Funds approved for street work

Infrastructure improvements and boosting the economies of the Stann Creek and Toledo Districts were the focus of discussion at this week’s Cabinet meeting in Belmopan on Tuesday. Cabinet agreed to provide two million dollars for street resurfacing and construction in towns all over the country. San Ignacio, Orange Walk and Belmopan will get three hundred thousand dollars each for the work while Corozal and Dangriga each get two hundred fifty thousand. Benque, Punta Gorda and San Pedro, Ambergris Caye have each been allocated two hundred thousand dollars. A plan to stimulate economic and social development in the southern districts was also approved. It is intended to complement the upgrading of the Southern Highway and promote better use of natural resources and enhance agricultural performance. The plan recognizes the expansion of aquaculture, tourism and other services. The draft, prepared by the Environmental and Social Technical Assistance Project, ESTAP, was partially funded by the Interamerican Development Bank and was developed in collaboration with the government and citizens of the area. The Toledo Development Corporation will be established to implement the regional plan. The Social Security Board also informed Cabinet that they will carry out a review to ensure everyone living in Belize is issued a Social Security card. The exercise is to prepare for the introduction of the National Health Insurance scheme next year.