Jemmott is laid to rest in his hometown of Dangriga
Henry Jemmott was laid to rest with an official funeral in his hometown of Dangriga, in southern Stann Creek District. Dangriga’s police formation, officers from across the country and Minister of Police Honourable Kareem Musa were in attendance.
Community and Society
Calendar of events for the San Pedro Lobster Festival announced
While Caye Caulker is not hosting their annual lobster fest due to COVID-19, the anticipated event, which celebrates the opening of the lobster season, is set to take place in San Pedro Town. On Friday, June 11th, the San Pedro Lobster Festival committee announced a schedule of events revealing the different venues of this year’s Lobster Crawl. Traditionally this culminates with a block party at Central Park; however, there will be no block party this year.
Community and Society
SATIIM Board Confirms New Executive Director
As the first Program Coordinator of SATIIM’s Women’s Program, Ms. Ch’oc demonstrated a high level of proficiency in both technical and interpersonal skills, including project management, staff supervision, community outreach and administration. As Executive Director, she brings new energy and perspectives to SATIIM’s programs in the defense of human rights and the environment, the promotion of sustainable community development, and the leadership of women and youth.
Community and Society
World Oceans Day observed in San Pedro with beach clean-up; other environmental entities encourage Belizeans to take care of the sea
This year's theme for the annual Oceans Day is 'The Ocean: Life and livelihood.' In San Pedro, the sea is an essential source of livelihood for the fishing and tourism sector. Thus, the San Pedro Town Council, via its Councillor Johnnia Duarte, carried out the beach clean-up with the support of islanders Elito Arceo and Miguel Alamilla. The activity saw adults and children participating in what has become a constant attempt to keep the beach clean and the sea free of hazardous rubbish.
Community and Society
Sir Barry Bowen Bridge undergoes much-needed repairs
Repairs are underway at the Sir Barry Bowen Bridge in the Boca del Rio area. The major problem seems to be corrosion, and the top iron beams need to be replaced. The bridge is the only way to access the northern part of the island, so its refurbishment is paramount for residents and businesses.