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Finally, on this topic for tonight, we asked the Chair of the National Aids Commission about a complaint from the Evangelicals that they weren't adequately consulted. You'll remember that in their press conference 2 days ago, the pastors claimed that they were ambushed with this issue and that they didn't have enough time to prepare, and adequately formulate their views.

Today, the NAC Chair categorically denied that. Here are the remarks from both sides on this dispute:

Pastor Scott Stirm - VP, NEAB "The government is very quietly moving forward with anti-discrimination legislation. We got an email concerning consultation with a consultant from Barbados at the end of November beginning of December, right as Christmas celebrations are starting and it was concerning anti-discrimination legislation that is being drafted in Belize. We find it very disingenuous that right before Christmas Holidays, where basically it's impossible to mobilize any type of information campaign that was the only consultation time for us as the church. And now, in the month of January, this goes to public consultation, and they want to take it to the house."

Hon. Laura Tucker-Longsworth - Chair, NAC
"I categorically object to that statement. We have consulted. We have our minutes to show, and we have incorporated the recommendations as far as possible, into the document. They still have an opportunity to submit. The bill is ready, and can be seen by anybody who wants to look at it, and make their submissions."

Consultations for this bill starts on Saturday in San Pedro Town. The drafters of the bill will then head to Cayo for more consultations on Sunday, and then to Belmopan on Monday. Then on Tuesday, they go to Dangriga, and on Wednesday to Punta Gorda. They'll come back to Belize City on Thursday, then Orange Walk on Friday. Finally, they will finish up the consultation process in Corozal on Saturday, January 18th.

The sessions will all take place at 6:30 p.m. on each day. They are inviting everyone to come out and participate.