National Security Strategy of Belize • • • • • • 7. Transparency and openness in government financial operations, contracts and projects; Office of the Ombudsman and Contractor – General further empowered to investigate wrongdoing and negligence on the part of the Department of Public Prosecution and the Magistracy; Public officers’ asset declaration enforcement; Develop “whistleblower” legislation to allow for the prosecution of those engaged in corrupt practices in the private and public sector; Strengthen through training, understanding of the roles and responsibilities of statutory bodies, for CEOs, and the executive to create an environment of transparent, accountable and lawful decision making; Modernize the Supreme and Magistrates Courts and court systems to take advantage of efficiencies of information technology. Improve delivery of healthcare at all levels and reduce the impact of health related threats “ Strategic Concept: Providing access to modern, efficient, and affordable healthcare is the duty of the state. The physical health of the Belizean people is an indispensable element for the immediate, medium and long-term development of the country. Nationwide access to primary medical care and specialist care provide the foundation for a modern, national healthcare system. Preventable health threats such as malnutrition, obesity and endemic diseases such as malaria, diabetes and dengue lead to premature deaths and affect the productivity of the Belizean people. This may require a comprehensive review of national surveillance and vector control capacity in order to mitigate existing and emerging health threats. The country must develop a cadre of rapid responders beyond just mass casualty approaches as well as enhance its mass casualty response capacity to be in a position to manage potentially devastating pandemic health threats such as HIV/AIDS and the Avian Flu. The focus will be on wellness, preventive health services, early childhood nutrition and immunization, more and better equipped rural clinics, public health education, and the removal of GST from medical service and medications currently subject to tax. Government will need to expand support for Belize’s health care system in general including the Karl Heusner Memorial Hospital and upgrade facilities at all regional hospitals to provide all basic testing and primary care services. The preventive health care needs of every child will be addressed, and a national school feeding program will be introduced at the primary level in partnership with the private and social sectors. The Strategy 21