Taiwanese Government Hands Over Well Rig Truck to Belize

Access to clean water is a cornerstone of rural development, and a water rig truck plays a crucial role in making this possible. These trucks are essential for drilling wells and providing reliable water sources in remote areas where infrastructure is often lacking. By bringing clean water to rural communities, water rig trucks help improve health, boost agricultural productivity, and support overall economic growth. They are a vital tool in the fight against poverty and a key component in building sustainable, thriving rural communities.  Earlier today, the Taiwanese government handed over a water rig truck to the Ministry of Rural Transformation.  Here’s News Five’s Isani Cayetano with the following story.

 

Isani Cayetano, Reporting

In rural Belize, access to clean and safe drinking water can be limited. Water trucks help deliver potable water to these communities, ensuring that residents have a reliable source of water for drinking, cooking, and hygiene.

 

                           Oscar Requena

Oscar Requena, Minister of Rural Transformation

“One of the sustainable development goals speaks, and that is SDG 6, speaks to ensuring that we provide clean, safe, potable water and that we improve sanitation, you know, across the world.  And in Belize, we have worked very hard, diligently over the last four years to deliver on that SDG.  Over the last four years, we have worked diligently across all of Belize.  We have drilled wells for water systems, for farmers, for institutions.  We have airlifted, we have chlorinated hundreds of wells across this country.”

 

Water is an essential resource that helps improve the quality of life and sustainability in rural communities that rely on agriculture as a primary source of income.  Wells provide a consistent and reliable source of water, which is essential for daily living.  This is especially crucial in areas where other water sources may be seasonal or unreliable.

 

Oscar Requena

“When I got to the ministry, we found two trucks that are twenty-four years old.  They work two days, three days [and] they break down for a month, one of them.   Fortunately, we have one that has been going and that has been helping us that throughout those challenges, as I’ve said earlier, we have drilled hundreds of wells across this country to serve the Belizean people.  But we were not satisfied and I said to my team, you know, we must be visionary because if we are going to lead a nation, as leaders we must be visionary, we must be goal-oriented, we must be focused and we must work hard in ensuring that we bring the goods and services to all Belizeans.”

Well rig trucks are indispensable tools in rural development, offering a range of benefits that enhance the quality of life, support economic activities, and promote sustainable development.  By providing a reliable source of water, well rig trucks help in the sustainable management of water resources.  Properly drilled wells reduce the need for surface water extraction, which can deplete natural water bodies and harm ecosystems.

 

                       Jiun-Shen Hwang

Jiun-Shen Hwang, Counselor, Taiwanese Embassy

“The well rig truck can also be deployed to reinforce water supply for agriculture, for irrigation.  We are convinced that the project will contribute to the fostering of rural development and more decent living in rural areas.  First of all, to our shared values, we commit ourselves to a stronger partnership and mutual assistance.  With this project, we reaffirm this commitment as we celebrate thirty-five years of diplomatic relations.  We take pride in collaborating in our initiatives that directly benefit the Belizean people.”

 

In times of drought or other natural disasters, well rig trucks can quickly mobilize to provide emergency water supplies.  This capability is crucial for maintaining the resilience of rural communities against environmental challenges. Isani Cayetano for News Five.

Almost 600 Children Attend Salvation Army Annual Christmas Party  

December has just started, but the Christmas celebrations are already in full swing! This morning, the Holy Redeemer Parish Hall was buzzing with excitement as the Belize Salvation Army hosted its annual children’s Christmas dinner. Nearly six hundred kids from Belize City and Hattieville gathered to play games, sing carols, enjoy a festive meal, and receive gifts to kick off the holiday season. We stopped by earlier today to soak in the joyful atmosphere. News Five’s Britney Gordon has the story.

 

Britney Gordon, Reporting

This morning, Holy Redeemer Parish Hall was alive with holiday cheer as nearly six hundred children buzzed with excitement at the annual Salvation Army Children’s Christmas Dinner. The event is all about sparking festive joy in the kids as the holiday season approaches.

