PHILIPSBURG:---
Chair of Sint Maarten’s Justice Committee, MP Roseburg, has expressed disappointment over the unexpected cancellation of a crucial meeting with the outgoing Minister of Justice, originally scheduled for Friday. Despite the Minister’s earlier commitment on October 21 to return within a week to address over 50 pressing questions, his withdrawal leaves critical issues unresolved just weeks before the end of his term on November 26.
Seeing that the Honorable Minister of Justice is also a Member of Parliament and Vice-Chair of the Justice Committee, Roseburg made it clear that, while the cancellation is concerning, she remains hopeful the Minister will still fulfill his promise before his term concludes. “As someone with a justice background, committed to justice and the people of Sint Maarten, I expect and remain hopeful that despite this setback, the Minister will honor his commitment to answer these pressing questions and address the critical issues facing the justice sector before his term ends,” Roseburg said.
She emphasized that it is essential for the Justice Ministry and law enforcement personnel not to be left in limbo as the Minister’s tenure comes to a close. “The people of Sint Maarten deserve clarity and solutions,” she stated. “This isn’t just about a leadership transition—it’s about ensuring the stability of our justice system and providing answers to those serving within it, especially as they face immense challenges.”
Pending matters that remain unresolved include:
• Delayed national decrees (LBs)
• Pending purchase of police cars
• Poor condition of police cells
• Severe uniform shortages (batons, handcuffs, shoes)
• Suppliers halting business over unpaid debts (e.g., Prime)
• Public safety concerns amid rising crime
• Prison capacity and safety issues
.critical situation national detectives.”
These unresolved issues have left many law enforcement personnel frustrated and, in some cases, led them to leave the force, creating risks to public safety. Roseburg stressed that “Justice doesn’t stop for leadership changes,” she said. “These are urgent matters that demand immediate attention.”
Despite the setback caused by the cancellation, Roseburg maintains her belief that the Minister will fulfill his obligations. “I remain hopeful that the Minister will still address these critical issues as promised, ensuring that the Justice Ministry does not fall into a state of uncertainty during this transition period,” she affirmed. “The work of justice must continue, and it is my expectation that the Minister will take the necessary actions to ensure that these matters are resolved before the end of his term.”
Roseburg’s statement underscores her continued hope that the Minister will not leave the Justice Ministry in limbo but will instead act with the urgency and responsibility required to safeguard the justice sector and public safety.
