Readers may be bit surprised to see Minister Richard Gibson talking about a social “revolution” in today’s paper. After all, Finance Ministers are as a rule more preoccupied with guarding the
national treasury and balancing the budget.
To be sure, he wasn’t propagating any sort of uprising, but merely warning what could be the result if more locals are not given the opportunity to occupy important functions “smoothly by dialogue and evolution.” Still, it’s a rather strong statement especially coming from a public administrator who is not considered a politician.
His argument is that relatively few islanders are to be found in managerial jobs, also compared to similar countries with a tourism economy in the region. He was critical of particularly the hospitality industry for not affording people from St. Maarten upward mobility and urged voluntary action based on planning to achieve this in four years.
Gibson went as far as calling the phenomenon a cancer and said it was time for change. To illustrate how things can be different, he referred to the Government-owned companies.
It must be said, the latter are not generally known as the most cost-effective and efficient operations, while their monopoly or semi-monopoly positions may play a role too. Nevertheless, the Minister’s point is well taken in the sense that many in the private sector could do more to train and guide employees so they may move up to a higher level, instead of depending mostly on already qualified and experienced expatriates to execute certain tasks.
However, their initial education is important as well. Graduates of the island’s schools and institutions of learning need to have the necessary general knowledge, skills and attitude enabling them to grow and carry the added responsibility that tends to go with any kind of promotion.
They must obviously first and foremost prove themselves in whatever they are currently doing and demonstrate not only a willingness, but determination to succeed and constantly improve. Professional advancement requires effort and – much like respect – is usually earned, rather than just demanded.
