Civil Servants to receive portion of back pay
October 8th, 2009
Commissioner Zagers
Civil Servants to receive back pay
On Thursday, October 8th, 2009, Commissioner of Finance Bruce Zagers announced news concerning the payment of the retroactive salary for the civil servants of Saba. Zagers said that he received the notification from the CFT (Financial Supervision Committee) and that State Secretary Ms. Ank Bijleveld had signed the agreement releasing the funds for the years 2003 until 2005. Zagers also said that with special permission from the CFT the payment of the portion for 2008 can also be made available to the civil servants shortly.
On Wednesday, October 7th, Zagers requested an extraordinary Central Committee meeting to discuss the new developments, with special emphasis to the issue of payment for 2008. The Executive Council will send a letter to the CFT requesting approval of this payment before the actual budget amendment would be made. Zagers told GIS, “Before such a move was made, I needed to first discuss it with my colleagues in the Central Committee”.
In 2001 the Executive Council of Saba made a decision to start the process of giving periodic increases to the civil servants. During that time, the Council faced major liquidity problems and were unable to implement said decision. Last year, this old decision was brought to the attention of this Executive Council. Zagers stated that he immediately started the process by obtaining the necessary legal advice and the actual calculations, which proved by be complex and time consuming.
In November last year it was decided that the disbursement of the retroactive payments would be made in early December. Payroll was made and the budget amendments were prepared. The budget amendment was sent to the CFT for approval but based on advice from BZK these payments were to be included into the debt relief for the Netherlands Antilles. Consequently, the amendment was not approved meaning the payment was put on hold. Being that the payroll had already been calculated this meant that the gross amounts appeared on the civil servant payslips. Because of this setback much undue stress and unrest came over the civil servant apparatus.
“During the past nine months a lot of work has been dedicated to resolving this issue. There were numerous procedures that needed to be addressed and put in order to get as far as we are today”, stated Zagers.
An independent accountant, Ernst and Young, was hired to verify the calculations and also evaluate the legality of the process. During their verifications an oversight made during the initial calculation was discovered. Originally the gross amount for the retroactive salaries was over Naf 700,000. Once these calculations were revised the new gross amount was over 1.2 million guilders. This means that most civil servants will receive a higher payment than what was originally expected.
Payment for the years 2006-2007 are still pending, but should become available before the end of the year. Approval for the payment has already been made but the disbursement of the funds is awaiting budget amendments in Holland. The total gross amount which will remain outstanding is Naf. 570,000.
“I fully understand the frustration that the civil servant apparatus with the delay in these payments. However, the proper procedures needed to be followed before approval could be given to the Executive Council. I’d like to remind the community that we are under financial supervision and because of this, things do not exactly go as quickly as we’ve grown accustom to. The delivery of this payment is not affiliated with any type of political strategy as rumours have suggested in regards to the upcoming Central Election”, stated Commissioner Zagers.
On Wednesday Zagers received a positive update from the CFT and immediately requested the Central Committee meeting to discuss the new development. On Thursday, Zagers got a “green light” from the CFT and immediately communicated this decision to the Finance Department so that they can start preparing new payroll calculations.
“I fully acknowledge that there are many instigators trying to turn the civil servant apparatus against this Administration because this payment was delayed. However, the fact remains that this has been a major priority for the Executive Council since last year when the 2001 Decision was brought to our attention. The rights of civil servants have always been a priority for this Administration.”
In the previous two years, all outstanding cost of living adjustments were paid including the recent ones. Vacation allowance is now being paid on-time and most importantly a decision made in 2001 was resurrected and put on a high-priority to be solved. Although the back payment was delayed, all civil servants were placed in their correct scales as of January 1st, 2009 and without any kind of job-performance evaluations.
“The persons whom have tried tirelessly to instil a lack of faith in this administration amongst the civil servants have failed to understand the process and what the Executive Council has been able to accomplish for the civil servants for the past two years”, stated Zagers
In closing, Zagers went on to say that civil servants can expect payment to be made before the end of October. The total gross amount which will be paid for the years 2003-2005 & 2008 is NAF. 706,140. The remainder for 2006 and 2007 will hopefully be forthcoming before the end of the year. Commissioner Zagers stated, “On behalf of the Executive Council, we would like to graciously thank all parties involved, namely, the Finance Department, Personnel Department, CFT, Ernst & Young, and the Dutch Government.”
