The Parliament of Sint Maarten marked an historical event by hosting the Opening of the Parliamentary Year 2020-2021 in a virtual setting

PHILIPSBURG, Sint Maarten – Tuesday, September 8, 2020 marked the beginning of the Parliamentary Year 2020-2021.

In accordance with article 46 of the Constitution of Sint Maarten, the New Parliamentary Year begins on the second Tuesday of September. On this occasion a Solemn Plenary Session was convened on Tuesday, September 8, 2020 at 10.00am with a speech by His Excellency the Governor, drs. Eugene B. Holiday.

This year’s event marked an historical event for Country Sint Maarten as this was the first Opening Ceremony to be held in a virtual setting, making use of the Zoom platform.

Present in the virtual meeting room were, Members of Parliament, the Prime Minister of Sint Maarten, the Council of Ministers accompanied by the Secretary General of the Council of Ministers, and Chair persons of the High Councils of State. The meeting was aired live via all Parliament’s social media platforms, local radio stations and cable TV.

During his address, His Excellency the Governor of Sint Maarten, drs. Eugene B. Holiday outlined the Government’s immediate priorities to contain the outbreak of the COVID-19 virus; Support schools and the business continuity, prevent layoffs and protect persons that are most vulnerable; Jump start the economy and implement the required reforms; Raise the required financing to offset the lost in revenues and cover budget deficit for the remaining of 2020 and the fiscal year 2021.

The Solemn Public meeting of Parliament was followed by the presentation of the President of Parliament Award. The Hon. President of Parliament, Mr. Rolando Brison announced Mr. Erwin Romney as the 2020 recipient of the President of Parliament Award.

In his acceptance speech, Mr. Romney shared how he had overcome many personal challenges through perseverance, and his faith in God. He encouraged his audience to never give up, as their reward will come. He ended by expressing gratitude to the Victorious Living Foundation, for submitting his application and the Parliament of Sint Maarten for awarding him this prestigious award.

The Parliament of Sint Maarten takes this opportunity to thank all stakeholders, and invited guest for their participation in making the Opening of the Parliamentary Year 2020-2021 a success.