Church and Business Senators Back Migrant Pact

Political circles are buzzing and not in a good way. Business Senator Kevin Herrera has left observers and even fellow parliamentarians scratching their heads after his unexpected vote in favor of the Safe Third Country Agreement with the United States. Now, if you’re wondering what that means, here’s the gist: a ‘safe third country’ is one that’s not the asylum seeker’s home, and not the country they’re trying to settle in, but is considered safe enough for them to be sent there to seek protection. Under this agreement, Belize will now accept Central American migrants who were turned away under President Trump’s immigration crackdown. Two social partner senators backed the government on this; Church Senator Louis Wade stood firm in his support. But it’s Herrera’s sudden shift that has everyone talking. What changed his mind? Why now? Those are the questions echoing through the halls of power.

 

Louis Wade, Church Senator

“I’m not here to play politics or games but to tell the nation that there are certain agreements that are acceptable by logic, with heart. That this agreement will allow up to ten per year, I three up my arms and I said I believe the people of Belize can accept this. The church certainly does.”

 

Kevin Herrera, Business Senator

“When we are pressured to become a logistical backwater for their immigration challenges even though we have a comparable challenge or a larger challenge that clearly shows the old assumption that our security and social welfare are secondary. We are not merely a convenient holding cell for the U.S. asylum system. We are a sovereign nation.”

 

Clarita Pech, National Assembly Clerk

“Senator Kevin Herrera.”

 

Kevin Herrera

“Aye.”

 

Clarita Pech

“Senator Reverend Louis Wade Jr.”

Louis Wade

 “Aye.”