PHILIPSBURG: --- Prime Minister Dr. Luc Mercelina highlighted the strategic pillars of the governing program for 2024–2028, emphasizing resilience, innovation, and improvements in health and well-being. He stated that these pillars would be the foundation for the government’s vision and priorities.
The resilience strategy includes introducing a robust legal framework to ensure long-term sustainability. This includes steps toward electoral reform, more transparent screening processes for ministerial candidates, and advancing mental health care infrastructure.
A new ordinance led by the Ministry of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment, and Infrastructure is focusing especially on waste management.
Strengthening cross-border collaboration was identified as another means of bolstering resilience.
The Prime Minister spoke of enhancing ties with the French side of the island through improved emergency response mechanisms, joint economic initiatives, and integrated approaches to immigration, law enforcement, and education. He also noted the government’s intent to pursue associate membership in regional organizations such as CARICOM and the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS).
On innovation, the address highlighted steps to digitalize government operations, invest in education, and develop renewable energy initiatives.
The government aims to address the shortage of skilled professionals in the labor market by restructuring the educational system and preparing future generations for technological opportunities. Plans include integrating artificial intelligence tools into schools and completing the reconstruction of key educational institutions, such as the Sister Marie Laurence School and the Charles Leopold Bell School. The establishment of a national library was also mentioned as a priority project.
Healthcare remains a critical concern for the administration, with a renewed focus on preventative care, affordability, and quality improvements. Plans include raising mental health awareness, building a new mental health facility, and establishing a streamlined medical professional registry. The hospital construction project was described as a top priority for the government during this term.
Updates on Budget 2025
Prime Minister Marcelina discussed the developments surrounding the 2025 budget, which was approved unanimously by parliament earlier this year. However, technical issues related to amendments from both the government and parliament have delayed the finalization of the budget’s text.
To address this, the government proposed adopting a legislative methodology reminiscent of practices in the Netherlands.
This process involves creating an additional national ordinance to address and integrate these amendments. Once finalized, the legislation will be reviewed by Legal Affairs and other advisory entities before being submitted to the Committee for Financial Supervision (CFT). The Prime Minister underscored his administration's commitment to resolving the matter efficiently to move forward with the budget's implementation.
Reflections on the Netherlands Mission
Lastly, the Prime Minister shared highlights from his recent mission to the Netherlands from March 20 to March 30. During his visit, he participated in bilateral discussions and events, including career fairs, to engage the St. Martin diaspora and foster stronger connections. Mercelina emphasized the importance of extending opportunities for St. Martiners living abroad to contribute to the development of their home country.
Moving Forward
Prime Minister Marcelina affirmed his government’s commitment to its resilient, innovative, and healthy St. Maarten vision. While acknowledging the extensive scope of the governing program, he stated that these outlined initiatives clearly indicate the administration’s focus over the next four years.
