N.t.u.c.b. Breaks Radio Silence On Polemical Petrocaribe Loans Act

Marvin Mora

The National Trade Union Congress of Belize held a meeting late Wednesday evening to formally discuss issues concerning the recently passed Petrocaribe Act, as well as Senator Ray Davis’ decision to abstain from voting for or against the contentious piece of law.  While the N.T.U.C.B. has made it clear that it does not support the newly enacted legislation, its focus going forward is centered on transparency and accountability.  The umbrella organization played a pivotal role in the passage of the Finance and Audit Reform Act and its reticence, following the introduction of a new bill which seeks to circumvent the existing law, was of concern to many.  That radio silence was finally broken after the lengthy sit down.  President Marvin Mora addressed the media during an impromptu briefing.

Marvin Mora, President, N.T.U.C.B.

“The N.T.U.C.B. just held a general council meeting to get its directive on how to go forward with several issues that are of course at the forefront in our society, you know.  So fire away gentlemen and lady.”

Reporter

“The purpose of the meeting, we understand that of course it includes a discussion on the Petrocaribe Bill and arriving at a position on that.  Have you arrived at that position?”

Marvin Mora

“The position of the trade unions have always been clear in regards to transparency and accountability.  The trade union has been championing accountability and transparency since long, long, long before PetroCaribe showed up.  So it is no question, it should be no question in anybody’s mind where the trade union stands in regards to anything that has to do with accountability or transparency.  As far as the monies of our country our country are concerned, whether they are borrowed or whether they are monies that are coming from our internal revenues.”

Reporter

“Sir, well can you then explain the disparity as it relates to the vote and the decision to abstain taken by the senator representing the unions?”

Marvin Mora

“I wouldn’t use the word disparity because taking a position of abstention could mean several things; however, clear he did not vote in favor of it and we have already discussed that internally.  We have addressed that with him.  He had his own reasons that he gave to the congress.  The congress is still looking at that issue; however, we are clear that we do not support that bill.”