Maybe not before the end of the year - but early next year. That's when the Ministry of Foreign Affairs says the illegal Guatemalan squatters will be removed from the Santa Rosa settlement. CEO of Foreign Affairs Amalia Mai told us that construction has already started on houses for the 8 families living in Santa Rosa.
Amalia Mai, CEO - Ministry of Foreign Affairs
"As of yesterday the construction of eight houses is taking place. We expect that once this is completed, the families will be able to move to the location they are being relocated to."
Keith Swift,
Back to Guatemala?
Amalia Mai,
"Yes of course on Guatemalan territory."
Keith Swift,
Will they be gone by the end of the year?
Amalia Mai,
"We expect so. The construction has been slowed somewhat by the rains but they are working almost 24/7 right now to have the first eight houses completed and the expeditious relocation of the settlers."
Keith Swift,
Whose paying for the relocation?
Amalia Mai,
"It is a project with the OAS. They are in charge of the construction and the relocation. So pretty much they are in charge of that. But contributions are being had from a group of countries, the group of friends, but it is the OAS that is in charge of the relocation."
The Organization of American States along with friends of Guatemala and Belize are paying for the construction.
