UB Faculty and Staff Union Raises Concerns Over Government’s Land Purchase for Tertiary-Level Hospital

The University of Belize Faculty and Staff Union (UBFSU) has voiced its discontent with the Government of Belize’s decision to purchase a parcel of land for $6.9 million from a private landowner to develop a tertiary-level hospital. The UBFSU highlighted that this decision deviates from the original plan to construct the hospital on the University of Belize’s Belmopan campus, as outlined in the loan motion’s recitals. The union expressed disappointment that the change was made without meaningful consultation with key stakeholders, including their organisation.

The UBFSU criticised the government’s move, stating that it undermines principles of good governance and raises concerns about transparency and accountability in managing public funds. The union emphasised the importance of establishing a tertiary-level hospital for the nation’s healthcare system but stressed that the project should be approached with thoughtfulness and collaboration.

The UBFSU believes that the land owned by the University of Belize, as initially proposed, would successfully meet all required environmental assessments and receive approval from qualified, objective building engineers for cost-effectiveness and suitability. The union also called for the active involvement of UB’s qualified medical personnel in every stage of the hospital’s development, from construction to operational use.

In light of these concerns, the UBFSU urges the Board to call on the Government to reconsider its decision and proceed with constructing the tertiary-level hospital on the University campus, signaling a commitment to public education and future generations of Belizeans.