 

Major Marceddy Momplaisr

Major Marceddy Momplaisr, District Officer, Salvation Army

“Salvation Army, we are here for them. Because we know Christmas is a time when we enjoy our time with the children, share their hope, and meet their needs, and transform their lives. Because there are so many of them, maybe, if they’re alone, they won’t get a gift. So today, we are so happy to be in this parish hall to receive those children to show them love, to show them respect, to show them somebody cares for them. That is what the Salvation Army does. Care for others.”

 

This heartwarming event is made possible thanks to funds raised from kettle drives, community fundraisers, and generous donations from local businesses. These contributions allow the team to spread holiday cheer by handing out gifts, serving delicious food, and providing live entertainment for the children.

 

David Vasquez

David Vasquez, Member, Salvation Army Advisor Board

“Christmas is a time of sharing and caring. In these, as times get more economically challenging, it’s always good to help support to the community. The Salvation Army itself. is an organization steeped in history. I mentioned to the kids just now that we’ve been over one hundred years, actually, one hundred and nine years in Belize. And whilst I haven’t been personally with the Salvation Army Project, when you consider all the great work that they have done, this particular function has been going on for over thirty-five years.”

 

District Officer Major Marceddy Momplaisr was most excited to see the joy light up the faces of the children as they enjoyed all the treats they had to offer them.

 

Major Marceddy Momplaisr

“We’re going to give the children food. We’re going to give them drink. We’re going to give them ice cream and we’re going to give them gifts. And I strongly believe they are waiting to enjoy themselves with the gift. And we have people as well. We’re going to sing for them, make them feel special.”

 

The main goal of the dinner is to make the children feel loved and special, perfectly aligning with the Salvation Army’s mission to spread kindness and do good.

 

David Vasquez

“When you see the smiles on the faces of the kids and see how they enjoy this. This is really a time that we give back. So all of the efforts that we raise funds through our kettle drives and donations by various members of the community, this helps to bring and spread the joy especially at this time of year.”

 

Britney Gordon for News Five.

Official Statement of Ocean Academy on Alexander Bainton’s Passing

The Ocean Academy community and the residents of Caye Caulker are mourning the tragic loss of Form Four student Alexander Bainton, who passed away this morning at 8:10 a.m. after being in the ICU since a devastating accident on November 29.

In a statement, Ocean Academy said, “Alex, known endearingly by his friends as “footy”, radiated light, love, kindness, and joy to everyone he knew. He filled every room with his bright smile and positive energy.”

The school said that Bainton was widely admired for his mentorship and the encouragement he offered to friends and family, always ready with advice for those in need. It added that Bainton excelled academically and athletically, earning a competitive scholarship to further his education.

“Words cannot express the deep sadness felt for the untimely loss of Alex, a vibrant, beacon of light. We appreciate all of the prayers and love for his family, friends, basketball team, coach, and the entire OA family and Caye Caulker community, who are grieving at this time.”

Anda de Wata Tours has also shared a statement. It said, “Alexander was more than just the youngest member of the ADW team—he was a hero in the making. With an unshakeable passion for sea life, a tireless work ethic, and a character marked by integrity and kindness, he inspired everyone around him. His dreams and dedication pointed to a bright future, and his impact on those who knew him was nothing short of extraordinary.”

The family and team at Anda de Wata Tours have expressed their gratitude for the thoughts and prayers during this incredibly painful time, as they navigate the grief of losing Alexander.

My Mechanic Stole My Car

A Belize City man wants back his dark grey and silver 2005 Mitsubishi Outlander SUV, which he alleges was stolen by a trusted mechanic. The vehicle has been missing since last week, and the owner has reported the incident to the police. He also alleges that the mechanic has a history of similar actions, including scrapping vehicles.

Police are actively searching for Germaine Gerguson, the mechanic suspected of allegedly stealing the vehicle.

