Firefighters Request Allowance Adjustments, Audits, and Appraisals

Today, fire stations across Belize City were pretty much deserted as firefighters staged a sickout. Except for a few administrative staff, firefighters from several stations on both the north and south sides called in sick, clearly showing their frustration with their working conditions. Recently, many firefighters voiced their concerns about low wages, outdated equipment, and unpaid overtime. But that’s not all. In a letter to Kennedy Carrillo, the C.E.O. of the Ministry of Blue Economy and Disaster Risk Management, the Public Service Union formally requested adjustments to allowances, audits, performance appraisals, and policy consultations. They are calling for special allowances like hazard and danger pay. The letter also demands a financial and inventory audit due to allegations of fund mismanagement and missing assets. The union expects a written response within the next twenty-one days.