MP Wescot turn up the heat on Finance Minister.
“In politics, what you say can come back to haunt you.” Says MP Wescot-Williams. She turned up the pressure on Finance Minister Irion, seeking information regarding the budget 2022. Several weeks ago in a meeting of Parliament the Minister confidently stated that the draft 2022 budget would reach Parliament by the date prescribed in the Constitution of Sint Maarten, that being no later than September 1st. Article (100 sec.#3). During the opening of the current Parliamentary year, we’ve learned from the Governor’s presentation that the 2022 budget will reach the Parliament in the month of November. No further explanation was given as to this delay. According to MP Wescot Williams her earlier statement proved to be on point: “The Government is taking this Parliament for granted.”
Ironically, the current Minister of Finance, when he was an MP, affixed his signature to a motion, seeking the removal of former Minister Perry Geerlings, citing one of the reasons as being a delayed budget. Yet, while the work on implementation agendas continues, Parliament’s scrutiny of Government’s actions is being impeded due to this Government’s inconsideration for democratic processes and dynamics.
Wescot continued in her statement; we are yet to receive some financial information that makes it clear what the cost is of the activities of the implementation agenda(s). 2021 budget was way late and after approval still needs to be sent to the CFT. So we are waiting for that as well. The COHO organization is in the making and from all accounts it is going to be quite an undertaking. The administration of Government will pale in comparison in her view.
The following questions have been asked of the Minister of Finance:
Why is the draft budget 2022 delayed until November 2021?
Are there any commitments made from the implementation agendas that will affect the budget 2022?
If so, what are these commitments?
Will there be any financing for the COHO in the 2022 budget? If so, what are these?
Has the CFT received the approved 2021 budget? If so, has the CFT advised regarding the approved budget? What is the advice?
Are you still of the opinion that a delayed budget is grounds for declaring that a minister does not have the confidence of Parliament?
Will you attempt to get the draft budget 2022 to the Parliament before November 2021? If so, when?
The MP is within her rights to ask these questions according to Article 62 in our constitution and should get answers within a reasonable period of time.
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