PHILIPSBURG:--- The National Alliance Board takes note of the recent public statements made by the URSM regarding the ongoing grievances of our Fire and Ambulance personnel. While we understand the government’s desire to reassure the public, we urge the URSM to keep its eyes on the road ahead and take them off the rear-view mirror. Every government inherits challenges, and this administration is no exception.
It is important to remember that, when he was a Member of Parliament, Prime Minister Luc Mercelina brought a motion of no confidence against then Minister of VSA Emil Lee, sending him home just seven months after a natural disaster. Yet today, without having faced any disaster himself, Prime Minister Mercelina and his URSM Board claim that almost two years in office is too short to deliver results. That contradiction speaks volumes. You cannot justify sending one minister home in seven months, then ask for sympathy after two years. That is the hypocrisy the public should see for what it is.
So at the end of the day, if everyone keeps pointing fingers, it takes away from productivity, from solutions, and from real progress for the people. It is time to focus on fixing the issues at hand instead of finding new ways to shift blame. The constant political deflection may serve short-term optics, but it does nothing to restore trust or show respect to those who serve this country faithfully.
If reflection on the past is to be made, let it be with the purpose of learning from it. The National Alliance understands that real growth comes from acknowledging what could have been done better and doing it differently now. The party refuses to be caught up in the political back and forth with the Prime Minister and his board, especially on such a sensitive matter.
What is truly reckless is not the call for respect from the Fire and Ambulance workers, but the way this government continues to mishandle legitimate union concerns. When a union describes meetings as one way briefings instead of genuine discussions, that is not progress, that is frustration. When civil servants who risk their lives every day feel disrespected, the issue is not political, it is human.
Standing with the people does not mean standing against government. It means holding government accountable to its promises. Real leadership is not about hiding behind press releases and photo opportunities, but about showing up, listening, and putting commitments in writing.
What our Fire and Ambulance workers are asking for is not unreasonable. They are asking for respect, dialogue, and fairness. These are not abstract concepts; they are the foundation of good governance. Leadership means creating an environment where people feel heard, valued, and respected.
The National Alliance stands with all public servants who continue to serve this country with professionalism and patience. The Fire and Ambulance personnel have waited long enough. Sint Maarten deserves leadership that listens, not lectures. The time for excuses and political spin has passed.
It is time for this administration to speak less and deliver more. The people are waiting.
National Alliance Board
