NAPB President Marcus Pantophlet.
PHILIPSBURG--NAPB St Maarten wants the parliamentary debate on the 2027 National Budget to provide clear details on funding for outstanding obligations to justice workers and address serious staffing shortages throughout the justice system.
Following the presentation of the draft 2027 National Budget to Parliament on Tuesday, NAPB President Marcus Pantophlet said the timely presentation must now be followed by serious examination, transparent debate and eventual approval by Parliament.
“Presenting a budget is the beginning of the process, not the final achievement,” Pantophlet said.
Pantophlet said during the 2026 budget debate, government indicated that approximately Cg. 5.1 million would be budgeted in both 2026 and 2027 for financial obligations connected to the long-running placement process. NAPB wants Parliament to confirm whether this funding is clearly and securely included in the 2027 draft budget.
The outstanding retroactive amounts concern the period from October 10, 2010, through December 31, 2022. Pantophlet said the coming debate must provide a clear payment schedule rather than another general promise.
NAPB wants workers and their families to know who will be paid, how much has been reserved, when payments will begin and how long the complete process will take.
NAPB also wants the 2027 budget debate to address staffing shortages across the justice chain. Recent information presented to Parliament indicated that only 591 of 1,096 approved positions within the Ministry of Justice were filled.
Pantophlet said insufficient staffing places additional pressure on officers who report for duty every day, contributes to exhaustion and weakens morale, and can affect the quality and speed of services delivered to the public.
NAPB wants detailed provisions in the 2027 budget for completion of outstanding placements and national decrees, retroactive payments owed to active, retired and former justice workers, adequate insurance, disability and death benefits, and recruitment to fill critical vacancies throughout the justice chain.
NAPB also wants proper equipment, vehicles and reliable communications systems; training and professional development; mental-health and wellness support for frontline personnel; and safe and suitable working conditions at police, immigration, customs and prison facilities.
Pantophlet said government often speaks about fighting crime and strengthening public safety and that the 2027 budget should show how those statements will be financed.
NAPB is calling on Members of Parliament to question government thoroughly during the budget debate and ensure that the final approved budget contains realistic funding, deadlines and accountability measures.
The union said it will study the details carefully and hopes the 2027 budget will translate years of agreements and promises into payments, protection, proper staffing and measurable improvements throughout the justice system.
