Articles

Not so 4 Years ago he was as a senior employee considered to be the specialist on Study financing. He was some sort of an acting head of study financing, although then it was not a department on its own.
He was good in bossing around the people that worked under his supervision in study financing and he could very well bully them. With the start of Country Sint Maarten he climbed the ladder and became the policy advisor to his Minister of Education, Culture, Youth and Sports.
The department Study Financing was also created and he brought a friend in as acting Head Study Financing, a position he thought to keep reserved for himself. So the acting head would be some sort of a caretaker for him. In the meantime one of his former assistant who was working for so many years already in Study Financing was at last appointed in the vacant position of senior employee of the Department of Study Financing, because in Study Financing they had planned two senior employees.
And from out of the Cabinet of the Minister he was bossing the Department of Study Financing, which as said he considered his baby and of which he considered himself to be the real Head of Study Financing, temporarily borrowed out to the Cabinet of the Minister.
But as we all know, in politics nothing is certain. In 2011 we had the famous so called 'carnival coupe' which send the UP lead government home. We got a new Minister of Education, Culture, Youth and Sports. So the political advisor was sent back to the department of Study financing, while the then acting head of Study Financing became the new Policy advisor to the new Minister of Education, Culture, Youth and Sports. And this was the first turning of the Carousel, some people calls it 'pay back time.'
He was then told that he would get an appointment as acting Head Study Financing, with which he really wasn't so pleased with, because as said he reserved for himself the position of Head of Study Financing.
But he didn't want to make too much waives and settled for acting Head.
The Carousel made a new spin, 'pay back time'.
The Minister for her reasons passed him and appointed her, the second newly appointed senior employee as acting Head of Study Financing.
And the newly appointed policy advisor to the Minister, the former first formally appointed acting Head of Study Financing, was now bossing the Department of Study Financing from out of the Cabinet of the Minister. The roles were turned around. Instead of he being bossed around, he was now doing the bossing around. The former policy advisor of the Minister was now getting a hard time from his friend he brought to Study Financing. Dogs eat dogs.
And now on the first of February 2013 the Carousel is making its third spin, 'pay back time'.
The Minister of Education, Culture, Youth and Sports decided to take back the temporarily appointed acting Head of Study Financing and to place the Department under the another Department Student Support Services, headed by one former female assistant of Study Financing.
So now the Department within 28 months knows its fourth acting Head and of which two former acting Heads remain working in the Department of Study Financing.
And there are several 'old bones to be picked' in the Department of Study Financing.
I don't believe this is good for the productivity of the Department of Study Financing and I think it to be very bad management by the Minister of Education, Culture, Youth and Sports.
You don't manage a department on such way, creating and feeding all kind of internal conflicts which ultimately don't help the Students for who we suppose to be working for and to defend their interest.
I still hope that reason gets a new chance and this decision is thought over again. It's never too late to let sound reasoning preferred. And believe me I know what I'm talking about.

Name Withheld Upon Author's Request

With much satisfaction many of us applaud the news of the Immigration and Labor controls soon to start on business establishments. But what does it all mean? What results will it deliver? But most importantly, will the controls make a difference for the locals who are presently unemployed?
Businesses will be visited by controllers of both departments. The legal status of their employees will be checked but how many illegal workers will actually be found on the job during these controls?

Over the years both employers and illegally working employees have been able to beat the system one way or another with the results being a Grace Period in 2001/2002 and the recently held Brooks Towers Accord (BTA), whereby persons were found residing illegally on the Island for ten years or more. So how are these controls going to be any different from our past experiences?

We all will agree that the efforts being made are positive but one should also consider the effectiveness when taking actions.

In addition to the controls of businesses, would it not be much more effective to have early morning or late afternoon controls of buses taking their many passengers to and from their respective jobs, regular traffic controls of vehicles and their passengers as well as regular controls within the many residential districts and Marine sectors or persons walking along the roads to simply present their documents upon request? Having controls of businesses once in, for instance, every six months will most definitely not prove sufficient to effectively remedy the immigration issues we are being faced with presently.

