HARBOUR VIEW:--- Claret Mac Miller Connor was officially appointed and sworn in on Wednesday, August 5, 2026, as Sint Maarten’s new Minister of Public Health, Social Development and Labor (VSA), completing the Council of Ministers of the Mercelina II Cabinet.
Connor took the oath of office before Acting Governor Dr. Emiko Bird-Lake during an official ceremony at the Governor’s residence in Harbor View.
In addressing the newly appointed minister, Bird-Lake described the appointment as a moment extending beyond the individual taking office, noting that changes during a governing period are inevitable but should not be allowed to hinder the country’s progress.
“Mr. Claret Connor, with your acceptance of this post as Minister of Public Health, Social Development and Labor, you complete the team of the Council of Ministers,” the Acting Governor said.
Connor Brings Government and Private-Sector Experience
Connor enters the VSA Ministry with experience in several senior positions in both government and public administration.
The Acting Governor highlighted his previous service as Minister of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transport and Telecommunication (TEATT) and Minister of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure (VROMI).
Connor also previously served as Executive Director of the Sint Maarten Chamber of Commerce and Industry and, most recently, as Director of the National Recovery Program Bureau (NRPB).
Bird-Lake said that experience gives the people of Sint Maarten reason to expect professionalism, honesty and objectivity from the incoming minister.
She stressed that Connor's decisions should be based on evidence and facts rather than personal feelings or opinions, while calling on him to demonstrate fairness, reliability and a strong work ethic throughout his tenure.
“The people trust that you will act with justice and fairness, remaining true to this country and to yourself,” the Acting Governor said.
Transparency and Integrity Emphasized
The Acting Governor also placed particular emphasis on transparency as Connor assumes responsibility for one of government's most significant portfolios.
VSA encompasses public health, social development and labor — areas that directly affect the daily lives and wellbeing of the population.
Bird-Lake said the country is facing numerous and complex challenges but stressed that they are not insurmountable. She called for vision and determination in pursuing a future based on justice, sustainability and opportunity.
She told Connor that the country was placing its trust in him to communicate transparently and work with determination for the benefit of the population.
The Acting Governor further reminded the new minister of the significance of the oath of office, describing it as a commitment to integrity, allegiance to the King and the Kingdom Charter, adherence to the Constitution of Sint Maarten, and dedication to the wellbeing of the people.
She said the oath should serve as a “compass” reminding Connor of the responsibility and dignity attached to his new position.
With Connor's swearing-in, the vacant VSA portfolio has now been filled and the Council of Ministers is once again complete.
The ceremony concluded with the Acting Governor congratulating the newly installed VSA Minister and calling on those present to join in expressing their support.