KHMHA Workers Union to Launch Industrial Action Over Pension Stalemate

The Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital Authority Workers Union (KHMHAWU) has issued a strong statement over the stalled pension negotiations with the Government of Belize. The Union cites months of discussions with “little to no tangible progress.” In it’s letter to the KHMHA CEO, Chandra Nisbet Cansino, the union informed it will begin industrial action

It said that it has been left with “no choice but to take action on behalf of its members.”

The union said that the pension issue is not merely financial but a matter of “fairness, dignity, and long-term security for the healthcare professionals who have served this nation with commitment and sacrifice.” The union further criticized the government for its “refusal to engage in good-faith negotiations,” which it says “demonstrates a troubling disregard for the very individuals who uphold the country’s leading public health institution.”

As part of a phased and lawful industrial response, the union has outlined a series of escalating actions. On Thursday, May 29, 2025, KHMHA staff will begin by wearing union and “Gimme Mi Pension” T-shirts as a peaceful show of solidarity. On Friday, May 30, the union will initiate Level 1 industrial action, which includes peaceful demonstrations, a go-slow approach, and media outreach.

If no progress is achieved, the union will move to Work to Rule (Level 2) and potentially proceed to a 21-Day Strike Notice (Level 3). The release states, “These steps represent a measured and lawful progression toward protecting the rights and futures of all KHMHA staff members.”