And while the diplomats will discuss these issues at the highest level next week - one area representative today offered a valuable perspective from the ground.
Oscar Requena the PUP rep from Toledo West told us that Guatemalan incursions into Belize are having a taxing effect in two communities within his division.
Here's how he explained it:...
Hon. Oscar Requena
"I want to highlight communities that it directly affects in my constituency; the community of San Jose, the community of Nalum Cah. In October 2010 to be specific Mr. Speaker we had the Alcalde of San Jose Mr. Emileano Cho along with Mr. Alfredo Sho who were actually shot at by Guatemalans in the Edward Central area of the Columbia Forest Reserve. The people of San Jose are concern that their security is under threat. They have lost over 6 horses and this can be investigated, I am not making this up. This can be investigated. The people of Nalum Cah, the people of San Jose have actually loss their horses to the Guatemalans coming in. This is a serious concern Mr. Speaker. I believe and I am certain that Belizeans expect that there is going to be a greater concerted effort and ensuring that our national patrimony is protected."
"One of the greatest concerns that people have is that - we are protecting these reserves; the Columbia Forest Reserve , the Bladen Nature Reserve and others but yet when out people want a permit to be able to go in there and access these resources they are denied, but yet the Guatemalans can come in and abuse our natural resources Mr. Speaker."
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