Minister Chebat Apologizes for Insensitive Remarks on Electricity Costs

Minister of Public Utilities Michel Chebat has acknowledged that he misspoke when commenting recently on the ability of Belizean households to manage increased electricity costs. Chebat’s remarks drew widespread criticism on social media, with some many describing them as insensitive to families struggling with the rising cost of living.  At an August 24 press conference, the minister pointed to the Government’s investments in free education, minimum wage increases and expanded National Health Insurance coverage. He suggested that the savings generated by those programmes could leave households with additional money to meet other expenses, including electricity bills.  Chebat now says his comments did not properly convey what he intended and acknowledges that they came across as insensitive. He says he understands the financial pressures facing Belizean families, particularly single-parent households, and did not intend to dismiss those difficulties.

Michel Chebat, Minister of Public Utilities: “So that was unfortunate. I was really addressing, my intention was really to address the overall cost of living. I mean, we know it’s a very serious issue, we know it is something that our citizens complain about. So my idea was really to address it on a whole as to the cost of living issue. Unfortunately it did not come off that way. And you know what? I must apologize because I think a lot of people were offended by the comments made. It made me look insensitive and it made the government look like if we’re not in tune with what is happening. And so I do apologize for those comments and the way it came off.”