PHILIPSBURG:--- Minister of Tourism & Economic Affairs, Transport & Telecommunications (Ministry TEATT) Hon. Ted Richardson met with representatives from the Dutch Consumer Authority and Competition Authority (NMa) as well as the Independent Post and Telecommunications Authority (OPTA)during a recent working visit to the Netherlands.
The Dutch Consumer and Competition Authority as well as OPTA back in April 2013 joined forces as a new independent regulator, the Consumer & Market Authority (ACM) that looks out for the interests of consumers and businesses.
Minister Richardson informed the reps that he is working on the establishment of a Consumer Protection and Competition Authority. A feasibility study report and a policy report have been drafted and Ministry TEATT is now at the stage of drafting legislation.
Sint Maarten is contemplating the use of Bureau Telecommunication and Post (BTP), the independent regulatory authority, to implement and enforce the Competition Authority and Consumer Protection, once established.
ACM indicated during the discussions with Minister Richardson and his delegation, how they are also in charge of similar tasks for the BES Islands (Bonaire, St. Eustatius and Saba).
ACM is willing to assist Sint Maarten with the legislation for the Consumer Protection and Competition Authority by reviewing the feasibility report, policy and draft laws governing the aforementioned.
ACM indicated its willingness to visit the country in the near future to continue with consultative meetings on further enhancing collaboration, especially where it concerns the relationship between Sint Maarten and Saba/St. Eustatius.
The Minister's delegation comprised of Chef de Cabinet and Personal Advisor Ludwig Ouenniche and Jaap van Duinkerken from Ministry TEATT.
