Zero-Tolerance Policy on Sexual Violence Amid Allegations Against Union Leader

Earlier today, the National Trade Union Congress of Belize (NTUCB) issued a statement addressing the allegations against the union leader. The organization emphasized its zero-tolerance policy for all forms of sexual violence, abuse, or misconduct. They stressed that these accusations are serious and require the utmost seriousness, empathy for both the alleged victim and the accused, and a strong commitment to justice. The NTUCB firmly supports due process and the principles of fair and impartial justice, stating that everyone is entitled to a fair investigation and the presumption of innocence until proven guilty in a court of law. This evening, we also asked the President of the Public Service Union to share his thoughts on the allegations against his union colleague.

 

Dean Flowers, President, Public Service Union

“That matter continues under investigation and I don’t  think that it would be proper for me to comment on it considering that the allegations are currently being looked into by, I’m quite sure, the union in question, as well as by the wider umbrella organization. But considering your question on the matter, I want to make it abundantly clear that the union movement, and I believe I speak on behalf of every true trade unionist, we do not condone any such acts or behavior.  I think that where the PSU is concerned, we would be the first to condemn any act of violence, in any shape or form, against women. We don’t tolerate that. However, it is also important that we recognize that the justice system presumes all individuals innocent and they must be proven guilty and you cannot pronounce somebody to be guilty simply based on the allegations of another person. We need to listen to those allegations, do the investigative work and, as I am doing today, condemn such actions or acts by men, or women, against the opposite sex.”