B.D.F. Salaries to Be Adjusted Shortly

Last week, a meeting was held at the Ministry of National Defense and Border Security to discuss the salary system for Belize’s military. This has been a concern for soldiers for several years. Today, we asked Brigadier General Azariel Loria about the outcome of that meeting. He shared that steps are being taken to adjust military salaries to match those of other security services in Belize.

 

Brigadier General Azariel Loria, Commander, B.D.F.

“There were some concerns that were not addressed which encompass, primarily, the pay scale and other allowances, among other things. Rations is not a concern anymore. In previous years, it used to be, but now it’s not a concern for us. We have enough sufficient rations to…”

 

Marion Ali

“But the type of rations I think was what was the concern, what they were given.

 

Brigadier General Azariel Loria

“Yes, the type of rations and we’re addressing it. Furthermore, we’re accessing the British rations too as well. So that shouldn’t be a problem. We have the rations that should have the adequate calorie content, protein contents, carbohydrates so that they can perform his job to the best of his ability.”

 

Marion Ali

“So, what’s the update coming out of the meeting as it pertains to their salaries?

 

Brigadier General Azariel Loria

“That is something that the ministry will be prioritizing and we will know more in the coming days, but that was discussed and the priority of the minister was to tackle or adjust that head on.”

 

Marion Ali

“Were there any assurances given that it will be adjusted on par with the other security forces?

 

Brigadier General Azariel Loria

“It’ll be prioritized. We do not know, but that is what we intended to do, to ensure that it’s adjusted  and ensure that it’s fair across the board.”