So far, they have not solidified a position on the issue

Senator Rev. Noel Leslie of the Belize Council of Churches told Amandala Thursday afternoon that he has received an invitation to attend the upcoming hearings of the Public Accounts Committee (PAC), which will be held the last Monday and Wednesday of every month, starting the week right after the September celebrations conclude.

Earlier this week, representatives of the Belize Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI) and the National Trade Union Congress of Belize (NTUCB) confirmed that they had to discuss the formulation of a joint position on the Public Accounts Committee; however, we were told that the respective groups have to consult with their membership before meeting again in a few weeks.

It appears unlikely that they will be able to meet before the first scheduled meeting of PAC is held on Monday, September 23. That’s the date set for the review of the 2003/2004 and 2004/2005 government audits.

Senator Leslie told us that he plans on attending that meeting, but he reserved comment on the Council of Church’s position on the PAC debate, indicating that they have not reached a firm position.

Meanwhile, the Chamber’s board has reportedly not yet met to discuss the proposition for a joint position by social partners.

Likewise, the NTUCB has indicated that it plans to dialogue with its membership before the social partners meet again, near the end of September.