Oranjestad:--- Sint Eustatius’ budget for 2025 has been adopted on time, and shows a surplus by means of which unexpected setbacks may be absorbed. Financial management still requires attention. The CFT requested the Public Entity to provide a better insight into the budget and spoke with the Executive Council about the steps that must be taken in order to achieve an unqualified audit opinion as soon as possible.
Budget for 2024 and 2025
The budget for 2025 was adopted on October 31st, 2024. The Cft observed that its recommendations regarding the draft budget for 2025 have been implemented for the most part, and forwarded the budget to the Secretary of State for the Interior and Kingdom Relations for approval. With the estimated surplus of USD 2.1 million in 2024, at current the Public Entity is on track to meet its obligation to compensate the 2023 deficit. Also for 2025 a surplus has been estimated (USD 1.9 million).
Financial management
Sint Eustatius is working on the improvement of financial management. Regarding the annual accounts for 2023, the external auditor again stated they refrain from issuing an opinion. Despite this assessment, the auditor, as well as the CFT, do observe an improvement of financial management. Internal control is an important point of attention. The CFT spoke with the Executive Council about the steps that must be taken in order to achieve an unqualified audit opinion as soon as possible.
Climate and energy
The Cft delegation attended Statia Day and visited the STUCO solar park. The delegation also visited the Sint Eustatius National Parks (STENAPA).
