Dear Source:
Thank you Michael Monagle for your reminder to all citizens that they must offer input to our new Constitutional Convention Delegates who are there to create a new document to help us more successfully govern our Islands. My guess, is that many of those in long-standing positions of power would prefer that little change. Change means putting new rules in place in our political system that put the people back in control; and more importantly, make those voted into power accountable to the people they serve. Many of us feel discouraged with our present, outdated system of Government-build on an outdated Organic Act. Our hope rests on this new Constitution and it's content.
As a St. Johnian, I see little evidence that we are ever heard; that we have a voice in identifying our problems; suggesting solutions or are a part of the process to change that which desperately needs changing. The present "Senator-at-Large" position- split between 3 Islands- does not represent our Island in any manner. Decisions for us are made on another Island by many who are not familiar with St. John or it's basic community needs. Fifteen full time Senators for a population of 110,000. people is simply "too many cooks in the kitchen" to get anything accomplished…evident by the gains we make… which are very few. Perhaps this is why we seem to accomplish so little? These Senators are our law makers. We have way too many laws already with being few being enforced. Then there is the ridiculous cost to the tax payer for these numerous salaries…better spent on our broken infrastructure; our Police Dept.; schools and the many youth needs in our communities.
The biggest concern that needs to be discussed and ensured, within our Delegation, is the great need for transparency and openness in Government. Many of the so-called "rumors" that occur now is because there has rarely been enough communication, accountability or transparency in past Government Administrations. To our present Gov. de Jongh's credit, that appears to be changing through his Leadership. There are stronger laws that must be passed in the future so that we can begin the process of trusting the system that represent us as people. This is presently sorely missing.
Look at the passing of Bill #6905 with the legislature giving themselves a raise-all done underhandedly and without the people's knowledge. The same with the Legislative passing of the St. John Sirenusa project. Building laws were blatantly ignored by our lawmakers-the Senators-with the many and very loud citizens voices clearly ignored.
There is simply too many decisions made behind closed doors within our Legislative Branch of government and most likely as well in many important closed Committee and Board Meetings. This is not conducive to true representation of the people for the people. It hinders us as a Territory in solving our many problems and moving forward. Trust is the basis of all relationships. The government and the people have an important relationship that must be nurtured through trust as well. Trust will only grow with open, transparent government. Both freedom of the press as well as the right to voice concerns openly through free speech, as guaranteed by our Constitution must be upheld. We must know all of the facts on why decisions are made and by whom. It is in this criteria that we decide on who is truly representing the good of "the people"- not special interest groups. Freedom of information and access to all Government areas is one of the keys in ensuring our Islands can move forward.
Bonny Corbeil
St. John
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