PHILIPSBURG:--- The Chair of Parliament, Sarah Wescot-Williams, has issued a detailed document to Members of Parliament (MPs) outlining the procedure for debating the second draft of the 2025 budget. While the 2025 budget has already been approved by Parliament, unresolved issues from the original draft necessitated this revised version for further discussion and resolution.
The document, titled Guide for the Handling of the Second Draft Budget 2025, serves as a comprehensive framework to guide MPs in fulfilling their oversight duties during this critical phase. It lays out the schedules, protocols, and expectations that aim to ensure the process is efficient and constructive.
Structured Schedule for Review
The evaluation of the second draft budget will begin with a Central Committee meeting set to commence on Monday, June 9, 2025, at 10 a.m. This session may extend through June 10 and June 11, as needed. During these discussions, the Council of Ministers will be present throughout. MPs will have the opportunity to raise questions and seek clarifications on the revised budget during this stage, with each MP allocated up to 60 minutes to contribute.
Following the Central Committee's work, deliberations will transition to a Public meeting starting on Wednesday, June 18, 2025. The public discussions may span three days and will allow MPs more opportunities for input, with 90 minutes per MP in the first round and 45 minutes in the second.
Guidelines for Orderly Debate
The guide emphasizes the importance of a systematic approach to address open-budget matters. MPs are advised to pose their questions to the government in a specific sequence, beginning with the Ministry of Finance, and continuing through ministries including General Affairs, Justice, Public Health, and Tourism, among others. The purpose of this structured order is to promote clarity and avoid confusion, as well as to help the Secretariat of Parliament compile an accurate final report.
MPs are further encouraged to collaborate within their factions to streamline inquiries and avoid redundancy. The Chair of Parliament has noted that timely submission of questions will aid in expediting the reporting process and ensuring a productive debate.
Logistical details, such as luncheon breaks from 1 to 2 p.m. and light suppers at 6 p.m., are also addressed, ensuring that MPs can participate efficiently in the meeting sessions, which are scheduled to end by 9 p.m. unless an extension is warranted to complete the session.
Ensuring Efficient Oversight and Governance
The guidelines require Ministers to respond to all questions relating to their respective ministries. To enhance efficiency, ministers will appear in Parliament a maximum of two times during the discussions. This measure ensures that unresolved issues from the first draft of the 2025 budget are addressed thoroughly and transparently.
The Chair of Parliament has emphasized the importance of cooperation and preparation to ensure a focused and swift handling of the budget matters. By standardizing the process and providing clear guidelines, the document seeks to reinforce good governance and accountability in public finances.
Moving Forward with Transparency
This structured guide reflects Parliament’s dedication to addressing budgetary concerns comprehensively and collaboratively. With all outstanding issues expected to be resolved during this revised budget review, the guide underscores Parliament's commitment to accountability, professionalism, and the effective management of Sint Maarten’s financial affairs.
Members of Parliament are tasked with ensuring the best outcomes for the nation, and this document provides the framework for achieving that goal.
Click here to read the guidelines for the second draft budget debate
