Tag:
Honorable Andre Perez
Community and Society
Sargassum continues to impact Ambergris Caye beaches; where are the skimmers?
The seasonal influx of Sargassum is currently impacting the beaches of San Pedro Town on Ambergris Caye. Hoteliers and restaurant owners are working to keep their areas free of brown algae. At the same time, the San Pedro Town Council (SPTC) has activated its Sargassum response plan to manage the incoming mats of seaweed. However, residents report that they have yet to see the Sargassum skimmers acquired last year, which are designed to capture the seaweed from the sea before it reaches the shore.
Community and Society
Fishermen and tour guides protest dredging and overwater structures at Cayo Rosario
On Tuesday, March 25th, a powerful and peaceful protest took place in the waters surrounding Cayo Rosario, a small island located within the Hol Chan Marine Reserve off the northwest coast of Ambergris Caye, Belize. Over 30 boats gathered for a united demonstration against the proposed dredging of the seabed and the construction of over-the-water structures, which have been contentious issues for years.
Government
Belizeans to be trained in India on Disaster Risk Management
The Belizean government is set to enhance its disaster risk management capabilities through a specialized training program. The Government of India has invited 22 Belizean officials from various ministries and departments to participate in a training initiative focused on Comprehensive Disaster Risk Management. This program aims to equip participants with essential skills for effective disaster response. Announced on March 11, 2025, it highlights Belize's commitment to improving its preparedness for natural disasters and public health emergencies.
Education
Child Stimulation Month focuses on unlocking early potential in children
Every year, March is celebrated as Child Stimulation Month in Belize, a time dedicated to promoting the growth and development of preschool children through engaging and educational activities. The festivities began on March 3rd this year with a vibrant parade in San Pedro Town. The event brought together preschoolers, teachers, parents, and guardians from various institutions across the island, highlighting the importance of early childhood education.
Community and Society
Government considers an international airport for northern Ambergris Caye
The concept of establishing an international airport in north San Pedro, Ambergris Caye, is not new. Although no concrete steps have been taken to...
Community and Society
Injunction against Artisan Marker Project at El Embarcadero dismissed
The construction of a new artisan market at the El Embarcadero site on Nurse Shark Street in downtown San Pedro has been allowed to continue after it was temporarily halted. An injunction was filed against the project in November 2024. On February 3rd, a judge in the High Court in Belize City dismissed the case, granting legal approval for the project led by the Ministry of Tourism and the Area Representative.
Environment
Conservation organizations disagree with Minister Perez’s statements regarding gillnet ban process
On February 21st, a joint press release by The Coalition for Sustainable Fisheries and Oceana stated that the Honorable Andre Perez, the Minister of Blue Economy in charge of the Belize Fisheries Department (BFD), misrepresented facts about Belize's gillnet ban. The statement emphasized that Perez's comments contradicted the transparent, multi-year process that led to the prohibition of gillnets in Belizean waters.
Community and Society
New Justices of the Peace appointed for Caye Caulker and Ambergris Caye
A new group of Justices of the Peace (JPs) was sworn in on Saturday, February 8th, in San Pedro Town, Ambergris Caye. The swearing-in ceremony was held at the San Pedro Lions Den on Barrier Reef Drive, where several members were also named Senior JPs. Belize's Attorney General, Anthony Sylvestre, conducted the ceremony, which appointed JPs for both Ambergris Caye and Caye Caulker.