According to the vehicle’s owner, a social media post on Friday night led to a tip that the SUV was spotted in Dangriga. However, the battery, radio, and keys remain missing. Authorities urge anyone with information on Gerguson’s whereabouts to contact Crime Stoppers at 922, use the P3 app, or notify the nearest police station.

 

 

Joshua Moses Ashburn Charged in Immigration Fraud Case

Joshua Moses Ashburn, a 47-year-old businessman from Belize City, has been formally charged with five counts of possessing false documents and five counts of preparation for crime. The charges stem from an investigation into the discovery of counterfeit immigration documents at his establishment, Double Zero, located on Western Avenue.

Police conducted a raid last month, uncovering a trove of illegal items, including fraudulent passports, visas, and immigration stamps, believed to be linked to unauthorised immigration operations. Also found were a 9mm Glock pistol, several bags of cannabis, and a bucket of cannabis hidden in a Dodge Ram pickup. Two other men, Keenan O’Connor, 20, and Mario Fernandez, 30, were also present at the property and detained.

Ashburn appeared in court alone but was later joined by O’Connor and Fernandez for arraignment on drug-related and firearm offenses. Ashburn attempted to plead guilty to lesser drug charges, but his plea was rejected, and all three men were remanded to Belize Central Prison until January 20, 2025.

The government called the case a serious breach of security. Commissioner of Police Chester Williams clarified that while the counterfeit immigration items found suggest a sophisticated operation, no evidence has yet linked Ashburn to any public officers within the Immigration Department.

“This individual appears to have been operating independently,” Commissioner Williams stated, adding that both the fake visas and stamps were confirmed to be inauthentic replicas. According to Williams, Ashburn’s wife suggested during an interview that the counterfeit items were provided by an Asian national. The investigation remains ongoing, with police expected to file additional charges by the week’s end.

BNTU Plans Meetings Over Delayed Teacher Salaries

The Belize National Teachers’ Union (BNTU) has announced a series of meetings to address ongoing concerns regarding delayed increments, allowances, and salary upgrades for its members.

Following an emergency meeting held by the BNTU Council of Management in Belmopan on December 3, the union leadership shared updates and a proposed way forward. Chief Education Officer Yolanda Gongora participated virtually, providing an update on the Ministry of Education’s efforts to address the backlog and outlining key challenges.

To ensure transparency and member involvement, the BNTU has scheduled two events:

  1. Virtual General Membership Meeting
    • Date: Wednesday, December 4, 2024
    • Time: 5:45 PM
    • Platform: Zoom (link to be shared via chat groups)
  2. Face-to-Face General Membership Meeting
    • Date: Thursday, December 5, 2024
    • Time: 1:00 PM
    • Venue: Simultaneous meetings across all branches (details to be provided via chat groups)

The meetings aim to provide members with insights from the Chief Education Officer, facilitate clarity through a question-and-answer session, and enable informed decision-making on future actions.

The BNTU says that the delays are unacceptable and called on its members to stand firm in demanding systemic changes to ensure timely compensation. “We must no longer be begging for what is rightfully ours. It is time for us to demand accountability,” stated the Council of Management in its memorandum.

Members are encouraged to participate actively and respectfully in the scheduled events.

Women Shine as Ocean Heroes 2024

This year’s Ocean Hero Award celebrates the remarkable contributions of two women dedicated to protecting Belize’s marine resources: Khadijah “Kaj” Assales and Linda Searle.

Ocean Hero 2024 – Khadijah “Kaj” Assales
Khadijah Assales, creator of the Kaj Expressions lionfish jewelry line, turns environmental challenges into art with a purpose. Her innovative designs incorporate lionfish fins, raising awareness of the invasive species while promoting sustainable fishing and marine conservation.

Ocean Hero 2024 – Linda Searle
Linda Searle, a marine biologist and conservationist with over 30 years of experience, is celebrated for her work in coral bleaching monitoring, scuba diving education, and rescuing stranded marine creatures. Her tireless efforts embody a deep passion for safeguarding marine ecosystems.

