~"York continues his quest for documents from government"~

PHILIPSBURG:--- Member of Parliament (MP) Darryl York posed a focused and detailed series of questions during the Second Draft 2025 Budget Debate, calling for accountability and urgent action across key ministries. From fiscal policies to renewable energy and hurricane preparedness, MP York honed in on a range of practical concerns, emphasizing the need for transparent governance and effective, timely interventions.

Ministry of Finance: Budget Implementation and Vendor Relief

MP York scrutinized revenue collection across industries, including pensioners, hotels, casinos, lotteries, and grocery stores. He raised the issue of erfpacht (land lease fees), asking whether these fall under permits or taxation classifications. Highlighting lingering questions about the Soul Beach Festival, he demanded a full report on the results and findings and requested access to all government advice related to the event.

MP York also pointed to revenue accountability, requesting details surrounding multi-year income added to the budget, as well as clarifications about associated costs. He sought transparency on whether funds had been successfully transferred to subsidized school boards, raising concerns about potential errors or gaps in execution. Addressing the impact of economic strain, York raised the question of relief initiatives for vendors, challenging whether such responsibilities lie with TEATT or the Ministry of Finance.

General Affairs and Governance Questions

Turning to employment transparency, York requested a full list of the 30 positions reportedly filled under the Ministry of General Affairs, including recruitment start dates and categorization according to ministries. He raised critical points about public sector procedures, questioning whether, upon completion of an investigation, findings must be disclosed to individuals who were suspended during the process.

On public procurement, York demanded clarity on the application of tender and procurement laws. He aimed to uncover inefficiencies that could undermine government transactions. Lastly, he requested a comprehensive account of staffing changes at the Department of Foreign Affairs from the Minister’s arrival to the present, citing a need to monitor workforce sustainability and capacity.

Renewable Energy Policies and Implementation

Highlighting the growing importance of renewable energy solutions, MP York asked about regulatory frameworks governing solar energy. He raised concerns about the permitting process, questioning whether clear standards for solar panel installations exist and how safety compliance is enforced. Specific inquiries included the current number of certified solar installation companies on the island and the legal obligations for reporting installations to GEBE. He also pushed for details about subsidy programs and their accessibility for households interested in adopting solar energy.

MP York demanded clarity on procedural hurdles for connecting surplus electricity to the national grid. Further, he questioned liability in cases of fire resulting from faulty solar installations, emphasizing the need for enforceable safety standards to protect consumers and their property.

VROMI and Infrastructure Challenges

MP York raised numerous concerns regarding inefficiencies within infrastructure projects, particularly storm preparedness and landfill management. He questioned whether the stormwater pumps on the island are operational, their capacity, and when the long-delayed installations will be completed. Noting potential disaster risks, he asked if a government calamity fund exists to provide basic relief, including food, water, and rebuilding materials, to residents.

He further questioned Sint Maarten's readiness to manage hurricane debris, given the delays in reprofiling the main landfill and clearing the Irma landfill. Additionally, he advocated for food storage oversight to protect against price gouging by suppliers during disasters.

His inquiries extended to road maintenance projects, where he requested an account of road resurfacing expenditures, remaining funds, and spending on road markings. He also asked for documentation of height surveys and mix designs for critical roads like Sucker Garden Road, Pondfill, and LB Scott Road, pressing for an explanation of what differentiates the Minister's approach from previous administrations. York also sought updates on side road projects, the crackdown on illegal garages, and status reports on removal orders.

Flood Mitigation and Zoning Reforms

Recognizing risks tied to climate change and increased urbanization, MP York demanded updates on plans to address flood-prone areas, particularly in South Reward, Mary Fancy, and Ebenezer. He asked how VROMI intends to improve drainage systems. On zoning, he requested the memorandum of principles, the preliminary draft zoning plan, stakeholder analysis findings, and details regarding public consultations. He asked for a summary of any public feedback received and sought assurances that the department's communication and implementation strategies are on track.

Ministry of Justice and Correctional Reforms

Concerns over prison overcrowding dominated York’s justice-related questions. He pressed the Minister for an update on the number of inmates awaiting their sentences. He asked whether proposals, such as inmate reduction and electronic monitoring, would be taken seriously to address overcrowding issues.

York probed deeply into resource allocation, requesting figures on the daily costs of inmate maintenance and projections for operational costs at the proposed new prison. Additionally, he asked about the funding earmarked for inmate rehabilitation initiatives, challenging the Ministry to prioritize programs that prepare individuals for societal reintegration.

