In the meantime there are two major developments: first Port workers have had their full pay reinstated without the 10% deduction effective today, and sources tell us attorneys from both sides - the Union and the Management are having preliminary discussions.

But the standoff remains and hard words are being thrown via press release.

The Port struck first last night, with a lengthy release saying "Port of Belize Limited (PBL) deals in facts and operates within the Laws of Belize. Unfortunately, some elected officials, union leaders and some members of the public have bought into the false narratives spread by Mr. Mose Hyde, the President of the Christian Workers Union (CWU) and his team. The CWU does not negotiate; it threatens. It does not discuss; it bullies."

The release alleges a long list of violations of good faith by the CWU, saying it has refused to meet on many occasions to discuss the collective bargaining agreement. And, for good measure, the Port shows in there, gratuitously, Stevedores earn an average of $38,216 per year for an average of 38 days of work.

Well, the CWU struck back late this evening with a press release titled, "PBL the best lies money can buy". It says the Christian Workers Union (CWU) notes and rejects the inflammatory and untruthful release put out earlier today by Port of Belize Ltd.