It is however yet to be seen how this will benefit the unemployed locals and are they willing and able to fill any positions becoming available on short notice. Also interesting to note is if persons, now holding an employment permit under the guarantee of one specific employer will be granted permission to transfer under another employer. Reality is, there are a large number of un-employed foreigners still holding validated permits.

We however must assume that all of these questions and concerns have already been taken into consideration by the Departments concerned. #sxmmovement.

Soualiga Social Movement

"Turn Down the Heat: Why a 4°C Warmer World Must be Avoided," warns we're on track for a 4°C warmer world marked by extreme heat-waves, declining global food stocks, loss of ecosystems and biodiversity, and life-threatening sea level rise. This study was carried out by the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research and Climate Analytics, on behalf of the World Bank. The report, urges "further mitigation action as the best insurance against an uncertain future."

One of the points I missed in the recently presented Governing Program of the National Alliance/Democratic Party/3-Independent Members of Parliament coalition was the issue of climate change.

Erick Fernandes, World Bank Adviser for Climate Change and Natural Resource Management, even today the global climate is changing, and so regions must adapt to in order to maximize their resilience to the changes. Erick Fernandes explains, "Preparing for the disasters of today is the first step in adapting to the disasters of tomorrow."

New report outlines disastrous effects were global temperatures to rise by four degrees. Latin America and Caribbean predicted to be one of the regions most affected by temperature spike. Adapting to changes today will increase the region's resilience to future disasters.

Increased high-intensity cyclones, reduced arable land and the loss of low-lying regions are just some of the possible consequences for Latin America and the Caribbean if global temperatures were to rise 4°C by 2100, according to the new study 'Turning down the Heat.' An increase double that of the internationally recognized 2 degree Celsius target, widely considered being the tipping point after which environmental damage will be irreparable.

Since 1998, the melting ice from the ice fields in Patagonia has contributed to around 2% of the global annual sea level rise. As temperatures rise, this rate is only likely to increase, with the report projecting sea levels to rise between 0.5 -1m by the turn of the next century. Such a rise could do untold

damage on the small, low-lying islands in the Caribbean, contaminating freshwater wetlands, vital for the islands' water supply, and with projected losses totaling US$68.2 billion by 2080, much of which would be borne by the region's tourism industry.

Already one of the Caribbean region's most dangerous meteorological hazards, the frequency of high-intensity tropical cyclones is predicted to increase. Nonetheless some of the countries in the region has embraced the challenge, with many countries implementing innovative and ecologically sound solutions, which live up to their environmental responsibilities.

Currently the World Bank is working with 130 countries worldwide to tackle climate change, doubling its lending for adaptation. US$7.2 billion worth of Climate Investment Funds are now in operation in 48 countries, 14 of which are in Latin America and the Caribbean.

Negotiations late last year on climate change have resulted in a number of significant achievements, which will benefit Small Island developing states.

There were positive developments coming out of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) held in Doha Qatar from November 26 to December 8, progress was made towards the establishment of a mechanism that will address issues relating to loss and damage in developing countries that are particularly vulnerable to the adverse effects of climate change. This will improve the capacity of these countries to adapt to climate change.

Our country has a lot to lose with respect to the impact of climate change, but also much to gain with respect to adaptation. Sint Maarten would be better off preparing today in adapting for climate change disaster in the future. Even though it may look like a humongous task, every beginning starts with the first few steps.

Roddy Heyliger

There is a story of a South African farmer who farmed his rocky land for years, without reward. His life was miserable as he tried to feed his family and sell a few of his crops to the local townspeople. In desperation he finally realized the futility of trying to live off the proceeds of his land so he decided to move on to other opportunities. He then sold his land to a neighbor and moved away, seeking a better life elsewhere. The new owner, while walking his new land noticed something glittering in the water of the stream on the property. Bending down and picking it up he found a diamond! The story goes on to describe how he owned acres of diamonds on his property and became extremely wealthy.

