Cabinet agrees to form Coast Guard

With close to two hundred miles of mainland coastline, a barrier reef, three atolls and scores of cayes, patrolling the territorial waters of Belize is a near impossible task. But to at least make a start on that job cabinet today approved legislation that will establish a National Coastguard. Initially the Coastguard will consist of officers and resources transferred from existing BDF, Police, Fisheries, Fire Service, Immigration, Customs and Port Authority forces. It will gradually establish its own identity and hopefully evolve into a force with the ability to at least mount a credible effort in the fight against drug smuggling, illegal fishing and other threats to the nation’s security.