NCL says it’s picking up support from residents of Stann Creek and Toledo

Despite strong objection from the Belize Tourism Industry Association, particularly from six of its past presidents, regarding the introduction of cruise tourism to southern Belize, Norwegian Cruise Line has been garnering support from residents of Stann Creek and Toledo districts.  Since signing a Memorandum of Understanding with the Government of Belize in mid-August, a public consultation exercise has been undertaken by representatives of the company to drum up support for the Harvest Caye development project.  Recently, they met with the Placencia Village Council to discuss the planned eco-friendly cruise destination.  Not only was the meeting cordial but NCL also reports that concerns regarding the local ecosystem, including manatee habitats, surrounding mangroves, as well as other fishing areas have been addressed.  The village council has reportedly expressed its confidence in government and Norwegian that the fragile marine and terrestrial ecosystems in the vicinity of the multimillion dollar development will continue to be protected.  A release issued by NCL states that the council also recognizes the number of jobs that will be created for Belizeans as a result of this project.  Furthermore, Norwegian has pledged that the majority of the construction and development of the destination will be handled by Belizeans.  As an incentive, the company has established a hiring program particularly for residents interested in working on its vessels in the near future.  Upon completion of the project, those employees will be prioritized for the available staff positions necessary to carry out daily operations on the island.