SOURCE: Saba Government Information Services
Saba’s International Coastal Cleanup Day Activities a Success
October 1st, 2009
Cleanup Participants
Trash littering our beaches and choking our ecosystems is a threat to wildlife, our coastal economies, and ultimately to the ability of the ocean to sustain us.
For many years, Saba has participated in the International Coastal Cleanup, the largest yearly volunteer effort of it’s kind. The event was initiated 24 years ago by the Ocean Conservancy, and this year again hundreds of thousands of volunteers in over 100 countries were hitting their local beaches, lakes, rivers and waterways, spending a few hours removing trash and debris from coastlines, keeping track of every piece of trash they found. The data is being submitted to Ocean Conservancy, which uses that data to produce the world’s only annual country-by-country, sate-by-state index of the problem of marine debris. The report is shared with the public, industry, and government officials as we work together to find solutions to the problem of marine debris.
Armed with knowledge about the most prevalent components of marine debris, elected officials can make informed policy decisions, community leaders can tailor and expand recycling and other trash-reduction programs, corporate decision makers can improve technology and reduce packaging, and individuals can recycle, reuse, or properly dispose of trash to keep these items out of the ocean in the first place.
On September 26th, 2009, organized by the Saba Conservation Foundation (SCF) in collaboration with the Island Government and the Burendag Committee, 4 sites were targeted: The Ladder, Spring Bay and Fort Bay for an underwater cleaning. Additionally, Burendag participants beautified Wells Bay with the placement of a picnic table, planted additional coconut trees, started a public BBQ area and upgraded playground equipment at the museum grounds.
In Fort Bay, 11 divers from Saba Divers, Saba Deep and Sea Saba, SCF and STENAPA staff/volunteers, collected approximately 20 bags of garbage from the harbor bottom and 4 onshore Harbor Office volunteers pulled up debris, including tires, boat engines and large wooden planks, which had been ripped from the harbor walls by boats and storms.
At The Ladder, 28 children and 9 adults cleaned the trail and took the garbage bags, which contained a vast amount of plastic bottles to the beach area, where Saba Sea Rescue took over the bags and transported them to Fort Bay. Approximately 10 bags of garbage were piled up, not including the 3 bicycle frames, various galvanized sheeting and other large objects.
The most notable effort took place at Spring Bay, where only 5 children and 4 adults, after an exhausting hike in the blazing sun, collected an amazing amount of 110 bags of garbage, consisting of about 1,500 plastic bottles, 300 left shoes, 3 right shoes and various large items.
The Island Government provided school busses for the transportation of the volunteers, garbage bags and additional garbage truck collections at the sites. Local businesses were also very supportive and sponsored refreshments and ice. The A. M. Edwards Medical Center donated gloves for all participants.
After the event, all participants were invited to Burendag at the Eugenius Johnson Community Center in Windwardside for food, fun and games.
SOURCE: Saba Conservation Foundation
Executive Council meets with new SBA Board
October 1st, 2009
Recently the Saba Business Association met with the Executive Council of Saba. During this meeting the SBA was given the opportunity to introduce their new Board, consisting of Claire Nuyens, Sophie van Lint, Wolfgang Tooten, and Aleida Heilbron.
The SBA expressed their desire to have closer communication with the Government in regards to constitutional reform as well as issues of Chamber of Commerce, tax structure, and any relevant business issues. Furthermore, the SBA offered expertise in certain areas to work along with the Executive Council.
This year the SBA is taking on the task of spearheading the Christmas Lighting Project. Formerly, every village use to have their own lights along the roads. The SBA plans on organizing and purchasing lightening with assistance from the Government.
Commissioner Johnson had previously met with the sub committees of the SBA concerning issues of tourism. Johnson expressed to the SBA that he enjoyed working with the sub-committees since it is often more efficient when dealing with direct issues. In regards to the sub-committees Johnson stated, “I like the direct contact with stakeholders in their particular industry”
Wolfgang Tooten of the SBA stated to GIS, “The meeting was very positive and I feel it is an improvement on the working relationship between the SBA and the Government. The SBA exists to help Saba and I hope we can have more accomplishments within the community in the near future”
Photo Caption: (LtoR) Bruce Zagers, Wolfgang Tooten, Sophie van Lint, Menno van der Velde, Jonathan Johnson, Aleida Heilbrong, Claire Nuyens, & Chris Johnson
Plans are underway for Saba’s 34th Saba Day
September 25th, 2009
Subject: Plans are underway for Saba’s 34th Saba Day
September 25, 2009 (SGIS) – The Bottom, Saba:
This year Saba Day will be celebrating its 34th Anniversary with a reception and diverse entertainment for the weekend. An official ceremony will be held on December 4th, 2009 and as well as a reception for the general public.
