PHILIPSBURG:--- It is with deep concern and mounting frustration that the St. Maarten Hospitality & Trade Association (SHTA) is witnessing our Government’s ongoing reluctance to engage in a cooperative dialogue with Holland with regards to securing much-needed recovery funds for the country.
Our unconcerned Parliament seems to sit by and let Government get away with unnecessary political games to the detriment of the recovery of the nation. This while people are without roofs, without secure income and without a strong economy to look forward to.
The conditions put on the table by the Dutch, the installation of an integrity chamber and stricter border controls, would only strengthen our young nation and add much-needed checks and balances.
Hereby, on behalf of all our members, we urgently request that Parliament adopt a motion supporting the necessary legislation as per the conditions set by the Kingdom and to instruct Government to provide its unconditional commitment to act toward same and to officially request reconstruction and relief funds from Holland, as soon as possible. After all, the date for the Integrity chamber was already agreed to by our Prime Minister before Irma; and Holland only wants to ensure that the deadline does not slip.
The time to act is almost over and enough time has been exhausted. Let's get this done so we may get on with the much-needed Building Back Better of the country.
SHTA Press Release
http://www.smn-news.com/st-maarten-st-martin-news/27397-why-is-government-still-stalling.html
