PHILIPSBURG:--- The General Audit Chamber has published their latest report entitled “Audit on the Reliability of Statistics.” The report reviews the environment in which the Department of Statistics (STAT) operates and assesses whether it supports the Department's ability to produce reliable national statistics.
The audit was carried out in response to public concerns about the timeliness and accuracy of statistics, and the role these statistics play in measuring St. Maarten’s progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The report finds that STAT operates under challenging conditions, both within government and in relation to external partners. Several factors were identified that affect the department’s ability to function effectively. Within the department, there has been a high staff turnover. There are also difficulties in attracting staff with the required technical skills. As a result, it is difficult for STAT to carry out its annual work, improve its processes and maintain relationships with data providers and users.
These staffing challenges have led to a reliance on external consultants, limited quality control, and delays in publishing statistics. In addition, the department has not had a permanent Department Head since 2024, with the role being fulfilled on an acting basis. During the audit, several new staff members were hired. However, a 2022 peer review by CBS Netherlands indicated that at least ten qualified staff members are needed to carry out the work program. Maintaining and expanding staff capacity remains an important issue.
Externally, there are also challenges. STAT faces difficulties in collecting complete data, especially through surveys and government records. Incomplete data affects the accuracy and usefulness of statistics. Stronger cooperation between government departments could improve this situation.
The report also notes that several organizations in St. Maarten already collect useful data. Better data-sharing between these organizations and STAT could improve the quality and relevance of national statistics. High staff turnover has made it difficult to develop these connections, but recent hiring may create new opportunities.
The full report is available on the website of the General Audit Chamber: www.arsxm.org
