Complaints and Objections

How to File a Complaint with the Government of Sint Eustatius

The Government of Sint Eustatius is committed to providing high-quality services to the public. If you have a complaint about how a government department or official has treated you, you have the right to report it.

What Is a Complaint?

A complaint is a formal expression of dissatisfaction regarding a decision, action, or lack of action by the government, an employee, or a representative acting on behalf of the government.

The following are not considered complaints:

• Requests for information or clarification
• Suggestions or feedback
• Legal disputes (these should be addressed in court)

How to Submit a Complaint

You must submit your complaint in writing (in English or Dutch) via one of the following methods:

Email

Send your complaint to office.island.secretary@statiagov.com, addressed to the Executive Council.

Letter

Address your complaint to the Executive Council and submit it to the secretary at the front desk at Van Tonningenweg #4.

Your complaint must include:

• Your name and address
• The date
• A clear description of the issue

What Happens After You Submit a Complaint?

1. Acknowledgement – You will receive confirmation, including a reference number, that your complaint has been received.
2. Review by the Complaints Committee – A panel of three officials, independent of the issue raised, will investigate your complaint.
3. Additional information – You may be contacted for more details, and if necessary, invited for an interview.
4. Recommendation – The panel will formulate a report and send their advice to the Executive Council.
5. Resolution – The Executive Council will send you a letter with the findings of the investigation. The final decision will be communicated to you.

How Long Does It Take?

Complaints are generally resolved within 10 weeks. In some cases, processing may take up to 14 weeks—you will be informed if this is the case.

Complaints That Will Not Be Processed

The following types of complaints will not be processed:

• Complaints that are more than one year old
• Complaints already being handled by the court
• Complaints related to private businesses or individuals (these should be addressed directly with them)

What If You Are Not Satisfied?

All complaints are communicated to the National Ombudsman. However, if you are unhappy with the decision of the Executive Council, you may contact the National Ombudsman to review your case.