Recently, Commissioner of Culture Bruce Zagers met with President of the Saba Cultural Foundation Lisa Hassell to discuss how the plans for Saba Day are progressing. This year the Government will be handling the official part of Saba Day such as the mass, hoisting of the flag, cultural dances, as well as speeches and awards handed out by the Commissioner of Culture. Following the ceremony a reception is being held for dignitaries as and the general public.
The Saba Cultural Foundation has been tasked with hosting the cultural booths along the Matthew Levenstone Road, bringing in entertainment, the Annual Wahoo Tournament, target shooting, and working with other Foundations to hold activities for children.
The Wahoo Tournament will be held Saturday and Sunday on December 5th and 6th. The Foundation elicited that they are looking forward to participation from the local islands to make it another Grand event.
Currently, the Foundation has set an outline and is sending out letters to all stakeholders involved in Saba Day. Lisa Hassell stated to GIS, “As a Foundation we look forward to working closely with outside organizations to make this year another success”.
Commissioner Zagers is urging local businesses and community to come forward in helping make this year a memorable as well. “I hope to see everyone showing their patriotism while coming out to support Saba Day. Plans are well underway and people can expect another fulfilled event this year.” stated Zagers.
Source: Saba Government Information Services – gis@sabagov.com
Photo caption: Lisa Hassell and Bruce Zagers
Versteek pays final working visit to Saba
September 25th, 2009
Subject: Versteek pays final working visit to Saba
September 25, 2009 (SGIS) – The Bottom, Saba:
Recently, Frans Versteek, Director of USONA, along with his colleagues paid a last working visit to Saba. Versteek has been Director of USONA since its inception and has overseen millions of guilders in projects during his tenure. Reginaldo Doran will be replacing him as the new Director of USONA.
A reception and dinner were held at Queens Gardens in which he gave a speech about his experiences on the Island of Saba. Versteek stated that he enjoyed Saba as being very different from the rest of the Dutch Kingdom. He went on to say that he had a lot of respect for those who have built up this small Island. Lieutenant Governor Jonathan Johnson thanked Mr. Versteek for his service and presented him with a framed photograph of Saba.
During the reception Commissioner of Education Chris Johnson and Mr. Versteek signed the financing agreement for the building of vocational classrooms as well as bus parking garage. This facility will be located next to the secondary school in St. Johns. The amount is approximately 1.25 million guilders which will include the construction, drafting of plans, and supervision.
Commissioner Johnson emphasized that “the lack of a solid technical stream has proven to be a weakness in the level of secondary education on Saba”. Johnson went on to say that, “The last ten years on Saba the schools have moved away from vocational training and are concentrating on academics. This has caused a trickledown effect to the labor market where it is often difficult to find locally trained workers”.
Source: Saba Government Information Services – gis@sabagov.com
Photo caption: Lt. Governor Johnson, Treasure of USONA Luc Steenhorst, Presiden t of USONA Frans Versteek, Commissioner Chris Johnson, Future President of USONA Reginaldo Doran.
Discussions surround Airport Master Plan
September 22nd, 2009
SUBJECT: Discussions surround Airport Master Plan
Recently, the Ministry of Transport and Water Management paid a working visit to Saba. Project Manager of Civil Aviation Ton Franssen and Rene Fracken came to do an inventory of the airport and meet with the local airport Manager, Vincent Hassell. The inventory involved checking on radio, navigation, and weather equipment.
During their visit they were able to meet with Commissioner Johnson on the development of a master plan for the airport. The Island Government was suggested to develop a report based on their vision of a fully-functional airport after which, they will sit down with the Ministry and discuss feasible solutions with experts.
This plan should also account for any changes in Saba’s economy and tourism as well as where the Island will be in twenty years. In general, the plan should also correlate with how Saba plans to develop their tourism and economy.