What is the moral of this story you ask? Each of us in our own way are living our lives repeating day after day what we have done the day before. All we need to do is look around us at the opportunities which are waiting for us to discover them.

From my perspective St. Maarten is the farmer who was unable to survive on his land, and was looking for opportunities somewhere else. This is illustrated by the grand plans outlined by Minister Romeo Pantophlet, who proposed the building of four hotels on the island. My first response was regarding the physical or environmental impact this would have. Other than at Maho, where land is available, the Island has lost most of its visual appeal as a result of overbuilding and bad planning. Think salt ponds, cricket, drag racing, and uncontrolled development.

Upon further reflection though, I thought of the thousands of timeshare owners who have left the island, never to return. Here is a diamond worthy of finding. They have left as a direct result of the Government's inability to communicate with or assist the timeshare owners in any meaningful way. Are we welcomed to the island in any way? No! Legislation has been promised for years without any news as to its progress. Have we been asked to participate, as key stakeholders in the legislation? No! Has the government provided any forum for the timeshare owners to communicate their thoughts and concerns? No!

So you ask, why are you timeshare people leaving? Maybe my personal experience will answer the question. I own timeshares in several countries and have never experienced the timeshare owner abuses that I have on St. Maarten. They are too numerous to enumerate here, but suffice it to say that timeshare developers have clearly been given a license to steal from the timeshare owners, and there is no accountability or legislation to protect us. We have never been given a voice to speak or an ear to listen.

We timeshare owners are not hotel guests who come for a week or two and rarely return. We are not cruise passengers who come for a day and spend on taxis, tours and some Front Street businesses. We come for a week or multiple weeks and use the taxis, rental cars, grocery stores, restaurants, Front St. businesses, and tours year after year. We have purchased our rooms at the costs of thousands of dollars each and continue to pay maintenance fees every year. Many of us have established long term personal relationships on the island and feel a strong attachment to St. Maarten.

So in closing, I would challenge those in authority, and those who can influence those in authority, to open your eyes and see that the timeshare owners can be the Diamonds on the Island of St. Maarten. We only need to be discovered and appreciated. We have been here for many years, we just need to be discovered and appreciated for what we bring to the financial and social well being of the island. We are asking to be part of the solution, but need a vehicle by which we can have some input.

P.S.: Another Diamond may appear in the form of unpaid taxes. I have been told that there is a resort on the island that has/had not paid its taxes in years. If true, can there be others?

Jerry Wordhouse
Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

With the various projects mentioned and the other aspects that have been envisioned in the Governing Program, additional human resources will be needed to feed the economy of the country. The growth of a nation's population is a challenge and a longstanding one as well for any developing country. Governments realize that it is critical to strike a right balance in population policies.

Does Country Sint Maarten have a Population Policy? Is it time for us as a country to start thinking about such a policy? Sint Maarten's official population is around 50,000+.

The population of a country impacts the running of the island on a daily basis whether it is health care, pension system, schools, housing, road network, infrastructure, environment etc., you name it, every facet of society is linked and this plays a role in the quality of life as well of the nation.

A country's aim is to build a sustainable population that strengthens our social cohesion, while providing a good living environment for the people of the country, and at the same time maintaining economic vitality.

Some of the challenges facing nations around the globe with respect to their own populations are aging, declining population, and falling birth rates. Countries are examining and addressing the serious consequences of these trends, and looking at policies and programmes to address the consequences so that one can build a sustainable and bright future.

Countries are reviewing the number of new immigrants that come in and the composition of transient non-resident workforce to meet the needs of the country. Some populations are anxious about the pace of change in society especially where it concerns the weakening of social cohesion; friction between the population and some foreigners and new immigrants due to cultural differences.

