Not All Labor Unions Have Position on Cannabis Bill Yet
Luke Martinez
We also got an opportunity to speak with Luke Martinez, the President of the National Trade Union Congress of Belize, following a release from the Congress in support of the call for a referendum on the cannabis bill. While the N.T.U.C.B. has taken this position, labor unions under the umbrella organization have not necessarily formed a stance yet. President Martinez sought to clarify that the N.T.U.C.B.’s position is primarily in support of reasonable consultation on the issue. Martinez says if that happens to lead to a referendum, then all the better. Here is how that conversation went.
Luke Martinez, President , N.T.U.C.B.
“When this Bill was introduced in November, the National Trade Union Congress made it position. We were steadfast on consultations, right, correct or wrong? You could go back to your clippings. And, not only on that issue, also many of the issues, the National Trade Union Congress has been imploring upon the government to conduct reasonable consultations with the body. And, when you speak to other interest groups or other social partners, they will tell you the same thing, that we are requesting and adamant about reasonable consultations that needs to happen in this country, especially when we are developing policies that will affect the future of this country.”
Reporter
“But, Minister Musa says he has done consultations with all of the Unions, and the churches and these organizations. He says that the Bill has gone through two rounds of amendments as well. You are saying this didn’t happen?”
Luke Martinez
“The National Trade Union Congress has not been consulted.”
Paul Lopez
“Is that on you though? Did you make it a priority to attend the committee meeting at the National Assembly?”
Luke Martinez
“Sometimes, and I hope you all don’t cut this right. Some time the media could be very ridiculous with their questions as though we are not Belizeans. I nuh need fih answer that question. I nuh need fih answer, but I the tell unu, we are adamant about reasonable consultations sista.”
Paul Lopez
“So what you are saying is basically that what has happened is not satisfactory.”
Luke Martinez
“You got it right. You got it right.”
