~MP says Parliament must lead by example following Monday’s incident involving MP Dimar Labega~
PHILIPSBURG:--- Member of Parliament Ardwell Irion on Tuesday publicly addressed the incident that occurred on the floor of Parliament Monday afternoon, during which he said he was attacked by fellow MP Dimar Labega.
Speaking during a parliamentary meeting on Tuesday afternoon, Irion described the situation as “unfortunate” and expressed disappointment that the matter had become public through media reports rather than being addressed internally by those involved.
“It is unfortunate to even have to have this discussion on the floor of Parliament,” Irion stated. “My preference would be to focus on the matters that are most pressing and touching to the people.”
While acknowledging the seriousness of the altercation, Irion used the moment to call for higher standards of conduct among elected officials, arguing that Members of Parliament must set the tone for the wider community.
“We cannot be condescending and ridiculing the public if we, as Members of Parliament, cannot and will not set an example of what we want and expect to see from the general public,” he said.
Irion emphasized that political disagreement and criticism are part of democracy and parliamentary life. Drawing comparisons to political systems abroad, including the United States, he noted that politicians are regularly scrutinized and challenged by opponents.
“In politics, we discuss each other,” Irion said. “I have been criticized in opposition, in coalition, and as a minister. I don’t take criticism as a hindrance — I take criticism and turn that into solutions.”
The MP also defended his right to speak freely in Parliament and rejected what he described as intimidation or threats aimed at limiting debate.
“There’s not one MP who’s going to tell me that I cannot call out issues, discuss matters, or bring motions because I must be concerned about a threat,” Irion declared. “I fear no man. None.”
Irion stressed that Parliament provides procedures and mechanisms for members to respond when they feel offended or misrepresented, including points of clarification and parliamentary questions, rather than physical confrontation.
“Our duty is oversight of government. Our duty is to hold each other accountable,” he said. “Inside of here, we discuss what we say, what we do, and how government operates.”
He concluded by stating that while apologies had been acknowledged, clear standards for conduct moving forward were necessary.
The incident has sparked public discussion about decorum and professionalism within Parliament, with many now calling for calm and respect among the nation’s elected representatives.
PHILIPSBURG:--- Tensions continued to rise in Parliament on Tuesday afternoon as Member of Parliament Francisco Lacroes delivered a passionate presentation during the notification segment of the parliamentary meeting, sharply criticizing the handling of ongoing issues involving VSA and the Prime Minister, Dr. Luc Mercelina.
PHILIPSBURG:--- Orco Bank Sint Maarten today announced the launch of Orco Cares, a new community impact program that formalizes the bank's long-term commitment to the people and places of Sint Maarten through volunteerism and community service.
PHILIPSBURG:--- Minister of Public Health, Social Development and Labor (VSA), Richinel Brug, is expected to appear before Parliament on Tuesday and Wednesday during meetings where a motion of no confidence is expected to be presented against him. Ahead of those meetings, Minister Brug says the people of Sint Maarten deserve clarity about how and why the situation reached this point.
