PHILIPSBURG: --- Prime Minister Dr. Luc Mercelina marked his first year in office with a comprehensive overview of his administration's accomplishments. Despite facing early challenges, including the collapse of his first cabinet and subsequent elections, Prime Minister Mercelina emphasized the resilience and progress of his government, speaking on a wide range of initiatives that have strengthened the nation across multiple sectors.
May 3rd marked one year after the swearing-in of the first Mercelina Cabinet, which faced a collapse within weeks. Following elections in November, the Cabinet Mercelina II took office with a renewed mandate, pressing forward with its vision for "a peaceful, dynamic, and productive St. Maarten." The Prime Minister outlined his administration's strategy for stability, economic growth, and robust public service improvements.
Strengthening Governance and Public Service
Prime Minister Mercelina highlighted significant strides in bettering the government organization, from boosting civil servant satisfaction to implementing reforms to improve accountability. Among these is introducing a whistleblower policy, designed in consultation with the Integrity Chamber, to foster openness, reduce misconduct, and establish trust within the organization.
A national integrity assessment has also been initiated to evaluate standards across the public sector.
The Integrity Chamber’s draft plan of action will soon be presented to parliament, further bolstering transparency and ethics in governance.
Other public service initiatives included cost-of-living adjustments, increased vacation allowances, and ongoing efforts to develop a draft car policy to reduce government fleet expenditures.
Enhancing Infrastructure and Utilities
The administration tackled critical infrastructure projects head-on. One standout achievement was securing $40 million in support to stabilize the local energy provider GEBE, resolving a previous energy crisis, and achieving grid stability.
The government also opened the expanded Carnival Village, restored road improvement projects in conjunction with limited funds, and initiated efforts to digitize government operations.
Additionally, progress on the long-awaited hospital project has been visible, a development Prime Minister Mercelina referred to as his “baby.” With substantial headway made in construction, he emphasized its significance to the health and well-being of St. Maarten residents.
Economic Growth and Tourism Development
The government worked to stimulate economic recovery, particularly through the tourism and entrepreneurial sectors. Airlift to St. Maarten was expanded, with new airline partnerships secured from Europe, South America, and the United States. Events like Carnival 2025 and the Soul Beach initiative aimed to boost economic activity while enriching national cultural life.
The Ministry of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Traffic, and Telecommunication (TEATT) also spearheaded efforts to revitalize Philipsburg and launched incentives for small vendors and business owners.
Focus on Justice and Security
Under the Ministry of Justice, the government advanced several key projects. Seven recruits were added to the police force, a new substation was opened in Cole Bay, and uniforms and essential equipment were provided to customs personnel. The administration also tackled backlogs in immigration permits, processing over 2,000 in just six months, and streamlined immigration permit procedures by introducing new software.
Efforts were also made to promote cross-border collaborations, including an upcoming treaty between the Netherlands and France to address shared security concerns in the lagoon area.
Social Services and Health Improvements
The Ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labor (VSA) achieved notable successes, such as increasing the minimum wage and expediting old-age pension processes. The government allocated funds for mental health care and homelessness projects, including a six-month pilot program launched in April 2025.
The administration also initiated a health professional registry and secured additional trust fund financing to address mental health challenges in St. Maarten.
Final Reflections
Reflecting on his government’s accomplishments, Prime Minister Mercelina urged the public not to overlook the progress made across ministries, despite financial constraints and ongoing challenges. "We must not forget the strides taken,” he said, attributing achievements to the collective efforts of ministers working as one team.
Dr. Mercelina’s administration looks ahead to continued collaboration among ministries and the rollout of its governing program, which promises even more initiatives to secure a bright and prosperous future for St. Maarten.
