Annual report 2024

Annual report 2024.pdf

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Reflections on 2024 – A Year of Stability for the Court of Audit of St. Eustatius

The year 2024 marked a period of stability for the Court of Audit of St. Eustatius. For the first time, we were able to operate on a permanent budget, following negotiations and amendments approved by the Island Council. This financial stability allowed us to implement key initiatives, including the official issuance of our first Terms of Reference for an outsourced audit. This audit provided valuable operational insights that will inform future budget allocations.

In parallel, we continued developing and refining several internal procedures that contribute to strengthening the institution’s commitment to good governance.

One of the highlights of 2024 was the introduction of the Progress Meter, a concept that originated in response to the exceptional circumstances of 2023 — a year in which no budget was made available for audits. Due to this uncertainty and limited planning space, it was not feasible to conduct a full audit for that year. Nonetheless, the Court of Audit remained committed to its mandate and opted to conduct a light, high-level assessment that could be executed alongside the 2024 audit.

This led to the creation of the Progress Meter Report, which will be issued every two years. Its purpose is to assess whether the recommendations and findings of the Court of Audit have been acknowledged by the Executive Council and subsequently followed up by the Island Council. It is designed as a practical tool to ensure that our audit reports are not only published, but actively used and referenced by both Councils in their policy and oversight responsibilities.

In addition, 2024 was also marked by an increased focus on public relations and stakeholder engagement. During our field visits, we prioritized maintaining direct contact with the community and gaining a deeper understanding of the challenges they face. We also initiated media outreach efforts to raise awareness about the work and value of the Court of Audit.

Finally, 2024 stands out as the first year in which the Court of Audit was able to fully implement its plans in accordance with a complete and approved budget. The strategic objectives formulated for this year were successfully executed, made possible by the financial and institutional stability we have worked to achieve.

As the Court of Audit becomes increasingly embedded in the community and better understood by key stakeholders—particularly the Island Council—a stronger institution is being established for the long term. Although the Court of Audit is still a relatively young institution in St. Eustatius, it is steadily gaining visibility, credibility, and a clear position within the public governance framework.

On behalf of the Court of Audit,

Lay Hing de Kort-YeeChair Court of Audit St. Eustatius