GREAT BAY, Sint Maarten (DCOMM) – The Fourth
Implementation Agenda was approved on Friday, September 24 in the Kingdom
Council of Ministers. This agenda covers the period from
October-November-December.
Implementation Agendas outline action-points that have
to be taken by the Government of Sint Maarten and are therefore in line with
the final decision-making in the Council of Ministers and established after approval
in the Kingdom Council of Ministers.
The ministries have the lead in drafting the action
points that are linked to the reform measures as well as establishing the
corresponding timeframe for delivery of the measures. The ministries are
assisted by a Temporary Work Organization.
The implementation agenda is to be considered a
roadmap that outlines the priorities and the sequencing of implementation of
the reform measures.
On December 22, 2020, Sint Maarten and the Netherlands
signed a mutual agreement for implementation of the Sint Maarten Country Reform
Package.
The confirmation of this agreement has cleared the way
for the realization of reforms and investments aimed at enhancing the country’s
economic and social resilience in line with St. Maarten’s National Development
Vision (NDV).
The country reform package covers aspects of Financial
Control, Costs and effectiveness of the public sector, Taxes, Financial Sector,
Economic Reforms, Health, Education and Strengthening of the Rule of Law.
The ultimate aim with the country reform package is to
improve the overall well-being of our Country in terms of sustainable economic
growth and earning capacity. Good governance, solid government finances and
social cohesion, which are all considered vital building blocks for the
long-term development of the nation up to 2030.
The result will be an economy and society that is also
more resilient in the face of crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic, other
natural disasters, or economic shocks, while improving resilience – by offering
new opportunities for citizens and businesses.
The Sint Maarten Ministry of General Affairs
Department of Interior and Kingdom Relations (BAK) is providing secretariat
support in this process.