PHILIPSBURG: --- During the 2025 budget debate, Member of Parliament Omar E.C. Ottley submitted two critical motions addressing pressing issues in St Maarten: the ongoing human rights violations in the justice system and the financial burdens faced by residents and businesses due to high utility costs. These motions demonstrate a commitment to addressing systemic challenges and enhancing the quality of life for the people of Sint Maarten.
Motion 1: Justice System Reform and Human Rights Protection
The first motion focuses on the dire conditions at the Pointe Blanche Prison, which have drawn international scrutiny and placed Sint Maarten under the supervision of the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR). The motion highlights several key issues:
- Human Rights Violations: The prison’s capacity was significantly reduced after Hurricane Irma, and a recent fire has further exacerbated the inhumane conditions. These issues have led to violations of the ECHR, particularly Articles 3, 5, and 13, as well as the fundamental rights enshrined in Sint Maarten’s Constitution.
- Overpopulation and Alternatives: The motion calls for immediate measures to address overpopulation, including the reintroduction of electronic monitoring and sentence reduction schemes. It also emphasizes the need for alternative measures to prevent further violations of detainees' rights.
- Rehabilitation and Reintegration: MP Ottley emphasizes the importance of rehabilitation programs in reducing recidivism and alleviating pressure on the prison system. The motion proposes sentence reduction incentives for work, resocialization, and compliance with human rights standards.
- Collaboration and Accountability: The Minister of Justice is urged to collaborate with the Central Board of Probation, parole officers, and the Prison Director to assess inmate cases and implement alternative measures. A status update is requested within three months.
This motion underscores the urgent need for systemic reform in Sint Maarten’s justice system, prioritizing human rights and sustainable solutions.
Motion 2: Utility Relief for Residents and Businesses
The second motion addresses the financial hardships caused by high utility costs from NV GEBE, the island’s sole utility provider. MP Ottley highlights the following concerns:
- Economic Burden: Residents and businesses have been significantly impacted by high utility bills, driven by the Fuel Clause, Throughput Fee, and Turnover Tax (TOT). The situation has been worsened by NV GEBE’s inability to provide relief following a ransomware attack in 2022 and ongoing load shedding through late 2024.
- Quality of Life and Economic Recovery: The high costs of utilities are affecting the quality of life for residents and the operational capacity of businesses, hindering economic recovery and public confidence.
- Proposed Solutions: The motion calls for immediate action, including:
- Granting a one-year TOT exemption to SOL, the fuel supplier, under Article 8 of the Turnover Tax Ordinance.
- Removing TOT from government fuel price publications to provide direct relief to residents and businesses.
This motion aims to alleviate financial hardship, support economic recovery, and restore public confidence in NV GEBE’s ability to serve the community.
A Vision for a Better St Maarten
MP Omar Ottley’s motions reflect a proactive approach to addressing two of the most pressing issues facing Sint Maarten today. By advocating for justice reform and utility relief, he demonstrates a commitment to upholding human rights, improving living conditions, and fostering economic resilience.
Both motions call for collaboration among government ministries, stakeholders, and relevant authorities to ensure effective implementation. As Sint Maarten navigates these challenges, the leadership and vision of policymakers like MP Ottley will be crucial in shaping a brighter future for the island and its people.