NTUCB Slams Government Over Salary Disparities, Says Workers Are Mobilized

The National Trade Union Congress of Belize (NTUCB) has issued a strong statement in support of its affiliate unions, including the Belize National Teachers Union (BNTU) and the Public Service Union (PSU), as they advocate for their rights.  The NTUCB emphasized that the right to agitate, demonstrate, and strike is fundamental to unionism, especially when workers’ concerns are ignored. The organization criticized the government for what it calls “unconscionable and morally bankrupt” actions, highlighting that while public officers and educators seek long-overdue salary adjustments and the unfreezing of increments, the administration has granted “bloated contracts and unjustifiable salary hikes” to a select few, notably Chief Executive Officers and the Cabinet Secretary. The NTUCB views these actions as a direct insult to public servants and is demanding accountability, transparency, and equity in the administration of public funds.  The NTUCB urged the Government of Belize to immediately reconsider its current approach and rebuild trust with public service employees. The organization warned that continued neglect would only unify the labor force.  Specifically, the NTUCB called on the Briceno administration to provide rightful pension payments to Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital Authority Workers Union (KHMHAWU) employees; reinstate withheld increments and implement an 8.5% salary adjustment immediately and reinstate the University of Belize’s (UB) $10 million subvention as promised.  Most notably is the NTUCB’s commitment to movement as the release concluded, stating, quote, “The NTUCB affirmed its readiness for action, stating, “We are action-ready. We are mobilized. We are united.” End of quote.