PHILIPSBURG……The Ombudsman organized its first Open House on January 29th 2015 to bring the awareness of the role and tasks of the Ombudsman, as well as to introduce the staff of the Bureau to the public.
The Open House is termed a “great success” by both the Ombudsman and visitors, especially among the youths. Approximately 130 persons attended the Open House during the day between 10:00 am and 5:00 pm. People left informed on not only the tasks and role of the Ombudsman, but also regarding our Constitution, the constitutional organization of the country; the role of Parliament, the Council of Ministers and ultimately the role of the citizens as shareholders of the company called Country Sint Maarten.
Visitors to the Open House were introduced to the Website of the Ombudsman (www.ombudsman.sx) and shown how to file a complaint online. The face book (ombudsman sint maarten) presentation was especially interested to the youth, who was surprised to know that the Ombudsman has a face book page. The Ombudsman applauds the attendance of the Sundial School, MPC, the St Dominic High School and Interact, accompanied by their teachers.
Presentation
The presentation by the Ombudsman was dubbed interesting and very informative. Comparing the country to a business with the shareholders, being the citizens/people of Country Sint Maarten; Parliament associated with the appointed Supervisory board or Board of Trustees, and the Ministers the Managers of the company Sint Maarten, was deemed to be a fresh look and setting the stage for a mind shift of the people. The duty and responsibility of the Board of Trustees to supervise the Managers is no different from the role of Parliament to supervise and monitor the Ministers and the administration.
Role of the Ombudsman
The role of the Ombudsman in relation to Parliament and the Council of Ministers as provided by law was also discussed.
The visitors were requested to complete a short survey on their experience at the Open House, to assist the Ombudsman in the evaluation of the event. The public in general is requested to give suggestions of different ways the Ombudsman can use to promote the awareness among the people about their rights and obligations, and the services of the Ombudsman.
Thanks to the Public
The Ombudsman thanks the public who attended the Open House, especially the students. The interest and enthusiasm shown in the Institution by thequestions and remarks during the presentation motivates the staff to continue to improve the serve to the public.
The Ombudsman listens, investigates and recommends government to act on the concerns of the people!!!
The Ombudsman is the Voice and Protector of the People