Calls for Strategic Focus in Education and Sports

On youth development, York requested updates on the Business Outreach and Placement (BOP) program, seeking to expand its reach and provide more young people with vital internship opportunities. He also questioned timelines and funding for the upgrade and maintenance of sports facilities, particularly the LB Scott Sports Auditorium.

TEATT Accountability for Vendor Compensation

Focusing on the Philipsburg Marketplace project, York demanded timelines for soil testing, tendering, and project completion. He pressed for details on vendor compensation for financial losses resulting from project delays, inquiring whether Finance or TEATT would assume responsibility. Additionally, he challenged the Ministry over transparency in sponsorship and funding for major events like Carnival, Regatta, and Soul Beach.

Closing Insight

York’s focused questioning demonstrated his commitment to elevating oversight in governance and ensuring actionable outcomes from the 2025 budget. He called on the government to implement practical, transparent procedures that address both immediate challenges and long-term development needs.

"The people of Sint Maarten deserve better clarity and accountability," York remarked in closing. "Every project and every policy must reflect our shared commitment to sustainable progress and fairness for all citizens."

 PHILIPSBURG:---  During the Central Committee Meeting on the Second Draft Budget Debate 2025, Member of Parliament Egbert J. Doran raised pointed questions and pressing concerns regarding Sint Maarten’s governance, fiscal accountability, and development priorities. His line of questioning aimed to uncover gaps in ministerial planning and execution while advocating for greater transparency, efficiency, and equity across critical sectors.

Budget 2025 Concerns

MP Doran began with sharp inquiries directed at the Ministry of Finance, questioning whether the Minister fully stands behind Budget 2025 2.0 and what due diligence mechanisms have been implemented to prevent the errors that necessitated the budget revision. Asking for assurances, he emphasized the need for a commitment to robust financial forecasting.

MP Doran sought clarity on whether the budget remains on track at the halfway point of the fiscal year. Using the first-quarter actuals as a baseline, he asked if the nation still anticipates a surplus or deficit and demanded a candid acknowledgment of any deviations from the initial projections.

The MP also sought feedback from the Council of Advice on the budget amendments and inquired about the systemic safeguards in place to ensure accountability in amendment handling. Specifically, he called for clarity on the role of SOAB and a timeline for their work in establishing more efficient budgetary processes.

A controversial focus was placed on income disparity, with Doran pressing the Minister of Finance for views on potential salary cuts for Ministers and Members of Parliament by 10%, 25%, or even 50%. He requested impact analyses to assess the savings that such measures could generate.

Program Delays and Q1 Underperformance

Turning his attention to the delayed ratification of the budget, Doran demanded answers on how backlogs in funding have impacted ministerial programs and national projects. He argued for transparency in addressing execution bottlenecks caused by these delays. He challenged the Ministry to explain how recalculation errors with Article 2 adjustments occurred and whether such oversights had precedent in previous administrations.

Additionally, he sought details on overperforming and underperforming sectors in Q1 and their implications for future performance.

Economic Oversight of Public Funding

MP Doran probed the Ministry of Finance on its management of public funds, seeking clarity on how the Carnival 2025 subsidy was financed amid delays in the 2025 budget’s ratification. He questioned the legality of these disbursements and whether such decisions would set a precedent for other outstanding obligations, such as back pay for justice workers.

Furthermore, Doran scrutinized the economic impact of high-profile events, such as the Soul Beach Festival, questioning whether they met their expected $3 million in activity generation and whether government coffers benefited directly. He also asked how funding and metrics for the event were justified, particularly amid allegations of inequitable profit-sharing burdens placed on local businesses.

Hurricane and Emergency Preparedness

On national readiness, Doran quizzed the Ministry of General Affairs on measures taken since May’s hurricane preparedness meeting led by the Prime Minister. He asked whether shelters had been inspected and certified, whether staff were trained in operations, and whether emergency supplies were stocked.

Recognizing the struggles of vulnerable families, Doran emphasized the importance of supporting low-income households in preparing emergency kits or fortifying their homes. He also questioned whether the shelter pre-registration program, initiated during his tenure as Minister of VROMI, had been maintained or expanded.

The MP inquired about the operational readiness of recently acquired fire trucks, ambulances, and emergency vehicles, challenging the Ministry to maintain full transparency on procurement, including bidders, costs, and equipment capacity.