Other concerns of a population have been foreigners competing for jobs, suppress wages, and effect on the standards of living for some segments of a population.

In some countries, the public is engaged to ensure that all views, aspirations and concerns are considered when taking into account social and economic circumstances and needs of the nation in the development of population policies and strategies leading to a sustainable population vision.

Based on the communities input, a draft policy paper is made that sets out the demographic challenges in order to understand the choices and trade-offs that a nation should make.

As a country of 50,000+ people, has our population reached a turning point? Sint Maarten is a place where people want to come to live and work.

Our country's future dictates an endearing home and an Island of Opportunities for All Sint Maarteners, but this must be based on sound planning and sustainable development in the 21st century.

Roddy Heyliger

What's really going on? Minister Duncan has been proudly parading around his grand ideas, challenging anyone to question their feasibility and relevance but at the same time, his prison seems to need help itself.

It was shocking to hear that only last year, the Governor was handed a 'very bad report' by the European Committee for Prevention and Torture (CPT), on the state of our Prison and Detention facilities. What was done since? I'm pretty sure the report must have mentioned the deplorable conditions at the kitchen of the Pointe Blanche Prison. Why didn't the Minister react then? Maybe he forgot that the Health Inspectorate whom he made Extraordinary police have a job to do and will do that job no matter who is in their way.

What about the opinion article of the Inmates Association? Did that just slip under everybody's noses? The prisoners clearly detailed that they were NOT being treated with the same standards as other prisoners in the free world. Expensive prices in the canteen, being denied early release because of nationality, not being released on their official release dates because many unlawful excuses, overcrowding are just some of the issues the Inmates association mentioned in their release on January 14th this year. The inmates claimed that Minister Duncan policies aim to keep the prisoners locked up in negativity for financial reasons, the approximately ANG 36,000 per day, the ministry receives for the 180 prisoners.

Now with all that, you can't even keep your kitchen clean? #sxmmovement

Soualiga Social Movement

"We contend that for a nation to try to tax itself into prosperity is like a man standing in a bucket and trying to lift himself up by the handle" - Winston Churchill.

