Going back to Friday's Labour Day Rally, the Minister of Labor, Kareem Musa, was the keynote speaker, giving his speech after all the presidents of the various unions. He began by acknowledging their plights and spoke about the history of workers' rights. He also explained the progress of the labor department. Here is a snippet of his speech.
Kareem Musa, Minister of Labor
"I am pleased to report that the comprehensive review of our quite ancient labor act is now underway. This process updates the law to reflect present realities, strengthen enforcement, improve dispute resolution and address issues such as migrant labor, child labor, and evolving employment arrangements. The goal remains a framework which is clear, balanced, and practical for both workers and employers. Belize is also advancing the decent work country program for the period 2024-2029 in partnership with the international labor organization and national stakeholders. This program supports labor institutions, encourages dialogue among government, employers, and workers and expands access to decent work across the country. Workplace safety, as brother Luke said, we have to rush the OSH, I know we had a hold back in the Senate this past week, but I am confident that those are issues we can resolve quickly because at the end of the day, we have to protect our workers and ensure that they are safe. But I want to acknowledge the work of the unions here. It is because of you and pushing the OSH bill 2025, why that bill has now become an act, or will soon become an act so congratulations and thank you for your hard work on that."
PSU President Flowers pointed out that the labor commissioner and the CEO were notably absent.
