Government

In consequence, you know that this particular case is accompanied by some nightmarish circumstances as to the exposure of many persons to the patient before he died. In the result, the overall picture clearly demonstrates the possibility of widespread transmission of the virus. To try to contain this possibility, we must act now. The science, the experts, and the experience of other countries, all tell us that there is only one way to do this. To the maximum extent practicable, we must restrict movement and put a lid on contact. In other words, the time has now come to take the ultimate step for which we have been preparing. I, therefore, after consultation with the National Oversight Committee, announce that starting from tomorrow at 8:00 p.m. the entire country of Belize will be placed under quarantine. This will last for 14 days in the first instance, but may, of course, be extended.

Taiwan has donated an additional BZ$2 million to Belize for urgently needed additional PPE, medical equipment, testing kits, and laboratory supplies for frontline medical service providers countrywide.

The Belize Postal Service has temporarily suspended delivery of postal services at all post offices due to COVID-19. Some provisions have been made to accommodate customers.

As announced by the Prime Minister on April 6, 2020, additional measures including a lockdown for the Cayo District have been implemented in response to COVID-19 through a Statutory Instrument effective Tuesday, April 7, 2020. The Statutory Instrument provides for further amendment to the Emergency Powers regulations and offers additional measures to protect the citizens of Belize.

Minimizing the movement of persons is directly proportional to minimizing the movement of the virus, thus the Ministry asks for understanding and appreciation of the scope of this nation-wide operation.

Acting Chief Justice Michelle Arana makes history as the first female to be appointed to this post in Belize. Also sworn in for another term is Ombudsman Lionel Arzu.

The Government of Belize announces the launch of the COVID-19 eServices Portal through which persons may apply to the COVID-19 Unemployment Relief Program which is being established through the agreement of the co-chairs of the COVID-19 National Oversight Committee. The Central Information Technology Office posted the application form at 10:00 p.m. April 2nd, and within the first half hour over 60 persons made applications for unemployment relief.

The SPTC urges islanders to keep following the rules set in place for the first quarantine order. Once the 14 days are over on Monday, April 6th, and if there are no more positive cases, Mayor Guerrero indicated that the Emergency Operation Center will revisit/review the previous orders and move forward with a new plan.