Coastal Zone forced to release 5 staff

We have reported several times on this broadcast on the dire financial straits of the Coastal Zone Management Authority and Institute. Today those problems forced the release of five staff members. Those employees, all administrative personnel, were given one month’s notice, dismissed and asked to collect their paychecks on Friday. According to CZMAI chairman, Dr. Michael Tewes, the organisation had no choice, as the shift by tour operators from Goff’s Caye–where CZMAI collects entrance fees–left a major hole in the budget. The Authority flourished for eight years under United Nation’s funding but never did prepare for future self-sustainability when the project ended. Under direct government administration CZMAI is continuing much needed conservation activities but its future is not assured. Tewes emphasised that all technical staff members have been retained and he looks forward to improved funding when new tour contracts allows for more cruise ship visitors to Goff’s Caye.