After stevedores issue notice of potential strike action amid ongoing dispute with Port of Belize, Essential Services Arbitration Tribunal called

Published by BBNTEAM at February 13, 2025

Posted: Thursday, February 13, 2025. 4:38 pm CST.

By Aaron Humes: The Christian Workers Union (CWU), representing stevedores at the Port of Belize, has formally notified the government of its intention to engage in industrial action, as frustrations over wage growth and working conditions continue to mount. According to CWU President Leonora Flowers, the union issued a 21-day notice to the minister, initiating a process that could lead to a strike if a resolution is not achieved.

Flowers highlighted the union’s grievances, stating, “We’ve not been able to reach any significant growth in arranging an increase for the stevedores. The financial offers on the table, which include a modest increase in meal allowances and a minimal annual salary adjustment, are simply not adequate given the current cost of living.”

The concerns raised by stevedores focus on the lack of substantial wage increases, leading to mounting pressure for better compensation. In response, the government established the Essential Services Arbitration Tribunal to arbitrate between the CWU and the Port of Belize. The tribunal comprises five members: Chairman William A. Lindo and members Carlos Magana, Arturo Lizarraga, Marcello Blake (nominated by the Belize Chamber of Commerce and Industry), and Clifford Martinez (nominated by the National Trade Union Congress of Belize).

A press statement issued by the Ministry emphasizes the importance of constructive dialogue. It urges both the CWU and the Port of Belize to engage with the tribunal to achieve a fair and mutually beneficial resolution. The Ministry notes that once the matter is in the tribunal’s hands, no industrial action can be initiated until a determination is made.

With the tribunal now constituted, the focus remains on fostering communication between the involved parties to avoid any disruption at the port, which is crucial for Belize’s trade and economy. The CWU has expressed its commitment to pursuing a fair outcome for the stevedores, signalling that the conversation regarding wages and working conditions is far from over.

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