PHILIPSBURG:--- PM Mercelina Criticizes Political Games in Parliament, Cites Disservice to Frontline Workers
Philipsburg — During the government’s weekly press briefing, Prime Minister Dr. Luc Mercelina delivered a pointed critique of recent developments in Parliament, warning that continued political gamesmanship is undermining efforts to resolve critical issues facing St. Maarten’s frontline workers, particularly members of the Fire Department.
Dr. Mercelina described his frustration over what he termed “the prioritization of political maneuvering over the urgent needs of our public servants.” He stressed that while the government has worked to address the ongoing dispute with the Fire Department union—especially regarding retroactive payments, job placements, and the implementation of a new function book—legislative inaction has stalled tangible progress. “These issues are not new. We have worked hard to agree on retroactive payments and to ensure the correct placement process for our workers, all guided by the newly adopted function book,” he said. “But time and again, the focus is shifted away from solutions.”
Referring to last Thursday’s parliamentary walkout, sparked by his absence due to official business in Aruba, the Prime Minister confirmed that Deputy Prime Minister Grisha Heyliger Marten had been authorized to handle matters in his stead. “Parliament is well aware that there are proper procedures in place for representation. Walking out did nothing but delay the critical conversations that our community so desperately needs to move forward,” he stated.
Addressing the failed follow-up meeting scheduled for Tuesday, February 3rd, Dr. Mercelina noted that several opposition MPs were absent. He said the opposition members of parliament are the ones who requested the meeting, and when the meetings are scheduled, there is no show. It should be noted that three of the opposition Members of Parliament are off-island, and the chair of Parliament failed to convene the meeting on Monday, February 2nd, 2026.
Dr. Mercelina provided a comprehensive update on the government’s steps to resolve the dispute, noting that negotiations with the union had already resulted in agreements on retroactive payments and that the appointment of a mediator had been completed to help bridge outstanding gaps. He explained, “We have moved forward in good faith, agreeing to a mediator and making progress on virtually all substantive issues. However, the union’s shifting demands, particularly the recent push for all ministers to join the talks directly, create unnecessary complexity and risk undermining the entire mediation process.”
The Prime Minister also raised concerns about demands for a “commitment letter” that would commit the government to actions lacking a solid legal basis. “Governance must rest on agreements that can actually be realized. It does not serve anyone to make promises we cannot fulfill within the legal framework of our country,” he emphasized.
Looking at the broader impact of these political maneuvers, Dr. Mercelina argued that each delay and act of posturing sends a discouraging message to frontline employees. “These delays do not just slow progress—they hurt the trust, morale, and financial security of our firefighters and other dedicated civil servants. Our focus has to be on outcomes, not optics.”
He concluded with a call to action, urging all representatives, regardless of party, to recommit to working for the benefit of St. Maarten’s people. “Parliament must set aside tactics and self-interest and return to the business of real governance. The lives and livelihoods of our frontline workers, and indeed the standard of governance for St. Maarten, depend on it.”