The advice continued by stating the outcome of the votes for the motion presented by the National Alliance was six for and seven against, meaning the motion was rejected.
According to MP William Marlin, with the application of paragraph 1 of article 53 of the Constitution, the result of the voting would have been 6 for and 6 against. Therefore, Parliament has to vote again on the motion in its next public meeting.
Arrindell said based on the rules of order of the Parliament of St. Maarten there are no provisions for situations like this and the question now remains if there is a legal basis for the position taken by Member of Parliament William Marlin.
The Chairlady also pointed out in the advice that during the voting on November 17th no objections were made against Member of Parliament Jules James who voted on both motions that were tabled.
Furthermore, Article 51 nor elsewhere in the Rules of Order provides any basis for the procedure suggested by the National Alliance Faction, the advice states.
Therefore, the voting on the two motions that were presented on November 17th "Dismissal of the Pelican workers" are in order and the result of the vote will remain the same.
It should be noted that Arrindell sent her letter and attached advice and motion one week after she was summoned by the Governor of St. Maarten to discuss the breach of article 53 of the constitution.
Click here to view the letter and advice the Chairlady of Parliament sent to the Members of Parliament on December 9th.
