Minister wants archaeological land back in Govt hands

Last night we reported on the piece of land marked for sale in the San Pablo area of San Pedro Town. The land which was originally used as a park and there were plans for it to be converted into an archaeological site, but somehow it ended up in private hands. And this has raised concern among residents of the area. As we reported, when we called the contact number on the “For Sale” sign, a Roland Thompson confirmed he was selling the land. However he did not divulge any further details of how he came in possession of the valuable piece of land. Late this evening we contacted Area Representative, Manuel Heredia, who told us he was trying to have the property reverted to government land.

Voice of Manuel Heredia, Minister of Tourism
“It was designated at the time when Sunset Coves was in charge of the lands in San Pablo, I spoke with one of the directors at the time and they said that they did leave it as a reserve and as far as I can recall, there were even picnic tables and chairs over there around the area.”

Marion Ali
“Can you tell us Sir, how this park ended up in private hands?”

Voice of Manuel Heredia
“That is where the tricky thing comes up because in reality, all the while I was thinking that its still a reserve or still left as a park. But recently when I passed over there I saw a “For Sale” and a number over there noh. I asked my driver to call that number and one Mr. Thompson from Belize City claims to be the owner of that particular area. And that is as far as property-wise that I got to know; that one Mr. Thompson owns the place. I have been trying, along with San Pedro Sun and Ambergris Today, to try to get to the bottom of this thing but I have not really gotten to the bottom of it as to who sold it to Mr. Thompson and to see if we can clear it up because, personally I believe that is should have remained as a park or a reserve and definitely once I get the pertinent information I will bring it up to Cabinet to see if can acquire that—bring it back to the community because definitely that should not have been sold.”

Marion Ali
“But don’t you have a lots committee, aren’t there procedures that one must follow?”

Voice of Manuel Heredia
“Yes, if it’s government but if it’s for DFC then the board of directors decide. But I don’t see how that could have been sold if it was left as a reserve but I have seen that happen already right.”

Minister Heredia says he will take the matter to Cabinet in order to revert it back to public land.