PHILIPSBURG:---—During the Parliament's Central Committee meeting on May 7th, 2025, MP Sjamira Roseburg raised pressing concerns about the handling of justice workers’ placements, with a particular focus on excluded prison workers, the significance of transparent communication, and the importance of avoiding costly errors in national decrees.
Commending Minister Nathalie Tackling for her honest and straightforward presentation, MP Roseburg called for further clarification on several critical issues, including the delayed inclusion of prison workers in the placement process.
Questions Surrounding Prison Workers
MP Roseburg queried why the Pointe Blanche prison workers were not included in the earlier phases of the function book and placement process. Reflecting on issues flagged in previous discussions, the MP sought to understand whether the exclusion resulted from the absence of a valid function book or an administrative oversight. Highlighting the need for accountability, MP Roseburg urged the Ministry to address the longstanding delay and provide a clear timeline for resolving the placement of the prison’s 90+ employees.
“The exclusion of the prison workers must be explained, whether it stems from a lack of planning or a mistake,” Roseburg stated, stressing the importance of ensuring fair treatment for all justice workers.
Communication and Mediation as Solutions
MP Roseburg also applauded the introduction of an additional communication phase in the placement process, describing it as a vital tool for ensuring that justice workers are informed and empowered. They emphasized that regular communication and mediation could serve as a bridge to understanding, reducing objections and delays.
“When there’s clear communication, misunderstandings can be resolved early, saving time and energy later. Mediation between parties can also help adjust placements to reflect any changes in roles or responsibilities,” MP Roseburg explained.
Roseburg pointed out that a lack of communication in previous processes had led to frustration and prolonged objection processes, as employees were often left in the dark about their placements until receiving the final decree. This gap, they argued, could undermine trust in the system.
Avoiding Mistakes that Lead to Court Cases
Another key point of MP Roseburg’s contribution centered on issuing error-free national decrees (LBAs) to avoid unnecessary court cases. Drawing on past examples of legal disputes caused by administrative errors, they emphasized the costly implications of such mistakes for the country.
“In the past, rushed or flawed decisions have led to court cases that strain the country’s finances. We cannot afford to repeat these mistakes,” she noted.
Roseburg underscored the value of thorough validation and communication within the justice workers’ placement process to prevent future litigation. The MP called on the Ministry to ensure that all placements are fully accurate and reflective of each worker’s position and responsibilities.
Payment Schedule Concerns
MP Roseburg also sought clarification on the payment structure for justice workers, referencing an agreement from the previous administration outlining installment plans for retroactive payments based on the amount's size. Given the long-standing delays, they requested an update on whether this system was still in place and expressed concern about ensuring timely and fair payments to workers.
Moving Forward
Roseburg’s contributions reflected a commitment to justice, fairness, and transparency within the placement process. By seeking clarity and pushing for accountability, they underscored the need to balance careful decision-making with the urgency of resolving justice workers’ grievances.
In concluding their remarks, MP Roseburg reiterated the importance of respecting the time and patience of justice workers while ensuring the government upholds its responsibilities. "It’s vital we do this right. Mistakes cost more in the long run, not just financially but in trust lost among our dedicated justice workers."
MP Roseburg’s pointed questions and suggestions set the tone for continuing discussions to improve the placement and treatment of justice workers across St. Maarten.