Dear Editor,
The quality of our day is directly linked to the decision we make, not just on the day of, but the day prior. So goes for the quality of life on our island. It’s a reflection of past and present decisions. This is important to understand, as it may often be believed that only money is required to fix our lives or improve the island.
Bad roads, strained health infrastructure, troubled youths? Add more funds to the budget! While any extra money can be helpful, examining the decision-making process, the environment in which decisions are made, and the capabilities or limitations of the decision maker can lead to solutions that improve the quality of life for all. Our objective should be to improve our decision-making, from ideation to implementation.
For example, you’ve probably heard discussions in public about gambling on St. Maarten. While this may appear to be a non-taxpayer issue, it boils down to the government’s responsibility to protect the public and ensure benefits for all. There are questions we can ask, such as, “What is the government doing to promote responsible gambling?” “What programs, if any, are being funded by the revenue collected?”, “Is the government enforcing laws to ensure compliance?” and “Who is held to account for reforms?”
There are more questions one can ask and answer. The intent, however, is to check whether the relevant public service officials are fulfilling their mandate to the best of their ability. Our audits provide perspectives on how government operations can improve and serve as potent reminders of the need for compliance and efficiency.
In such cases, money alone won’t wipe away the woes. It will include new processes, stronger oversight, engagement with parties involved, and the execution of recommendations by professionals and stakeholders.
Regarding the General Audit Chamber, we expect to review how the government used taxpayer funds, checking that they are used legally and efficiently. When we audit, we also consider the taxpayer's benefit and verify whether the value for your money is delivered. Our reports are tools for the Government, Parliament, and the general public that provide insight into opportunities to improve the quality of life on St. Maarten.
Name Withheld upon Request.