One serious topic of discussion was the issue of twenty-four hour medical evacuation services. The Ministry confirmed to Commissioner Johnson that their intention is to have something established before 2010. The Ministry appears to be taking local concerns very seriously and plans to address critical issues.
Commissioner Johnson stated to GIS, “We know that our possibilities are limited on Saba because of lack of usable flat land for our airstrip. Regardless, we are expected by our people to provide a service that fits the Island and where we see it heading for the next twenty years”
Photo from Left to Right: Ton Franssen, Chris Johnson, Menno van der Velde & Rene Francken
Underwater Drilling Project
September 21st, 2009
Commissioner Chris Johnson using hammer drill
Underwater Drilling Project
New and upgraded moorings for Saba
For decades, Saba’s diving industry is contributing significantly to the island’s economy. To facilitate the needs of the sector and to avoid anchoring of vessels on the delicate sea bottom substrate, thus inflicting irreparable damage to Saba’s pristine coral reefs, a system of mooring buoys was installed shortly after the formation of the Marine Park in 1989. The regular maintenance of the 33 moorings has since been the responsibility of the Saba Conservation Foundation (SCF).
However, to assure the continued safe use of the mooring system, many of the 20 year old anchor pins urgently needed to be replaced. Hence, the SCF applied for and received funding from De Uitvoeringsorganisatie Stichting Ontwikkeling Nederlandse Antillen (USONA ), in order to purchase the necessary equipment to restore the moorings and install new ones, thereby increasing Saba’s attractiveness as one of the best dive destinations in the Caribbean.
With the co-operation of Dutch Caribbean Nature Alliance (DCNA), St. Eustatius National Parks (STENAPA) and sponsorship from Juliana’s Hotel and Dawn II, a Ranger Exchange and Underwater Drilling Course was set up for early September, with instruction provided by drilling expert and former ranger of St. Maarten’s Nature Foundation, Paul Ellinger. The exercise was attended by staff of the SCF, STENAPA, local dive instructors and other volunteers. Unfortunately it was cut short by the anticipation and necessary preparations for Tropical Storm Erika, but shortly after its passing, the project continued with the assistance from the local dive stores Saba Deep, Sea Saba and Saba Divers.
Quite notably, to show their support and commitment, Commissioner Chris Johnson and Island Secretary Menno van der Velde, actively participated in the project, by installing a new mooring. Impressed by the progress, Commissioner Johnson suggested, that after consulting local fishermen, the SCF should also look into installing moorings for small fishing vessels. The idea received positive responses by the stakeholders and discussions in that regard have commenced. The project is expected to be finalized by the end of the month.
Photo caption: Executive Council Commissioner Chris Johnson on the hammer drill
Government receives upgrades from Xerox; Donation to school
September 8th, 2009
Xerox Techs - Jonah Doram & Orlando Lamp in the upgraded copy-room
Subject: Government receives upgrades from Xerox; Donation to school
Tuesday, September 08, 2009 (SGIS):
Late last week, the Island Government of Saba received a large printer upgrade from Xerox that was purchased under the Dutch Development Fund through USONA. The shipment contained approximately 2 large multifunction copiers, 1 large color, 5 medium office printers, and several other small models. The upgrade will replace all the old mixed technology units that existed beforehand and should save the Government on toner/printing costs.
After delivery of the shipment, Xerox technicians Orlando Lamp and Jonah Doram paid a working visit to the Island to properly setup the units. Offices were setup to efficiently use one large or medium sized printer within their vicinity, as opposed to having several small, expensive inkjet color printers. The upgrade also brought centralized fax capabilities as well as network scanning.
ICT Manager James Wright stated, “This was a much needed and anticipated upgrade for the Government. By having centralized printing, scanning, and faxing we should see a reduction in the costs of paper, maintenance, and toner. Furthermore, the units seem fast and user-friendly which undoubtedly increases our efficiency.”
The Government previously leased a large copier from Xerox, however, with this upgrade they no longer require the lease to continue. Obersi Xerox graciously donated the large copier to the Saba Comprehensive School to be used by the teachers and faculty there. Considering the amount of copies and work that schools produce, this was indeed another upgrade for the schools facilities as well.
