Independent Attorney

National Assembly of Belize

Office of the Clerk

Independent Attorney

Background:

The Senate Special Select Committee, which was appointed by the Honorable Senate on Monday, July 10th 2023, to investigate all documents, communications and processes tied to the signing of the document titled, “Definative Agreement by and between the Government of Belize and Portico Enterprises Limited (DBA) the Port of Magical Belize”, dated October 1st 2020 and to investigate all documents, communications and processes that resulted in the document titled “Definative agreement by and between the Government of Belize and Portico Enterprises Limited (DBA), the Port of Magical Belize” dated October 1st 2020 being presented to Cabinet (accompanied by draft legislation) as attachments to Cabinet Confidential Memo No. 84 of 2023, dated May 15th 2023, hereby invites licensed attorneys to apply to assist to the Committee with its mandate.

Duties and Responsibilities:

  1. Review key documents, communications and processes tied to the signing of the “Definative Agreement” dated October 1st, 2020 as well as Cabinet Confidential Memo 84 of 2023 along with its recommendations and draft legislation;
  2. Assist and advise the Senate Special Select Committee (SSSC) in determining what documentation, information, advice, policy or basis was used to prepare the Cabinet Confidential Memo 84 of 2023 along with its recommendations and draft legislation;
  3. Assist the SSSC in determine whether, consequent on the investigation and inquiry, statutory and other procedures were complied with;
  4. Identify areas of possible illegality and improper procedures;
  5. Assist the SSSC in examining all pertinent communications and documentation, papers and records that the Committee shall deem relevant to the inquiry; 
  6. READ TOR

Submission:

We ask that attorneys review these terms of reference and indicate to the Special Senate Select Committee of interest in being considered for this engagement by forwarding a letter of interest, inclusive of fees that will be charged to meet the requirements listed in the terms of reference, to the Clerk of the National Assembly by 8am on Tuesday, September 12th, 2023. Please note that attorneys will be asked to declare whether there exists any previous or live conflict(s) of interest that would preclude impartiality of their advice and assistance to the Committee.