Utility Unions Stand in Solidarity with Teachers

The Belize Communications Workers Union, Belize Energy Workers Union, and Belize Water Service Workers Union, collectively known as the Utility Unions, are standing in solidarity with the Belize National Teachers’ Union (BNTU).

The Utility Unions are calling for immediate and fair resolution to the teachers’ long-standing grievances over stagnant salaries and economic inequality.

The statement added, “These actions stem from prolonged salary stagnation amidst rising inflation, and they reflect a broader systemic disparity in the treatment of workers, particularly between those employed at the lower echelons of the public service and those at the upper levels, especially in relation to salary adjustments or giving tax breaks.”

“This state of affairs contradicts the promises made to the Belizean electorate during successive political campaigns and undermines the principle of equity in governance,” the release states.

They stressed that fair compensation for educators is not only a matter of justice but also a strategic investment in Belize’s future. “Such investment not only enhances the national education system but also stimulates domestic economic activity and contributes to increased government revenue through taxation”

The unions are urging all stakeholders to return to the negotiating table and reach a fair and timely agreement.