PHILIPSBURG--Ombudsman Nilda Arduin had requested all outgoing ministers to provide her with a status update on the implementation of recommendations issued by her from 2011 to 2013, prior to the change of the guard in the Council of Ministers on October 11.
Considering that all parties involved, including the bureau, had four years to get acquainted with the new institutions of the country, the Ombudsman will step up investigations and compliance with recommendations issued to government to better serve the needs and interests of the people.
Reports will be regularly published on the website of the Bureau, and Parliament addressed when ministers fail to respond adequately in executing their Ministerial responsibility in accordance with the law.
The Ombudsman and her team are committed to continue to execute their role in a responsible manner as provided for by law. Self-assessment is required to serve the community better. Reason why a survey among the public and government has been commissioned to J.S. Consulting Services, to improve the operations of the Bureau for greater results and effectiveness in protecting the rights of the citizens in the coming years.
Leading up to the August 29 Parliamentary Elections, the bureau held a special information session for aspiring Members of Parliament and prospective Ministers about the role of Parliament and the Council of Ministers in relation to the Ombudsman as provided for in the Constitution. Boards of all political parties and candidates on their slates vying for a position in Parliament were invited to the session.
The role of the Members of Parliament as the trustees of the people and supervisors of the Ministers, as well as the Ministerial responsibility for the day-to-day operation of the business of the people, were highlighted.
