Impasse between Port and Stevedores: The View From Big Creek

And while the impasse continues between stevedores and the Port of Belize, shipments that were destined to be processed through that entry and exit point have been channeled through the Big Creek Port in Stann Creek. While that has not created any bottlenecks in the traffic at that southern facility, the impasse is creating higher freight costs and inconveniences that Minister of State, Doctor Louis Zanabeh says he hopes are soon rectified.

Dr. Louis Zabaneh, Minister of State, Education, Science, Technology, E-Governance

Dr. Louis Zabaneh

“For our government it’s very important that we try to get that resolved as early as possible because it’s affecting everybody. It’s affecting the entire country, especially the persons from lower social economic status because that’s where we see the prices of goods going up. So, the best that I can say is that I am hopeful that the discussions will yield a result that is going to be acceptable to both sides because we must have the Port of Belize functioning again.”

Marion Ali

“Can the government have meaningful input in this process?”

Dr. Louis Zabaneh

“Well the government is always there to ensure that when these things occur that we find ways for the best solutions. So it’s within our interest. As the government is very important that those parties find a resolution that will end up having the Port reopen again.”