The joint unions have been busy this week with an agenda full of protests. Yesterday, they proceeded to block the highways leading to Belize City, and other roads across the country.
Well today, in Dangriga, both they BNTU and the PSU picketed in front of gas stations. But that's not all - the PSU members here in Belize City also took part in a brief lunchtime protest in downtown Belize City.
Courtney Menzies has this story.
The protests continue and today, members of the PSU and the BNTU were seen picketing in front of gas stations in Dangriga.
But the PSU took is a bit further by using their lunch break to "take over" downtown Belize City. They held their Bristol board signs high as they marched down Albert Street before gathering at Battlefield Park.
And while the numbers were low, the chairlady of the PSU's Belize City Branch said that was expected, and that their message is still being heard loud and clear.
Gayle Garcia, Chairlady, Belize City Branch, PSU
"I have not done an exact count but I would say at least a little fifty, more or less out here this afternoon."
Reporter:
"Did you expect more?"
Gayle Garcia, Chairlady, Belize City Branch, PSU
"Considering it's the 12 and 1, not really. The message being sent is that we don't support government's proposal for 10% salary cut and increment freeze for 3 years."
"Our intended audience is the general public and the government. In this activity this afternoon, and yes we're doing this jointly, each union coming together sending the government a loud message that we're not supporting the pay cut."
And Garcia said these members came out despite some being victimized at their workplaces.
Gayle Garcia, Chairlady, Belize City Branch, PSU
"Some are experiencing some victimization yes like some are not being able allowed to wear their yellow shirts at work, transfers as punitive measures, and other victimization, yes."
And regardless of the threat of further victimization, the members showed their solidarity as their yellow shirts lit up downtown Belize City during its lunchtime rush, saying they fully support their leadership.
Gayle Garcia, Chairlady, Belize City Branch, PSU
"150%."
Reporter:
"Until the government backs down."
Gayle Garcia, Chairlady, Belize City Branch, PSU
"150%! And that's it, thank you."
