PHILIPSBURG: --- Former Minister of Finance and current Member of Parliament Ardwell Irion delivered sharp criticism of the government during today’s public meeting of Parliament, accusing the coalition of failing to prioritize the country’s financial stability and the welfare of civil servants.
Irion opened his remarks by congratulating the St. Martin Promoting Young Ambassadors Foundation on hosting its 11th annual Interscholastic Idol Competition, commending the participating schools and students for what he described as a successful and inspiring event.
However, the MP quickly shifted focus to what he called the government’s continued inability to present the national budget on time. According to Irion, Parliament had previously received a timeline from the Minister of Finance indicating that the draft budget would be submitted by May 1.
“Every press briefing and every article from ministers speaks about the lack of funding and not having money,” Irion stated. “But Parliament was given a timeline, and the silence now is very telling.”
The opposition MP questioned when Parliament would realistically debate the budget, noting that Members of Parliament are expected to travel for upcoming inter-parliamentary meetings, further delaying discussions.
Irion also warned that ordinary citizens and civil servants are already feeling the effects of the delay. He argued that government employees cannot receive cost-of-living adjustments or increased vacation pay without an approved budget.
“Every month that this government sits in office is a day that you get poorer,” he said.
The MP further criticized the government for failing to advance discussions on revenue-generating measures despite earlier commitments from the Minister of Finance to return to Parliament with detailed proposals, including the proposed dividend withholding tax initiative.
Irion accused the coalition of focusing more on political disputes and parliamentary power struggles than on economic solutions, citing the rapid scheduling of recent meetings on motions of no confidence while financial discussions remain stalled.
He also took aim at the government’s decision not to reduce fuel-related taxes to provide relief from rising gasoline prices, referencing measures taken by previous administrations.
“The government is continuing to monitor while people continue to struggle,” Irion said, suggesting the administration is benefiting from higher fuel revenues instead of easing the burden on consumers.
The remarks added to growing criticism from opposition members regarding government spending priorities and the delayed handling of the country’s 2026 budget.
