Says don’t play politics with the people’s business
Minister of Public Housing, Environment, Spatial Planning and Infrastructure (Ministry VROMI) Hon. Maurice Lake says he has already been in contact with NV GEBE Supervisory Board and Management regarding the issues that concern the people of Sint Maarten such as the lowering of utility rates that would provide consumers with more spending power.
Minister Lake added that the Council of Ministers last week Tuesday, February 11, discussed the parliamentary motion and how to proceed forward.
"I take the people’s business serious! I am not into politicking and playing games, I have a job to do. The motion from the House of Parliament was handled last week Tuesday by the Council.
"Last week Friday, February 14 I received a letter from the Democratic Party parliamentary faction via the President of Parliament seeking information with respect to the motion. NV GEBE has been asked to work on a number of things for the people, our seniors, fuel clause, alternative energy, completion of the energy policy and street lights management agreement etc. The actions to be taken must be sustainable and not a one-off quick fix.
"I won’t play politics with the people’s business. NV GEBE will come with a plan of action on what will be done within the shortest period of time. I like the initiative taken by Member of Parliament Hon. Roy Marlin with respect to GEBE, but I can assure the MP and Parliament that this matter also has my full attention; all the issues are being addressed.
"I fully support bringing relief to the people and the business community, but a process must be followed according to the procedures and good governance including good corporate governance.
"Let’s focus on getting the St. Maarten Medical Center moving since financing to the tune of Naf.30 million has been secured. I am ready to sign off on the building permits.
"The people want quality health care and improvement in our basic health care system. I am ready to move on this to get our new hospital off the ground and moving upward block by block. At the end of the day it’s all about getting the job done in the interests of the people," Minister Hon. Maurice Lake said on Monday.
PHOTO CUTLINE: Minister Hon. Maurice Lake.