NTUCB Condemns Workplace Violence, Demands Immediate Government Action for Worker Safety

The National Trade Union Congress of Belize (NTUCB) has strongly condemned the recent violent attack on a security officer from the Ministry of Natural Resources, Petroleum, and Mining (MNRSPM). The NTUCB says that the attack, which occurred while the officer was on duty, represents a grave threat to the safety and rights of workers.

According to the NTUCB, such acts of violence undermine workers’ ability to perform their jobs without fear of intimidation. The NTUCB is calling on the government to take immediate and decisive action to ensure that all workers can work in a safe environment.

The NTUCB has proposed several urgent measures. Firstly, it recommends implementing a strict no-weapons policy in workplace environments to reduce the potential for violence. Secondly, the NTUCB suggests enhancing security measures across all workplaces by installing surveillance systems and employing trained security personnel to deter and respond to potential attacks. Additionally, the NTUCB calls for mandatory training for employers and employees on conflict resolution and workplace safety, alongside public awareness campaigns to educate about workers’ rights. Furthermore, the NTUCB emphasises the need for clear and accessible reporting mechanisms that allow workers to report incidents of violence or intimidation without fear of retaliation. Lastly, it advocates for strengthening legal protections to ensure that perpetrators are held accountable and that victims receive necessary support.

As we have reported, on Tuesday morning, fifty-five-year-old Lebanese who is known as Joseph was seeking services at the Lands Department in Belmopan and pulled out a firearm during a verbal altercation with an employee at the department. The man, dressed in a red T-shirt, shorts, and a hat, was heard hurling threats. He moved closer to the door and then said, “I have one too,” before drawing a firearm from his waist. Chief Executive Officer Paul Thompson informed News Five that the man had visited the department and attempted to enter the express service line. A security guard reportedly informed him that he needed to obtain a ticket to join the line due to the ticketing system in place.

The man became agitated and drew his firearm. Thompson noted that two security guards and three Special Patrol Unit officers were on duty at the time of the incident. Despite the relatively high level of security on the premises, the man left the compound without being apprehended. The Ministry of Natural Resources has since met with police department members to develop a plan for enhanced security at the Lands Department. Currently, visitors are not screened for weapons, and vehicles are allowed to park on the premises. CEO Thompson informed News Five that these issues are being addressed. Fortunately, no one was injured during the incident, although the weapon was displayed.