Historical overview of the Department
The Department of Sports, established as a section within the former Department of Youth and Sports Affairs within the Ministry of Education, Culture, Youth and Sports, was formalized by the Council of Ministers decision MR160811 and Landsbesluit of January 6, 2021 (AB 2021, no.02). Prior to this establishment, the Department developed its 10-year action plan that highlights 5 main objectives which are further worked out utilizing keywords into subgoals and outcomes. Following its establishment as a distinct section, the Department of Sports embarked on a journey to further develop and implement sports policies, manage sports facilities, and promote physical activities across St. Maarten in line with its action plan and the mandate of the Department. Recognizing the profound impact of sport on individual well-being, the Department is dedicated to guiding decision-making in the realms of sport and physical recreation throughout the island.
Activities based on Regulation
The government of Sint Maarten is mandated by article 21 of the constitution to: “take steps to promote the health of the population”, and “create conditions for social and cultural development and leisure activities for the preservation of cultural heritage”. To do this, the Department of Sports is mandated by article 13a of the Organiestatie Besluit ECYS (Sint Maarten Government, 2021) to:
- advising the government on the allocation of resources based on research, progress reports and forecasts from the program organizations;
- ensuring policy, legislation and regulations regarding sports matters, and supervising their implementation; promoting the well-being of all members of society through sport;
- promoting the principle of equality through education, culture and sport;
- promoting close community ties, team spirit, a sense of responsibility and discipline by supporting sports events;
- promoting the creation and maintenance of optimal facilities for sports and recreation.
Vision
The vision of the Department of Sports is to foster a healthier and active society.
Mission
Our mission is to activate citizens through sport and movement amongst all segments of society to enhance the overall health and well-being of the nation.
Objectives
Strategic Development Objectives for Sports as set forth in the Ministry of Education, Culture, Youth & Sports Strategic Plan 2016-2026;
- Facilitate the required sport environment, infrastructure, facilities and resources in accordance with the set (inter)national qualitative standards.
- Facilitate initiatives to ensure that all citizens of Sint Maarten have the opportunity to participate in recreational sports.
- Stimulate the integration of physical education, sports and nutrition in the educational curriculum.
- Stimulate an increase of the impact of sports on the economic growth of Sint Maarten.
- Facilitate initiatives to ensure Sint Maarten has top athletes that represent Sint Maarten internationally.