In closing of the year 2016, the Ombudsman of Sint Maarten, Dr. Nilda Arduin, recently commissioned an independent audit to review and evaluate both the operation and financial management of the institution. The assessment will be carried out by the accounting, audit and advisory firm BDO on Sint Maarten, who successfully obtained the engagement after two (2) other local firms were also invited to submit proposals earlier this year. The assessments will be carried out starting in January 2017.
In keeping with the Strategic Plan 2011-2021 drafted to establish this new institution, introduced to Sint Maarten by the Constitution on October 10, 2010, a meta-analysis of the period 2011-2016 is commissioned to ensure the Bureau of the Ombudsman meets the legal requirements and the needs of its stakeholders to maintain its authority. The Ombudsman stands for continuous quality improvement in its organizational structure and management process to serve the public of Sint Maarten with the assurance of impartiality, effectiveness and efficiency. Keeping the highest standard of integrity and transparency is required to justify the allocated public funds to the institution, hence the need for both an operational and financial evaluation.
The assessments will indicate the strengths and weaknesses, and include recommendations for improvement of the Bureau. These recommendations will be used to adapt and adjust the institutions strategies, and consequently ensure its authority and relevance for the future in serving the people.