The beauty of owning an enterprise or corporation is in the ability to pass on costs to the consumer (passing the "buck"). Both inflation and improper use of taxes is pushing the middle class into poverty. The world's Central Bankers have made it clear that they won't allow defaults to allow for a debt reset but will pursue inflationary policies at the cost of the middle class. Now if we consider some of the statistics being mentioned in America concerning wealth concentration and income distribution we can piece together an interesting story. If the stats are reasonably true, I would suggest one start to simplify their life because there is just no way that the middle class and the poor will ever beat inflation by maintaining their status quo behavior.
The inherent vice of capitalism is the unequal sharing of blessings; the inherent virtue of socialism is the equal sharing of miseries. - Winston Churchill.
One, out of other number variations, of the wealth and income statistics in America goes: "The top 1% own 38.1% of the wealth in the country, the next 4% own 21.3%, and the next 5% own 11.5%. That is to say, the top 10% of the country owns 70.9% of the wealth of this nation. The wealth distribution is more skewed than the income distribution where the top 1% have only 20% of the income." Let us dissect what this means in practice. If 10% of persons in America own 70.9% of the wealth but 99% of persons have 80% of the income, it means as the middle class shrinks, the 10% of persons will start to own more of the income. However, it is the middle class who stimulates the economy as they control most of the income which they use to purchase goods and services. Someone who is already wealthy and gets more wealth, they do not necessarily increase purchasing (as a percentage of income). So they won't necessarily eat more, make more kids, buy more homes, etc. So it behooves me why would any elite be it government or those who control government want the income or purchasing power for the middle class to diminish. Income and thus purchasing ability is attained for most persons through a job or jobs. Fewer jobs mean less income and thus less purchasing power. Less purchasing power means the velocity of money slows and thus the economy as a whole suffers. But if the statement is true that greed has no limits, prepare to either be stressed by overworking to try and survive, or go back to old time principles while simplifying your life and live less stressed.
As mentioned in a prior article, inflation is caused by the "improper "issuance of money/credit in the economy by commercial banks. Some may argue that fiscal policy is more inflationary. I will argue that improper fiscal policies used in the wrong context (e.g. skewed income distribution) compounds inflationary pressures. However, improper issuance of money/credit in the economy is more inflationary than fiscal policies simply because you cannot or it makes little sense to tax money if there is none or very little to tax in the first place. Well what constitutes improper fiscal policies? Let us seek guidance from one of the fore fathers Thomas Edison of America for an answer. Due to space limitations I will only include extracts and I suggest you read the full article from http://www.uhuh.com/unreal/mel.htm. Thomas Edison, America's great inventor, summed up this information in 1921. He said: "Now, as to paper money, so called, everyone knows that paper money is the money of civilized people. The higher you go in civilization the less actual money you see. It is all bills and checks. What are bills and checks? Mere promises and orders. What are they based on? Principally on two sources - human energy and the productive earth. Humanity and the soil - these are the only real bases of money. "Don't allow [the bankers] to confuse you with the cry of 'paper money'. The danger of paper money is precisely the danger of gold - if you get too much it is no good. They say we have all the gold in the world now. Well, what good does it do us? When America gets all the chips in a game the game stops. We would be better off if we had less gold. Indeed, we are trying to get rid of our gold to start something going. But the trade machine is at present jammed. Too much paper money operates the same way. There is just one rule for money, and that is, to have enough to carry all the legitimate trade that is waiting to move. Too little or too much are both bad. But enough to move trade, enough to prevent stagnation on the one hand and not enough to permit speculation on the other hand, is the proper ratio."
As it pertains to taxes an extract from the article states: "When the money supply exceeds the natural resources (excluding products), labor and human services total, a federal tax MUST automatically be levied to reduce the money supply. The balance is critical. A sales tax is fastest and catches tax dodgers. An income tax catches big, fat cats. Both taxes together will probably be most fair and effective. The tax receipts MUST be converted back to the nothing from whence they came. Federal politicians must NEVER spend tax receipts. To do so would dangerously threaten the critical balance between real people and imaginary money." Now you would really need to read the entire article in the link given above to understand why this was stated but one thing has to be considered when the money supply exceeds the natural resources, labor and human services total. That is the concentration of this money supply.

Concentration is measured by the income distribution. If the income distribution shows what is called in statistics a normal bell curve pattern, then applying a tax to help reduce the money supply, if it is too much, makes sense. Unfortunately throughout most of the world the income distribution is not a normal bell shape but it is skewed to the left meaning that there are grave disparities between incomes. Therefore applying a tax or taxes on the wrong group(s) to reduce the money supply can be downright dangerous. An aviation analogy goes: In general aviation there is a general rule that speed is controlled by the throttle setting (like the gas pedal in a car) and the yoke (like the steering wheel in a car) controls height. That is true only beyond a certain speed (velocity). However, below a certain speed (generally called the mushing range), this rule no longer applies but works in reverse i.e. throttle controls height and the yoke controls speed. Therefore, gauging economic theories through a similar thought process would make clear that different theories apply more appropriately depending on the context and circumstances. Apply the wrong theory or theories in the wrong context and circumstances and the economy will die just like a pilot could if he does not know if he is beyond or below the defining speed/velocity and applies the wrong behavior.
Passing the buck stops by the poor and many of the middle class. The more persons who in turn cannot pass the buck do not stand a chance to even finish the race. Just like in the relay running sport, if the relay stick is not passed on, the other team member cannot start his journey. If one team member is not able to pass on the relay stick, the entire team will lose as they will not even be able to complete the race. Such is the same with our economy.

Emilio Kalmera

A "Citizen's Dialogue," is a conversation that engages all Sint Maarteners over a period of time discussing our shared future. The views and ideas presented should lead to the development of programmes that improve the lives of all the people. Individual interests will be taken over by shared national goals and objectives for a common destiny.