Justice Ministry Under Scrutiny

Addressing critical issues in the justice sector, Doran questioned the sufficiency of Budget 2025 in addressing emergency situations and daily challenges within the correctional system. He spotlighted longstanding concerns about chronic understaffing, unsafe prison conditions, and the lack of funding for immediate repairs, safety upgrades, and welfare initiatives for both inmates and staff.

Highlighting the dire conditions at Pointe Blanche Prison following a fire, Doran pushed for short-term solutions to improve infrastructure while construction of a new correctional facility remains stalled. He demanded disclosures on the financial and logistical handling of inmate relocations to temporary facilities and questioned whether provisions exist for similar emergencies in the future.

The MP also raised the issue of inadequate insurance coverage for prison guards, police officers, and justice system employees. He called on the Ministry to urgently secure comprehensive life and injury insurance for frontline workers.

Environmental Policy and Infrastructure Development

MP Doran pressed the Ministry of VROMI for updates on infrastructure and housing initiatives, highlighting the urgent need to address the broader housing crisis. He questioned the Ministry’s timeline for implementing zoning reforms to resolve land-use conflicts and demanded greater transparency in public land allocation and subsidy distribution.

Citing insufficient progress on road maintenance, sewage system improvements, and flood resilience measures, Doran emphasized the need for accelerated infrastructure investment. He also called for the proper and efficient use of trust fund resources, combined with rigorous accountability.

Vendor Concerns and Economic Recovery

With a direct focus on economic fairness, MP Doran raised concerns regarding vendors displaced by the Philipsburg Marketplace project. He sought clarification on actionable timelines for soil testing, tendering, and final project completion. He urged the Ministry of TEATT to prioritize financial relief for affected vendors while holding parties accountable for project delays.

Education Policies and Youth Opportunities

On education, Doran argued for increased funding for the Business Outreach and Placement (BOP) program to expand internship opportunities for youth. He also demanded updates on policies supporting school entry for late-born children, advocating for equitable access to education.

Commitment to Transparency and Action

Through his detailed line of questioning, MP Egbert Doran reiterated his commitment to holding ministries accountable and ensuring transparency in government operations. He concluded by calling for immediate action to address budgetary inefficiencies and systemic gaps, stressing the importance of equitable and sustainable progress for the people of Sint Maarten.

“The people of Sint Maarten deserve clarity, fairness, and accountability,” Doran stated. “We cannot continue repeating our mistakes. It is our responsibility to ensure that promises are met with actions.”

CAY HILL:--- The Mental Health Foundation (MHF) recently wrapped up a three-day introduction and planning session with the architects from the company Politecnica, who will oversee the design of MHF’s new facility.

The sessions took place from Wednesday, June 4, to Friday, June 6, and were an important step toward building a modern mental health facility.

On Wednesday, the Politecnica team met with the MHF Board for formal introductions and a dedicated discussion session. During this meeting, Politecnica shared their preliminary ideas for the new building and received valuable feedback and input from board members, further enriching the design process with strategic and governance-level perspectives.

The Politecnica team presented MHF management with an overview of their conceptual design and vision for the new facility on Thursday. This initial session set the tone for a lively and informative visit. Following the presentation, the architects were given a guided tour of the current MHF facility, allowing them to observe the existing infrastructure and operations firsthand.

The focus on Friday was on getting input from the staff. Architects held meetings with different teams at MHF to hear about their needs and any challenges they face. Francetta Schoe from the National Recovery Program Bureau, board secretary Erika van der Horst and board member Jimmy Challenger also took part in these discussions.

After Politecnica’s introduction, staff were able to review the necessary requirements and give their input on the additional ideas and needs within their individual departments that can benefit both themselves as well as for the clients. These conversations brought to light some important needs that might have been overlooked, showing how crucial it is to include everyone in the planning process.

Politecnica is known for its approach that focuses on community and well-being, combining the talents of architects, engineers, and technicians.

The project is funded through the Sint Maarten Trust Fund and is part of an initiative by the National Recovery Program Bureau. Groundbreaking is set for 2026, with completion expected in 2027.

“These sessions marked a pivotal moment in our journey toward a modern, purpose-built facility,” said Finance and Operations Director Sandro Garcia. “Having the architects on-site allowed for meaningful dialogue and collaboration, ensuring that the design truly reflects the daily realities, aspirations and needs of our team and clients. This visit brings the vision one step closer to reality.”

“The Mental Health Foundation is looking forward to this major step and is dedicated to making sure the new facility provides top-notch care and meets the needs of the Sint Maarten community,” said Medical Director Hendrikus van Gaalen as the session wrapped up.

