PHILIPSBURG/STATIA–Maria Bass, former State Secretary in the Netherlands Antilles, passed away over the weekend. Bass, a tax lawyer, also worked at the Tax Inspectorate on Statia and St. Maarten, and was a member of the first Constitutional Referendum Committee on St. Maarten in 1994.
She was a member and a candidate with the People’s Progressive Alliance (PPA) in 2007.
St. Eustatius Leader of Government Island Councilman Clyde van Putten, together with the then St. Eustatius Alliance party (SEA), nominated Bass in 1999 to serve as member of the Pourier Cabinet. She served from 1999 until 2002, and was responsible for the portfolio of Personnel and Human Resources and Government Reform.
Van Putten said Bass served her country and people with distinction and commitment, always discharging her duties with integrity, diligence, and compassion.
“Maria was a serious and no-nonsense person and administrator, who always demanded excellence and accountability from those whom she worked with,” he said.
Van Putten extended his most profound condolences to her family and her many colleagues and friends, who worked with her over the years in St. Maarten, St. Eustatius, and elsewhere, and prays that they may find strength and comfort in dealing with this loss.
The Government of St. Eustatius will send a delegation to Bass’ funeral, once funeral arrangements are known.
PPA leader, former Member of Parliament Gracita Arrindell said of Bass: “Gently mannered, yet firm in her convictions when it came to executing her responsibilities. She was a very pleasant and faithful woman to have as a friend. I am very grateful for Maria’s friendship and trust.”
Arrindell added, “We cannot imagine the heartache of her family, close friends and colleagues with the loss of this beautiful lady, inside and out. A beautiful flower she will remain in our hearts and in our memories.”
Source: The Daily Herald https://www.thedailyherald.sx/islands/65430-maria-bass-passes-away
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