And while the cane crop started a week late, and the dispute remains unresolved…in his New Year's message, the Prime Minister is calling it a success.
The 9 minute message sees the PM taking a victory lap on the economy, unemployment rates, and reducing the debt stock.
But, before that, he took a bow on the sugar industry:
Hon. John Briceno, Prime Minister
"Stakeholders in the all-important sugar sector bridge their differences so that we expect a bumper crop in both volume and price. To make this happen my administration expanded our fuel and road repair subsidies, supported improving crop yields as a priority and in a major first, will facilitate substantial fertilizers support to farmers, thanks to the government of Morocco."
And while that particular round of self congratulation was a little bit wobbly, the PM hit full stride when he spoke about the economy:
Hon. John Briceno, Prime Minister
"The near miraculous economic rebound of the last 2 years has pushed down unemployment to historic lows, with poverty rates finally falling in tandem. And these important measures will continue to move in the right direction as we intensify our focus on policies and programs that unlock chances for upward mobility. Our efforts at debt reduction has reduced the national debt by over one billion dollars. Our debt to GDP ratio went from 133% under the UDP to 66%, a remarkable accomplishment to say the least."
"And now in 2023, these steps and strides will become leaps forward as the twin propellants of tourism and agriculture elevate the quality of life yet higher."
"I am particularly proud to highlight that 2023 will bring more money into the pockets of some 30,000 Belizean workers who are poised to enjoy a minimum wage of $5 per hour at the start of the new year. This $5 per hour is a 50% increase for one in every six of the lowest paid workers in our country earn by the employees work, not gifted by the employer, the individual empowerment conferred by a living wage is a foremost responsibility of the state and the foundation of social justice."
