PM Briceño Sets 2026 Agenda for Workers with NTUCB

The National Trade Union Congress of Belize (NTUCB) met with Prime Minister John Briceño on Monday, December 15, to discuss national and labour issues affecting workers across the country.

In an online statement, the NTUCB detailed the commitments made by Briceño on legislation, governance, and labour rights. “The Prime Minister committed to presenting the Occupational Safety and Health Bill for its second reading at the first session of Parliament in 2026,” NTUCB said.

He also confirmed plans for the Whistle-blowers Bill following final stakeholder review and aims to complete the redistricting process by the end of 2026.

According to NTUCB, the government plans to advance Campaign Finance Legislation, strengthen enforcement of the Civil Asset Recovery and Unexplained Wealth Act, and enhance the capacity of oversight bodies, including the Integrity Commission and the Ombudsman.

An investigation into possible non-disclosure of audited financial statements by statutory bodies will also be undertaken.

Labour issues were also addressed. “We welcome the agreement to review pending ILO Conventions and the commitment to convene a meeting with utility unions by the end of January 2026,” the NTUCB said.

In an interview on Wednesday, PM Briceño described the meeting as constructive. He said that while the government and unions approach issues from different perspectives, they were able to reach agreements. “At the end of the day, we could come to an agreement, and I do believe that they’re acting in good faith just like us,” he added.

The organisations agreed to quarterly meetings between the Office of the Prime Minister and the NTUCB, starting in March 2026, to maintain dialogue and proactively address worker concerns.