Negotiations between the Joint Unions Negotiating Team (JUNT) and the Government of Belize resumed today in Belize City, as tensions mount over salary adjustments and wage demands. At the heart of the deadlock is the unions’ demand for an 8.5% salary adjustment and the reinstatement of two frozen increments, key issues for public officers, teachers, and managers represented by JUNT.
The latest round of talks is taking place at the ITVET compound, with government representatives opting to present their third proposal orally, rather than in writing.
This move has raised eyebrows among union leaders who have expressed growing frustration over the lack of meaningful progress.
Senior government officials present at the meeting include Minister of the Public Service Henry Charles Usher, Minister of Education Oscar Requeña, and Deputy Prime Minister Cordel Hyde. Representing the unions were BNTU President Nadia Caliz, PSU President Dean Flowers, and APSSM President Sharon Fraser, alongside other executive members.
While discussions remained behind closed doors, the outcome of this session could prove critical. The Joint Unions have already signaled their growing impatience, planning a major public demonstration for this Saturday to pressure the government into meeting their demands.
The 8.5% adjustment has long been a flashpoint between the unions and the government. Initially cut during the pandemic as part of austerity measures, the unions argue that restoration is long overdue and essential amid rising living costs. Meanwhile, the government maintains it must balance wage adjustments against fiscal sustainability.