~"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."