Source: Saba Government Information Services – gis@sabagov.com
Photo caption: Xerox Techs – Jonah Doram & Orlando Lamp in the upgraded copy-room
Chris Johnson’s reaction to recent events
September 2nd, 2009
Dear All,
I would first like to thank all those in the media for the great coverage. It was an honor to give the press something new on international press day. One Dutch news article stated that anyone who did not know of Saba before yesterday definitely had a drastic change.
Firstly, I was very glad to see the wide spread response to the actions taken by Saba. I think that we are accepting too many issues at face value. The smaller islands are being told what to do and are always expected to follow without any resistance or opinion.
With regards to the reaction from the Netherlands: I was dismayed to hear so many quickly saying that our intended path is not possible or legal. To those of that opinion, I would like to ask “How was it possible for Aruba to leave the Netherlands Antilles without a complete dismantling of the Country?” The issue of Aruba not only shows that this is possible and has already happened in the Netherlands Antilles just over twenty years ago.
Furthermore, it is also a common stance of the Dutch Government that if we want independence, we can have it by tomorrow. If this is the case – Is this not a form of leaving the country?
The United Nations, of which the Netherlands is a staunch supporter, has declared that there is a right to self determination. What happens to the right of self determination in the case where Saba needs the approval of parliament and the dissolution of the Netherlands Antilles, before it can change its status? If this is the case it then means that the parliament of the Netherlands Antilles has more authority than the United Nations and stands above International law.
Saba’s Government is not opposed to the elections, it is opposed to what these elections represent. They represent a lack of commitment on behalf of the Central Government of the Netherlands Antilles to ever bring about real change in this country. We on Saba enjoy a good election as much as any. However, if our attempt to leave the country of the Netherlands Antilles is not accomplished then we will contest the central elections in full force. We will do this to safeguard the position of the Island and not allow others to take advantage of our parliamentary seat.
During the Round Table Conference of December 15th, 2008 a member of the press asked Prime Minister Balkenende if the referendum outcome on Curacao would have any effect on the trajectory of the BES islands. He stated twice, very clearly, that the results of the referendum on Curacao would have no effect on the BES islands. One of the reasons given by Prime Minister De Jongh-El Hage for the upcoming central elections was because of the close results of the referendum the island would be unstable if elections were not called. This means that indirectly we on Saba are still subjected to the results of the referendum on Curacao. This result in turn will have an effect on the time-frame of the BES islands.
I would like to end by asking – “What is to happen to all the Islands if we have a new Central Government in January which comes in with a statement as part of their Governing accord saying that it is not in agreement with dismantling and they intend on keeping the Netherlands Antilles together as a Country for their Governing period? What happens to our rights of self determination then?
Best Regards from the highest point in the Kingdom of the Netherlands.
Sincerely,
Chris Johnson
Commissioner of Constitutional Affairs
Island Government of Saba
Saba’s intended secession from the Netherlands Antilles
September 1st, 2009
Mr. Henk Kamp receiving letter from Commissioners Chris Johnson and Bruce Zagers
[Download Full PDF Letter]
Excerpt from the Letter:
To His Excellency
Prime Minister Jan-Peter Balkenende
Binnenhof19
2500 EA The Hague
Nederland
Fax:0031-70-365-4174
Your number (letter): Your letter of: Our number: 1145/09
Subject : Intention of Secession from the Netherlands Antilles for the Island Territory
of Saba.
Total pages : 3
Your Excellency;
Saba, September 1,2009
It is with a sense of great concern that the government of Saba wishes to approach
your government on the following.
On the island territory of Saba on November 5lh 2004, a referendum was held so that
the people of Saba, using their right of self determination, could express their wishes for a
new relationship within the Kingdom of the Netherlands. This referendum was supervised by
the United Nations. On U.N. instructions the government of Saba revised the options put
forth to the people in order to fall within compliance of international regulations.
An amount of 78% of the eligible voting public of Saba took part in the referendum
wherein a majority of 86% voted in favor of establishing direct ties with The Netherlands. ‘
Following the referendum Saba made compromises with St. Eustatius, Bonaire and The
Netherlands in order to make it easier for the government of The Netherlands to effectuate
the transition from the so-called country the Netherlands Antilles, to a direct relationship with
the Netherlands. This was done in accordance with article 1541 of the Fourth Committee of
the United Nations.
….. Want to read the rest? DOWNLOAD ENTIRE PDF
SOURCE: Saba Government Information Services