Philipsburg, Sint Maarten — Member of Parliament Dimar Labega is calling for urgent action to address the ongoing decline in public‑sector human capacity, despite record increases in funding for human‑resource development.
Between 2024 and 2026, allocations for HR programs have risen, however human capacity has declined. MP Labega says this trend points to a deeper structural problem. The under‑resourcing of the very departments responsible for managing the government’s workforce.
“We’ve invested millions into HR reform, training, and incentives, but the results are not visible,” MP Labega stated. “The P&O departments must be fully staffed and empowered first. Once they function effectively, every other ministry will benefit.”
MP Labega also emphasized that reviewing civil‑servant salaries should form part of the strategy. While salary increases would raise expenditure, a fully staffed and motivated workforce would enhance government efficiency and service delivery — increasing the volume of service fees and tax compliance. These improvements could offset and even surpass the cost of salary adjustments, turning compensation reform into a strategic investment in human capital rather than a fiscal burden.
“When we pay civil servants fairly and equip them properly, we don’t just spend — we earn,” MP Labega added. “A strong, motivated workforce drives efficiency, compliance, and service growth, which in turn strengthens public finances.”
He further noted that competitive salaries could help attract Sint Maarten’s students and professionals abroad to return home, bringing back valuable skills and experience to strengthen the island’s institutions. “Our young people want to come back and build Sint Maarten,” MP Labega emphasized. “But right now, low entry-level salaries and skyrocketing costs for groceries and housing are locking them out.
“We lose too many talented young people to overseas opportunities,” MP Labega said. “If we make public‑sector careers attractive again, we can bring our students back and rebuild the foundation of our nation’s workforce.”
The proposal forms part of MP Labega’s ongoing efforts to build institutional resilience and ensure that public‑sector investments translate into tangible improvements for citizens.