PHILIPSBURG: --- Member of Parliament and United People's Party Leader, Omar E.C. Ottley, has lambasted the Justice Ministry following a recent court ruling that deemed the conditions in police holding cells inhumane. The ruling validated MP Ottley’s ongoing concerns about the Justice Minister’s decision to relocate inmates from the fire-damaged Pointe Blanche House of Detention to Philipsburg and Simpson Bay police cells. These facilities, which have long been classified as unfit for detention beyond ten days, have been operating under dire conditions.

“This ruling is not about vindication but about doing what’s right,” MP Ottley declared during his address in the ongoing 2025 Budget Debate. “The court has confirmed what we already knew—we cannot justify the inhumane treatment of people, not in a democracy and certainly not under my watch.”

The MP expressed outrage over the systemic failings exposed by the ruling. While the court decision revolved around one inmate’s case, Ottley noted, “The issue is far greater than just one individual. This is a systemic failure of our correctional system, and our government’s lack of urgency to implement meaningful reform is unacceptable.”

Mismanagement and Misrepresentation

MP Ottley criticized the Justice Ministry’s handling of the situation, including misleading public updates on prison conditions. He cited inconsistencies between statements issued by the Minister and observations made during his visit to police holding cells and Pointe Blanche Prison.

“The public was told that inmates had access to phone calls as compensation for suspended visitation rights. This is false. We personally visited the facilities and found no such accommodations in place,” Ottley noted. “Similarly, the Minister claimed inmates were offered adequate sunlight, yet we witnessed the opposite. These are basic human rights, not privileges.”

Adding to his concerns, Ottley highlighted significant unanswered questions regarding Ms. Schaap, a Dutch expert reportedly brought in to improve Sint Maarten’s prison system. “The Ministry alleges she’s working day and night on processes, but what processes, exactly? Nobody can explain. How much is she being paid? How can we afford this when we can’t even provide proper bedding for inmates or operational toilets?”

The MP also revealed that funds allocated for prison reform and the construction of new facilities remain tied up due to the absence of an actionable execution plan. Ottley urged the Justice Ministry to prioritize transparency in detailing how resources are being allocated and spent.

A National Emergency in Correctional Facilities

Ottley painted a grim picture of current detention conditions. “Fourteen men are crammed into a holding space designed for six. Basic hygiene is nonexistent, with toilets that back up sewage into cells. Many inmates are forced to sleep on the floor due to suffocating temperatures,” he described.

He further criticized the costly deployment of external support staff. “Dutch Marines, police from Curaçao, and other external personnel have been brought in to assist, yet we cannot find the means to increase salaries or improve working conditions for our local officers. Where are these funds coming from? Why are we prioritizing outside help over our own people?”

Ottley underscored how the current state of police cells and the lack of actionable plans for Pointe Blanche Prison not only violate human rights but also risk further legal consequences. “I’ve handled three cases in the European Court of Human Rights where Sint Maarten was found guilty. Those cases alone cost the government nearly €3000 in compensation per claimant. If we continue down this path, the financial burden on our country will only grow,” he warned.

Solutions for a Broken System

MP Ottley called for immediate reform, including the safe relocation of inmates currently housed in police cells. He underscored the need for a modern correctional facility that meets international standards while promoting rehabilitation to prepare inmates for reentry into society better.

“This isn’t just about fixing cells. It’s about fixing the system. First-time offenders are being locked in outdated spaces alongside hardened criminals, with no opportunity for rehabilitation. We’re not just failing the inmates; we’re failing the society they’ll return to,” Ottley said.

The MP also urged the government to address the dangerously low officer-to-inmate ratio at Pointe Blanche Prison, calling for expedited recruitment efforts and improved compensation for officers. “Our officers put their lives on the line daily. It’s unacceptable that they’re left with outdated salary scales and no opportunities for promotion. If we want professionalism, we must treat them as professionals,” he argued.

Accountability is Non-Negotiable

MP Ottley concluded his address with a resolute call for action, urging the Justice Minister and the government as a whole to act swiftly in light of the court’s decision. “Now that the law has spoken, we all know what’s morally right. The Minister must act, and this government must prioritize meaningful reform. Another scandal, lawsuit, or day of inaction is something our country cannot afford,” Ottley declared.

For Ottley, the message is clear. “Reform doesn’t end with complaints or court rulings; it begins with accountability. I will continue to push for immediate and lasting change. This is about justice, not only for inmates and officers, but for the future of St. Maarten as a whole.”