Tonight there are rumblings from two trade union groups. First are the utility unions - who are scarcely heard from. That's the Belize Communication Workers Union, the Belize Energy Workers Union, and the Belize Water Services Workers Union.
Their joint release says they, quote, "express grave concern over the ongoing circumstances compelling members of the BNTU to resort to public demonstrations in pursuit of long-overdue justice. These actions stem from prolonged salary stagnation amidst rising inflation..."
"This state of affairs contradicts the promises made to the Belizean electorate during successive political campaigns and undermines the principle of equity in governance.
"We call upon all parties to immediately resume negotiations in good faith and to conclude an equitable agreement without further delay." End quote.
And, the NTUCB in its release says, quote, "It is both unconscionable and morally bankrupt that while public officers and educators plead for long-overdue salary adjustments and the unfreezing of increments, this administration sees it fit to reward a select few with bloated contracts and unjustifiable salary hikes, most notably for Chief Executive Officers and the Cabinet Secretary...The NTUCB demands accountability! Contracts of this magnitude should never be signed in secrecy or without proper vetting to ensure service for cost."
The close by saying, quote, "We are action-ready. We are mobilized. We are united."
