Who is Footing Government’s Legal Expenses in Stake Bank Dispute?

Developer Michael Feinstein’s claim against the Government of Belize over the compulsory acquisition of about twenty-three acres on Stake Bank is set to be heard in the High Court on Thursday. The Briceño administration has defended the takeover, but Prime Minister Briceño also mentioned that the Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) is interested in buying the island to finish the tourism development project. When reporters spoke with the PM this afternoon, they asked who is paying for the high-priced lawyers representing the government.

 

Reporter

“While the acquisition doesn’t cost the taxpayers, who is paying for the legal bills for the two foreign attorneys and Magali Marin?”

 

Prime Minister John Briceño

“Well they are suing the government, they are taking the government to court for an action that we think is within our right or our ability to do as a government.  So obviously, we will have to defend our position, so then the government will have to pay for that.”

 

Reporter

“Which means that the taxpayers will pay.”

 

Prime Minister John Briceño

“Obviously.”

 

Reporter

“But if the acquisition goes through then the taxpayers are paying for an attorney for land that will eventually belong to a private [land]holder.”

 

Prime Minister John Briceño
“No. I think what you need to do is to start speaking to Mr. Feinstein because he continues to take out lawsuits for everything and we have a responsibility to defend.  If we do not put anybody and then we lose the case then what?  One: it will set a bad precedence.  Secondly: I don’t think he’s right, but he just continues to prolong.  So we have to ensure that we put the best possible minds to ensure that we do not set a precedent, that the government can make these decisions to acquire land on the national interest.”