PHILIPSBURG:--- Newly appointed Minister of Public Health, Social Development and Labor Claret Connor says Sint Maarten’s proposed General Health Insurance legislation will be thoroughly reviewed and should not be advanced merely because a draft already exists.
Connor, who took the oath of office on August 5, made the commitment during his first Council of Ministers press briefing Wednesday.
“At the end of the day, it should be something that serves Sint Maarten,” Connor said. “It should have a Sint Maarten stamp on it.”
The minister was questioned about whether he would be willing to challenge or amend the existing proposal if his review determines that it is not the best model for the country.
Connor said he would consider possible improvements and upgrades before deciding how the legislation should move forward.
“If you do it right the first time, then you only have to do it once,” he said.
The minister did not provide details about the current contents of the proposed insurance law, saying he had only recently assumed office and was still reviewing the Ministry’s transition documents.
Connor explained that he remained director of the National Recovery Program Bureau during his screening process and did not begin concentrating on the ministerial portfolio until he formally entered office.
He nevertheless described the General Health Insurance process as “somewhat advanced.”
General Health Insurance is among the priority files identified during Connor’s first week. Other priority matters include the updated Social and Health Insurance ordinance, preparations for the upcoming budget debate and progress on the hospital and mental-health clinic projects.
Connor said his Cabinet had received a comprehensive transition document from the Ministry and was reviewing it to ensure continuity, accountability and effective governance across ongoing initiatives.
During his first appearance before the media, Connor also promised that information released by his Cabinet would be verified before being presented publicly.
“The information shared from this podium will be accurate, timely and carefully verified before it reaches you,” he said. “Where we do not have complete answers, we will say so rather than speculate.”
Connor also reported that Sint Maarten patients receiving medical treatment in Colombia had been accounted for and were safe following the August 10 earthquake.
He said the confirmation had been received through SZV.
Prime Minister Dr. Luc Mercelina welcomed Connor to the Council of Ministers, noting that the VSA Ministry directly affects healthcare, labor, social protection and the welfare of the country’s most vulnerable residents.
