PHILIPSBURG:--- In a decisive move that underscores growing unease, Member of Parliament Darryl T. J. York has formally called for a parliamentary Question Hour, requesting transparency and a clear path forward for the government-owned telecommunications provider, TelEm.
The request, directed to the Honorable Minister of Finance Marinka Gumbs, seeks to cut through the noise of contrasting public articles and lay bare the facts concerning TelEm's governance, financial health, and leadership. This session promises to be a pivotal moment for public clarity, following a turbulent period of restructuring that saw over 80 employees relieved of their jobs and left the nation questioning the stability of a critical utility.
“As the sole shareholder of TelEm, the government is the company's representative in Parliament. It is therefore to the government that we must turn for a clear and official account of its operations and strategic future.” MP York stated. The public is faced with a puzzle of conflicting reports about TelEm. They deserve a clear picture, not just for today, but for the long-term health of the service they depend on."
The upcoming Question Hour is set to tackle the most pressing issues head-on, including:
- The "Quickscan": What did the recently conducted operational review actually uncover? York is requesting that the results be made public and is asking for the government's concrete plan of action based on its findings.
- The Leadership Vacuum: Why has the appointment of a permanent CEO been stalled despite the search being completed? The absence of stable leadership (a complete management board) at the helm raises serious concerns about strategic direction and accountability.
- Financial Oversight & Spending: In the wake of significant staff cuts, how are financial resources being managed? MPs will probe the travel expenditures of the management board and consultants, and seek to understand how many of the vacated positions are now filled with costly external consultants.
- The Contradictory Narrative: How does the government, as the primary shareholder, reconcile the conflicting reports from management and the union representatives regarding the company's true financial and operational state? This session aims to separate fact from fiction.
This is more than a procedural formality; it is a crucial intervention. TelEm is a cornerstone of St. Maarten's infrastructure, and its performance directly impacts the daily lives of citizens and the health of the economy.
“TelEm is too important to our people and our economy for there to be any uncertainty in its management and strategic planning,” York concluded. “Through this Question Hour, I hope to bring clarity, transparency, and renewed public confidence.”
