And the high cost of fuel, and of pigtails - which went up 60% in the first part of the year - is what accounts for a huge imports bill in the first 5 months of the year. Here's more:
Ronald Orellana - Statistician
"For the period of January to May of this year, Belize imported goods valuing 1.1 Billion dollars, this was a significant growth of 44.6% or 339 million dollars as imports increased in most commodities categories when compared to imports of the same period of last year. The mineral fuels and lubricants more than doubled, increasing from 86.2 million dollars to 178.4 million due to higher world market prices combined with increased quantities of fuel. Total domestic exports for January to May of this year amounted to 192 million dollars, up 11.7% or 20.1 million dollars when compared to exports of the same period last year."
Welcoming Intake No. 96
And turning back now to our interview with the Minister of Home affairs we asked him about the department's best hopes for Police Recruit Squad No. 96. The Department is looking for a few good men and women who'll take their entrance exam on July 9th.
The Minister was optimistic and told us that the new intake requirements including a high school diploma and a mandatory mental evaluation give Belize a chance at 150 of the best officers ever produced.
Remembering Radiance...
And, as close tonight, we note the passing of one of Belize's finest and most iconic voices, Radiance Thompson.
The prized vocalist died at her home at 5575 Moguel street in Kings Park today at the age of 62.
Her niece tells us that Thompson had no long term illnesses that she knew of, and added that her cause of the death is currently unknown but the family should know more after the autopsy.
Thompson leaves behind 1 son and one grand-child, and the legacy of a vocal range and delivery that seemed heaven sent.
We close tonight a song she turned into a Belizean standard, "My Homeland By The Sea". We have this recording from Open Learning TV. Radiance Thompson, dead at 62, but her voice lives on...
Goodnight and join us back here tomorrow...
