Opposition Leader Shyne Barrow criticizes 400% increase in passport fees in Belize

Published by [email protected] at April 15, 2023

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Posted: Saturday, April 15, 2023. 5:44 am CST.

By Breaking Belize News Staff: Leader of the Opposition, Shyne Barrow, has slammed the Briceno Administration for implementing a 400% increase in passport application fees. Barrow held a press briefing to address this issue and the recent policy decision requiring Haitians visiting Belize to obtain a visa and Jamaicans to show proof of hotel reservations.

Prime Minister Briceno explained that the fee increase reflects the actual cost of producing high-tech electronic passports. However, Barrow argues that the increase makes it difficult for average citizens to obtain their travel documents.

“The applicant is a taxpayer! And the taxpayers are paying their taxes, and their taxes should go to making the pathways to passports, to affordable housing, to education, to affordable healthcare easier,” Barrow said.

He also expressed disappointment with the Prime Minister’s reference to Belizean citizens as “consumers” in the context of passports, arguing that every Belizean should own a passport, and the government should find ways to make the process more accessible.

Barrow claims that the 400% increase in fees disenfranchises people and reflects a disconnect with the reality faced by everyday Belizeans.

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