Society has been briefly informed about the National Development Plan back in December. His Excellency Governor Eugene Holiday during his New Year's Ball speech spoke called on the nation to be "keepers of the community for a stronger and more robust Sint. Maarten."

The Governor questions: 'How do we plan to fulfil our role as keepers of our community's vision in 2013? The answer will vary from person to person, from family to family and from organization to organization. There will be differences in views and approaches between and within the public and private sectors."

Last week we saw the current coalition Government launch there Governing Program for the period 2012-2014. Political parties also present party programs prior to every election outlining what the party sees as important for the country.

Some countries carry out a "citizen's dialogue." As country Sint Maarten, and in moving forward, there is no better time than the present to start such a national conversation about our future, after two years into country status. Let's set the stage for a "Sint Maarten Conversation," a bottom's up approach with respect to the nation's future national development.

Let's look at the next 20-years. Let the people determine how and where public funds should be spent. The zoning/development plan town hall meetings throughout 2012 brought people out and generated lively discussion with respect to the concerns of the people. Let's have a bottom's up approach with respect to where country Sint Maarten would like to be in 20-years.

These national conversations are not uncommon. It goes beyond party politics and party interests and is about the people's interests, by the people for the people. The people are the ones who own the process as they have a stake in it.

A national conversation engages people from all walks of life through multiple channels. Our country at this point in time in its history has diverse needs and choices within every district along with global challenges that encompass climate change, globalization and technological change.

It is we the people that have the means to shape and create country Sint Maarten's future over the next 20-years. It is we who set the priorities for those who are elected on our behalf to carry out the people's plan of action.

Roddy Heyliger

In the newspapers of January 17, 2013, Minister Romeo Pantophlet announces that one of his plans is to establish St. Maarten's own airline. I must publicly remind the Honorable Minister that St. Maarten already has its own airline; it is called WINAIR and the St. Maarten Government in which Minister Pantophlet is a very important player, is a 92.05% shareholder. I am sure that I speak on behalf of the present WINAIR Board of Directors, the present dynamic WINAIR Management Team and all the 126 proud WINAIR employees known as WINAIRIANS, when I say that I am puzzled to say the least. Last year the Government of St. Maarten designated WINAIR as its National Carrier, so maybe the government and/or the Minister plans to make funds available to grow this airline and simply misspoke. I certainly hope so.

Michael J. Ferrier.
Chairman of the (former) WINAIR Ad-Hoc Committee

With great interest we have been following the ongoing "fight" of Drs. Raymond Jessurun, a representative of various foundations and organizations that are defending the rights of pensioners and elderly. He is a fierce proponent of equal access to health care within the Kingdom of The Netherlands, increase of the monthly pension (AOV) pay out and he draws attention to the social and medical ills our elderly endure.

On the other hand we have our government (Ministry of Health Care, Social Development and Labour) which is trying to cope with the reality of today: An ever increasing and aging population while the costs of health care continue to rise. The problem, as usual, is money. How much can be spent today while at the same time future care of the elderly is being safe guarded?

We will not go into what we think that government should do for the elderly. However, we do agree with Drs. Jessurun that there is room for improvement in many areas when it comes to the care for our elderly. What we want to emphasize on, is the fact that we all hope to grow of age and that one day we will be considered "the elderly". How do we expect our lives to be when we are on pension? What when we become less mobile? What when we fall ill or our bodies simply refuse to do as we would like?

Sometimes it is not the money that you pay to government and what to expect in return from government. Sometimes it is simply about what to expect from the people around you like family, friends and people in your neighbourhood. So, when you pay your dues to government expecting government to cover certain expenses for you, remember this: When you expect a "pay-out" from your surroundings when you become dependent, make sure that you pay your dues to your surroundings today.

