Posted: Wednesday, April 16, 2025. 4:59 pm CST.
By Horace Palacio: The Belize National Teachers’ Union (BNTU) has issued a strongly worded press release condemning what it calls “obscene salary increases” for government officials, specifically those outlined in a recently surfaced Cabinet Secretary memo. The union expressed dismay over the timing and optics of the raises—granted to some of the country’s top public sector leaders—while teachers and public servants continue to await repayment for frozen salary increments.
The BNTU’s leadership, including President Nadia Caliz and Executive Secretary Keesha Young-Flowers, reminded the government that their members have made multiple submissions requesting compensation for increments lost during the wage freeze, yet those concerns have gone unanswered. The union emphasized that this move by the government sends a troubling message about priorities, especially at a time when economic pressure continues to mount on ordinary Belizeans.
“The union wishes to remind the Government of Belize of the submissions made regarding our frozen increments that are now long overdue for repayment,” the release stated.
In response to the revelations, the BNTU announced plans to engage its affiliate unions and begin consultations with its wider membership. These discussions will shape the union’s official stance and determine possible industrial actions or further advocacy efforts.
The timing of this press release follows growing public backlash over a memo confirming that the Cabinet Secretary’s salary has been adjusted to $96,000 annually and CEO salaries to $88,000, effective March 18. The controversy has sparked widespread concern on social media, with many questioning why such adjustments are being made while front-line educators and public workers are still waiting for compensation.
With pressure building from civil society groups and public unions alike, the government may soon be forced to respond more concretely to longstanding grievances about equity and public sector compensation.
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The post BNTU to Government: “Pay us what we’re owed before giving yourselves more” appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.
The Belize National Teachers’ Union (BNTU) has issued a strongly worded press release condemning what it calls “obscene salary increases” for government officials, specifically those outlined in a recently surfaced Cabinet Secretary memo. The union expressed dismay over the timing and optics of the raises—granted to some of the country’s top public sector leaders—while teachers and public servants continue to await repayment for frozen salary increments.
The post BNTU to Government: “Pay us what we’re owed before giving yourselves more” appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.
