PSU Officially Declares Trade Dispute Over Impend SARA Transition

Last week, we told you about the Public Service Union’s growing concerns over the government’s plan to transition the Belize Tax Services Department into a semi-autonomous revenue authority. Well, tonight, that concern has officially escalated. The PSU isn’t just talking anymore, they’re taking action. On Wednesday, the union delivered a formal twenty-one-day notice, signaling their intent to engage in industrial action. That’s right, the countdown has begun. Today, CEO in the Ministry of Labor, Valentino Shal, confirmed that the union is moving forward with its plans to declare a trade dispute with the Government of Belize. So, what does this mean for public officers and taxpayers alike? Shal weighed in on the situation, and here’s what he had to say.

 

Valentino Shal, CEO, Ministry of Labour

“Yes, regarding the public service union and the tax service and the issue with SARA, yes. They have submitted a notice.”

 

Reporter

“Friday?”

 

Valentino Shal

“I believe so, yes. No, sorry. Yesterday, I believe it was submitted yesterday, but the submission has been made and we have received it. We’re in the process of responding, acknowledging their notice. And of course we have to internally discuss the way forward and how to help them address this matter. But yeah, we are fully aware of it. We have received a notice and we are preparing a response for them very shortly.”