Belize Courts Struggle with Mould Infestations

Despite renovations to its sister building, the oldest courthouse in Belize continues to face issues of rats and mould. Attorney General Anthony Sylvestre confirmed that plans are in place to refurbish the structure, similar to the work done on the adjacent building, which previously housed the Prime Minister’s and Chief Justice’s offices.

He stated that the renovation project is expected to cost approximately $2 million, a price tag that is consistent with the cost of previous renovations. Sylvestre told reporters that the previous repairs, “ran about 3 million, a little bit over 3 million… I would say in the range of 2 million” for the current one.

When asked about the recent closure of the Magistrate’s Court due to severe mould infestation. He explained that the closure would last until Monday and assured the public that a temporary facility is in place for affected individuals. “That is just a temporary facility. There is still a plan, but of course, it’s all subject to the will of the people, and if the government were to be re-elected,” he said.

Earlier this week, News 5 reported on the complaints from court staff from the Belize City Magistrate Court on Coney Drive. One employee told News 5 on Tuesday, “They have said that they’re trying to work on it, but it’s nothing so far. So, we just decide as a staff that we need to take action to make them decide what they will do now. Don’t give us no small solutions. We need a big solution to fix the problem right away.”

On Wednesday, the Belize City Magistrate Court announced its closure from midday today until Monday, February 17, 2025.

In Punta Gorda, similar mould issues are affecting the Family Court, which is expected to be addressed in the new fiscal year. “The family court issue at Punta Gorda, that is an issue that would be addressed in a new fiscal year,” Sylvestre added.