Tomorrow, government is expected to take a raft of Immigration Reform measures to the National Assembly. One of the main features of the new law will be increased independent oversight of the nationality process. The social partners have been asked to provide that oversight, and today the National Trade Union Congress of Belize issued a statement saying it "welcomes the opportunity to be part of the National Scrutinizing Committee." But, it's not that simple! The Union adds that before it agrees to be on the Committee it must first get full disclosure of the legislation and terms of reference. In the meantime, they say they'll continue to monitor the evolution of the Scrutinizing Committee.
The Chamber of Commerce has also been invited to be on the Committee and this evening that group sent out a statement saying quote, "it must be a part of the transparency and accountability process…." But, again, not so fast; the Chamber agrees to participate only after it has reviewed the proposed amendment to the Immigration Legislation along with the Terms of Reference for the committee.
Interestingly, the Chamber wants full disclosure of past irregularities, quote, "to allow for the implementation of adequate control systems…to deter future infractions" end quote.
The chamber also wants application notices be published in the paper and the Government Gazette.
