PHILIPSBURG--Prime Minister Sarah Wescot-Williams underscored on Friday the importance of political accountability and of impartiality in the work of National Security Service St. Maarten VDSM.

She said that as sensitive as the services were, there must be political accountability and there never should be even the slightest semblance of partiality or bias against anyone or any group.

The Prime Minister was speaking at the official opening of VDSM's offices at Harbour View Executive Center in Philipsburg Friday.

She stressed, "If national security is at stake, prevention is better than cure," and explained that "no stone was left unturned" in the installing of VDSM and in striving to protect local democratic institutions.

VDSM head James Richardson and Quartermaster Aad de Vries also made brief addresses before the traditional and symbolic cutting of the ribbon to officially declare open the new offices.

Richardson, in explaining the importance of the organisation, which was established in the formation of Country St. Maarten on October 10, 2010, elaborated on its primary focus points: investigating persons or groups who pose a threat to the legitimacy of democracy on the island and the integrity of government; providing background checks in relation to positions of confidentiality; and, providing advice to the critical infrastructure as it relates to national security.

VDSM has an oversight committee comprising two judges and one member from the Council of State charged with monitoring and evaluating VDSM's activities. This committee provides checks and balances to VDSM's operations. Alongside daily tasks department personnel are said to be working diligently on revising policy, drafting legislation and transitioning into a complete organisation.

Governor Eugene Holiday, Member of Parliament Roy Marlin and members of the police management team were among some of the invited guests at yesterday's function. Attendees were allowed to tour the facilities. However, indoor photography was prohibited.

The Department of Communication DComm will air a special broadcast of the official opening that includes a pre-recorded interview with Richardson on the initiation, tasks and other general topics regarding VDSM, which is part of the Ministry of General Affairs that falls under the Prime Minister.

The special will air on St. Maarten Cable TV Channel 15 on Monday starting at 7:00pm.