Lawmakers Get Days to Read Coastal Bill

With the clock ticking on Belize’s Blue Bond commitments, the Senate gave a cautious green light to Belize’s new coastal management law on Monday, agreeing to revisit key concerns before final approval.

The bill aims to improve how Belize looks after its coasts and oceans by introducing a more coordinated, modern approach that follows international best practices.

Environmental organisations and opposition senators voiced frustration over the rushed timeline and lack of feedback on their recommendations. Senator Janelle Chanona noted they received the final bill draft only days before the Senate debate despite participating in consultations for over a year.

Opposition Senator Patrick Faber called the bill’s intent “laudable” but criticised its execution. “Belize does need strong legislation to guide the sustainable use of our coastal and marine resources,” he said. “However, the way this bill has been drafted and rushed through parliament is cause for concern.”

Leader of Government Business Senator Eamon Courtenay initially defended the consultation process, stating, “Some 50 meetings have been held, 400 participants representing 15 stakeholder groups and engagement in 17 coastal communities.”

However, after a brief suspension of the session, Courtenay acknowledged the concerns. “After discussion with colleagues, it is agreed, and I want to put it on the record, that having regard to the concerns that have been raised, it is agreed that I will move the second reading of the bill, and hopefully it will be passed on the undertaking that we will have a committee of the whole Senate next week to consider the proposed amendments,” he said.

The bill, which replaces the 1998 Coastal Zone Management Act, must be passed by November 4, 2025, to meet key international milestones.