Social Partner Senators Show Rare Unity

Mark Lizarraga

In an unprecedented move, six of the non-government parliamentarians, including church senator Ashley Rocke, sided with Senator Eamon Courtenay on Wednesday when a call was made to bring the Financial Secretary before the upper house.  While the People’s United Party is devising a plan of action, business senator Mark Lizarraga has turned in a report to the Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

Mark Lizarraga, Business Senator

“Senator Courtenay was the one raised the suggestion in his presentation and it was a matter that I fully endorsed and I am happy to say that all non-government senators supported for accountability and transparency.  All non-government senators supported the call to bring in the Financial Secretary, to give explanations and to provide us with answers to those questions that, lingering questions that we have had.  And so, I congratulate all the senators, the non-government senators that stood together in this cause to make it possible because I think that the Belizean people are screaming for it.  I think that the Belizean people have sent us there to the upper house to be that check and balance.  So I am very happy and very proud that we all stood together to call for some explanations as to how the people’s monies are being spent.”

Isani Cayetano

“Now you mentioned that there are specific penalties for contravention of this law.  The People’s United Party waiting to formulate its own position based on whatever other documentation will be presented in the days ahead.  Where do you guys stand insofar as perhaps the business community?  Are you prepared to see that these people be brought to answer for contravening the Finance and Audit Reform Act?”

Mark Lizarraga

“Well I have submitted a report to the community that I represent and that is a matter for them.”