Both Assales and Searle exemplify how dedication and creativity can inspire positive change in marine conservation.

French Government Collapses After No-Confidence Vote

The French government has collapsed following a no-confidence vote that ousted Prime Minister Michel Barnier. The motion, which passed with overwhelming support just three months after Barnier’s appointment by President Emmanuel Macron, was prompted by opposition parties after the former Brexit negotiator used special powers to push through his budget without a parliamentary vote.

This marks the first time since 1962 that France’s government has fallen due to a no-confidence motion. The country is already facing political instability after snap elections this summer resulted in no single party holding a majority in parliament.

In the vote, MPs were required to either vote yes or abstain, with 288 votes needed for the motion to pass. A total of 331 voted in favour of the motion. Barnier is now required to submit his resignation, and the budget that triggered the crisis is effectively nullified. He is expected to remain as caretaker prime minister while Macron selects a successor.

The no-confidence motion was filed by both left-wing and far-right parties after Barnier invoked presidential decree on Monday to push through controversial social security reforms after failing to garner sufficient parliamentary support. The left-wing New Popular Front (NFP) and far-right National Rally (RN) criticised the €60bn deficit-reduction budget as unacceptable, with RN leader Marine Le Pen calling it “toxic for the French.”

Ahead of the vote, Barnier defended his policies, stating that removing him from office would not solve France’s financial issues and that difficult measures were necessary to address the country’s debt. Le Pen, however, argued that Barnier’s removal was the only solution, though she stopped short of calling for Macron’s resignation, suggesting that pressure on the president would increase if political forces and election outcomes were ignored.

Macron, who returned to France from a state visit to Saudi Arabia, is expected to address the nation on Thursday. He is not directly impacted by the vote, as presidential and parliamentary elections are separate, but he had previously stated he would not resign regardless of the outcome. The deadlock in the Assembly is likely to persist until July, as no new parliamentary elections can be held before then.

Mother Speaks Out After Son’s Tragic Death

The mother of Howard Ramirez, the young man who was shot and killed in San Ignacio, is speaking out about her son’s death.

In a heartfelt interview with News 5, she shared memories of Howard aas a kind, funny, and hard-working young man. She said that, despite what some may say, Ramirez was not a troubled child. He worked to help support his family and was well-liked by those who knew him.

“I just love my son,” she said, visibly emotional. “Why did he have to do that? Don’t shoot him in the face, only in the foot. That really hurt me. I don’t know what else they did to him. I just ask God help me come out, and make me forget but I can’t forget. It will take time.”

She also addressed the circumstances surrounding her son’s death, saying that while she understood he may have made a mistake, she believes no one is perfect. “Everybody makes mistakes. Even the rich and the poor. Nobody’s perfect,” she added.

Ramirez was shot and killed by businessman Juan Augustin Gonzalez in the Boiton Area of Cayo District. Gonzalez reported that he had found Ramirez exiting through a window of his container. Gonzalez claimed that when he tried to question Ramirez, the teen aggressively approached him with a piece of wood. Fearing for his safety, Gonzalez fired a single shot from his licensed 9mm pistol, fatally injuring Ramirez. The teen was later pronounced dead at the hospital.

Ramirez’s mother also voiced concerns about the individuals involved in the shooting. She said that there was a history of tension between her family and the people involved.

Teen’s Death Sparks Questions About Poverty, Desperation

Police Hunt for Suspects in Silkgrass Robbery

Authorities are searching for two suspects linked to a brazen robbery at a store in Silkgrass Village, Stann Creek District.

According to police, the incident occurred around midday on Wednesday, December 4. Officers were called to the scene, where they spoke with 38-year-old businesswoman Xumei Zhang. Zhang reported that two individuals entered her store, with one brandishing a firearm and holding her at gunpoint.

While she was restrained, the second suspect reportedly emptied the cash register, making off with an undisclosed amount of money.

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