Prime Minister Dr. Luc Mercelina addressed pressing questions regarding the ongoing developments surrounding G.E.B.E., the utility company at the heart of recent discussions in Sint Maarten. The Prime Minister provided clarity on the relief measures being implemented and the progress in appointing the management board of N.V. G.E.B.E.
Relief Efforts for the Most Vulnerable
Dr. Mercelina began by outlining the steps being taken to provide relief to the most vulnerable members of Sint Maarten’s society. He highlighted that G.E.B.E. has allocated XCg 600,000 to assist those in need. This initiative is being carried out in collaboration with the Social Affairs Department of the Government of Sint Maarten.
Additionally, the Prime Minister announced that the government is working on introducing a household subsidy program to support the community further. "We are starting now with the preparation to see if we can, as I presented in Parliament, introduce a household subsidy to the community of Sint Maarten," he stated. The government plans to allocate between 5 to 6 million for this initiative, which is expected to provide relief over the next four to six months, depending on the constraints of the national budget.
Progress on Management Board Appointments
When asked about the status of the management board appointments for N.V. G.E.B.E., Dr. Mercelina provided an update on the ongoing process. He revealed that the government is in the final stages of appointing a candidate for the C-suite level of the company. "We are busy with accommodating the C-suite level of G.E.B.E. Coincidentally, in the coming two weeks, we are in the finalization of the appointment of one candidate for the C-level," he explained. However, the Prime Minister noted that it was still premature to disclose specific details about the appointments.
The Prime Minister’s updates reflect the government’s commitment to addressing the challenges faced by G.E.B.E. and ensuring that relief measures reach those who need them most. While the financial constraints of the national budget remain a challenge, the introduction of a household subsidy program signals a proactive approach to supporting the people of Sint Maarten.
As the government finalizes the appointments for G.E.B.E.’s management board, the public can expect further updates in the coming weeks. These developments are critical to ensuring the stability and efficiency of the utility company, which plays a vital role in the daily lives of Sint Maarten’s residents.
Dr. Mercelina’s remarks underscore the government’s dedication to transparency and action as it navigates these complex issues. The people of Sint Maarten will undoubtedly be watching closely as these initiatives unfold.
