PHILIPSBURG, Sint Maarten – Minister of Finance Hiro Shigemoto says that the Social Economic Council (SER) will soon be established, and is looking forward to a close working relationship with all social partners in 2011.
There will be many issues that need to be handled, and a close working relationship between the social partners is a necessity for tranquil relations and an environment for peace, progress and national development.
"Nobody owes Sint Maarten a living. We must work together as a nation in a collective effort in order for our country to continue to prosper.
"I am confident that the SER will play a key role in promoting good industrial relations between workers, employers and government; improving working conditions; and improving productivity for the mutual benefit of workers, employers, and the country.
"I look forward to sitting down with the WICUS/PSU to discuss civil servant issues as well. All parties must have an understanding for each other’s position.
"We must be transparent in our dealings and from there we will be able to resolve any issues based on this mutual understanding," Minister Shigemoto said over the weekend.