The initiative to have an intra-ministerial workgroup identify revenue-generating opportunities (see related story) is interesting. The words “potential” and “possible” indicate any impact on society will be considered, but new – paid – services as well as increasing the existing fee structure were mentioned.
There is in principle nothing wrong with such an effort. Having a small number of key officials from the seven ministries combine forces makes sense, because it promotes a comprehensive yet efficient approach.
However, all this may never exclude meaningful consultations regarding any decisions with major consequences. The latter can occur via Parliament, the Advisory Council, Social Economic Council SER and representatives of both employers and workers.
Another matter of concern is whether the workgroup’s expected proposals to create additional income will come on top of reforms in the so-called “country package” which have a similar effect. At the end of the day, it is the private sector and general public that must produce whatever additional financial means government wants to earn.
Getting more out of guests is one alternative, but with the tourism economy’s recovery still vulnerable, that too has its limits. Significantly raising the cost of visiting, living and/or doing business at this point could even backfire.
United St. Maarten Party (US Party) leader Pamela Gordon Carty argued on last Thursday’s opinion pages that too much pressure on the local business community will be detrimental to the country. The current governing coalition would do well to take note.
