MP Francisco Lacroes Questions Protection of Whistleblowers Within the Ministry of VSA – StMaartenNews.com – News Views Reviews

Philipsburg, Sint Maarten – Member of Parliament Francisco Lacroes is calling on Prime Minister Dr. Luc Mercelina, in his role as Acting Minister of VSA, to clearly explain what protections are being put in place for civil servants and other individuals within the Ministry who raised concerns about actions linked to the Prime Minister.

According to MP Lacroes, this issue is not about politics or personalities, but about protecting the integrity of Government and ensuring that public servants can do their jobs without fear. “People working within Government should never have to choose between doing the right thing and protecting their careers,” Lacroes said. “If individuals came forward with concerns, gave professional advice, or reported what they believed were irregularities, they deserve to know they will be protected.” 

The Member of Parliament noted that over the past weeks, there have been public discussions involving civil servants, management staff, advisors, and others within the Ministry who reportedly raised concerns regarding matters that have now become public. During the meeting in Parliament MP Lacroes mentioned that it would be wise for the Prime Minister Dr. Luc Mercelina and the other council of Ministers to appoint an other minister to overlook the Ministry of VSA until a new minister is appointed.

Lacroes said the central question is whether those individuals can continue to perform their duties freely and professionally now that the Prime Minister is the acting Minister responsible for the same Ministry.

“Whether people agree with the concerns that were raised is beside the point,” he stated. “The real issue is whether public servants feel safe to speak honestly, provide professional advice, and report concerns without fear of retaliation, pressure, or damage to their careers.”

According to Lacroes, the situation creates a serious perception issue that Government cannot ignore.

“When individuals report concerns involving someone who later becomes the person directly in charge of that Ministry, the public naturally wants to know what safeguards exist to prevent any form of retaliation — whether real or perceived.”

The MP also questioned whether any independent oversight mechanisms will be put in place during this period to ensure transparency and public confidence.

“For years, Sint Maarten has spoken about strengthening integrity policies and whistleblower protections. This is the moment for Government to show that those principles are more than just talking points.”

Lacroes emphasized that many public servants remain silent because they fear the consequences of speaking up.

“Too many people are afraid that raising concerns could negatively affect their jobs, their relationships at work, or their future opportunities. That fear creates a culture of silence, and a culture of silence weakens Government.”

He added that if Sint Maarten truly wants transparent and accountable governance, then people must feel safe reporting concerns through the proper channels.

MP Lacroes is therefore urging the Prime Minister to publicly outline what measures will be taken to protect civil servants, advisors, management personnel, and anyone else who may have provided information related to the ongoing discussions surrounding the Ministry.

“The public deserves assurance that no one will be targeted, intimidated, disadvantaged, or treated differently simply for carrying out their professional responsibilities or speaking up in good faith.”

Lacroes concluded by stressing that protecting whistleblowers is ultimately about protecting democracy and public trust.

“If people believe there are consequences for speaking up, then future concerns may never be reported. That would hurt not only Government, but the people of Sint Maarten as a whole. Protecting those who come forward in good faith is essential if we want accountability, transparency, and trust in public office.”

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