Cabinet Approves Hurricane Prep Plans, Internship Program and Amnesty Extension

The Cabinet convened on Tuesday, focusing heavily on national preparedness for the upcoming 2025 Hurricane Season and approving key initiatives for national development and social welfare. The Chief Meteorologist and the Coordinator of the National Emergency Management Organization (NEMO) briefed Cabinet on hurricane season plans, including a rapid response framework utilizing local, national, and international resources. This aligns with the National Disaster Preparedness and Response Plan approved last month. In further preparation, Cabinet endorsed a media training session on May 28, hosted by NEMO, the National Meteorological Service, and the National Hydrological Service, to ensure strong partnership and early warning dissemination. The National Disaster Preparedness and Response Advisory Committee (NDPRAC) will also meet on May 29 to prepare for the season. Cabinet urged all Belizeans to complete family plans and prepare kits. In other significant decisions, Cabinet approved the creation of a Digital and IT Infrastructure Project Vetting Committee. This committee will standardize and review digital projects to align them with national strategies and mitigate risks, fostering a cohesive national digital approach. Additionally, Cabinet approved extending the Amnesty 2016 qualifying criteria to December 31, 2019, allowing individuals with documented residency in Belize up to that date to qualify. The Summer Internship Program, offering short-term employment for students from third form through junior college, received Cabinet’s full endorsement. The Ministry of the Public Service will coordinate the program, with applications due by May 30. Finally, Cabinet extended condolences to the family of Mr. Raymond Alrick Belgrave, a dedicated public officer who died in a tragic traffic accident while on official duty. Cabinet also reminded all Belizeans to drive carefully and buckle up.