Firefighters Demand Allowance Adjustments and Policy Reforms Amid Ongoing Concerns

The Public Service Union (PSU) of Belize has formally requested a series of financial and policy reforms for the Belize National Fire Service (BNFS), citing concerns over inadequate compensation, resource mismanagement, and lack of consultation on critical policy changes.

In a letter addressed to Chief Executive Officer Kennedy Carrillo of the Ministry of Blue Economy and Disaster Risk Management, PSU President Dean Flowers outlined the urgent need for allowance adjustments, financial audits, and performance appraisals to address systemic issues affecting firefighters nationwide.

The PSU’s request includes the implementation of several specialized allowances to compensate for the hazardous nature of firefighting. These include:

-Hazard Allowance for exposure to dangerous environments such as burning structures and toxic fumes.

-Danger Allowance for responding to high-risk situations, including violent incidents and industrial accidents.

-Wet and Dirty Allowance to account for unsanitary working conditions, including exposure to contaminated water and biohazards.

-EMS Allowance for firefighters who serve as first responders, often facing infectious diseases and traumatic emergencies.

Additionally, the PSU is advocating for an increase in the Housing Allowance for transferred officers, raising it from $150 to $300 per month, as per contractual agreements.

Amid allegations of fund mismanagement and missing departmental assets, including uniforms and equipment, the PSU is requesting a financial and inventory audit of the Fire Services Department. Flowers (2025) said that such an audit would promote accountability and restore trust in the department’s leadership.

The union also criticized the lack of consultation on policy decisions that impact firefighters’ earnings, particularly overtime payment structures.

Furthermore, the PSU has called for timely performance appraisals and payment of outstanding salary increments for firefighters who have already completed evaluations. Delayed payments, according to the letter, undermine morale and erode trust in the Ministry’s commitment to its workforce.

The PSU has requested a written response within 21 days and remains open to further discussions to resolve these issues. The letter was also copied to key government officials, including Prime Minister John Briceño, Fire Chief Colin Gillett, and CEO Rolando Zetina of the Ministry of the Public Service.