By Belize Live News Staff: The National Trade Union Congress of Belize (NTUCB) has formally objected to the government’s decision to move forward with the compulsory acquisition of 23 acres of land on Stake Bank Island, voicing its concerns in a detailed five-page letter to Prime Minister John Briceño.
In its letter, the NTUCB expressed strong opposition to the government’s use of the compulsory acquisition law, stating that the intervention was unnecessary and calling for alternative solutions. The union criticized the acquisition process, claiming it does not meet the requirements for public use and urging the government to reconsider.
Furthermore, the NTUCB included a comprehensive list of questions for the government to address before the final declaration of acquisition, scheduled for publication on October 8th. These questions reportedly focus on the technical aspects of the acquisition, challenging the rationale behind seizing private land for what the union argues is not a public purpose.
It remains to be seen how the government will respond to the objections raised by one of Belize’s most prominent unions. As of now, the Prime Minister has not publicly addressed the letter.