Do some shopping for those of age. Give an elderly person a ride to SZV. Help clean someone's home every now and then. Go to the doctor or pharmacy with your elder. Spend some time on the porch and listen to your elder (you might learn a thing or two). Play a game or do something, anything, to be involved. Why? Because that person that you are doing it for that is you tomorrow. Taking care of our elderly is taking care of ourselves. #sxmmovement.

Soualiga Social Movement

A top cardiologist in The Bahamas said the Government must play a leadership role in developing cutting-edge medical tourism, or let a multi-million dollar industry slip away from The Bahamas.

Dr. Conville Brown, a lead cardiologist, who performed Bahamas's first stem cell operation in the latter quarter of 2012, said, if The Bahamas is going to become a hub for medical tourism, individuals must step up and make it a priority before other justifications capitalize on these opportunities.

Brown was reported to have said: "I am prepared to say that it is quite a lucrative and productive market, but it depends how we position ourselves." He added: "The Government needs to determine where it wants to stand. They can exclude and impede, or incentivize and promote. The Bahamas will either thrive or flounder. And so far, I don't think we are thriving."

Okanos Heart Institute, for example, is awaiting final approvals and investing $5 million into a clinic in Grand Bahama. The clinic has taken up the second and third floor of a commercial building and hired well-known physicians from the U.S. to perform treatments.

Indian Cardiologist Dr. Devi Shetty, develop of the Shetty Hospital project in the Cayman Islands, broke ground in August 2012 allowing for site preparation works. This was 16-months after signing an agreement with the Cayman Islands Government to set up a medical tourism hospital in Grand Cayman.

In November they presented their mixed-use planning application for the first phase of a proposed medical tourism facility to Cayman Islands Planning Department officials. Full site work will begin once the planning application has been approved.

The first phase of the project is being erected on 50 acres of land. The area is part of a total 200 acres the developers purchased in 2011 to build a proposed 2000-bed hospital and supporting facilities to be built during the next 15-years which will include assisted-living homes, a biotech research centre and a medical education facility.

The first phase of the project is the creation of a 140—bed tertiary care hospital to be operational in early 2014.

In April 2012, Dr. Shetty partnered with of the United States' largest non-profit healthcare companies, Ascension Health Alliance, to build and manage the proposed hospital. Ascension would provide facilities planning, supply chain management, and biomedical engineering services, while Dr. Shetty's group will run the hospital.

How far is Sint Maarten with its medical tourism plans? Within the past 30 months, interests have been shown by two parties, however plans with one particular investor have moved to an advanced stage. We are now in a New Year and 30-months later, and we should move forward with this development that would further diversify our one-pillar tourism economy and create opportunities for the country.

As Cardiologist Brown said, don't let a multi-million dollar industry slip away from the country.

Roddy Heyliger

Cruelty to animals is the unnecessary and unacceptable suffering or harm inflicted by humans. Mrs. Sandrine Illidge was referred to my family by the local Vet after having worked there for many years. We contracted her services over two years ago and had a monthly standing order for baths and treatments of our four dogs. This was until the afternoon of January 7th, 2013, when my daughter witnessed Sandrine's verbal and physical abuse of my jack russel. No dog is ever thrilled of the idea of a cold bath, therefore on this Monday in January, Sandrine experienced more difficulty than customary perhaps in taking Bibi captive for her monthly bath. She was forced to run around the yard to get a hold of Bibi and when she did get a hold of her oh boy did Sandrine take out her exhaustion on Bibi. With the leash tightly stringed to the railing of the staircase and the collar tightly placed around her neck, with the steel buckle of the leash, Sandrine physically beat Bibi multiple times while verbally abusing our dog with profanity. We knew of Sandrine from church and never knew that she cursed or used such colorful language. We are livid by Sandrine's actions to say the least. The single most negative aspect of Dog Abuse is the psychological effect. For months we witnessed psychological effects in the form of shyness in our two dachshunds but it never dawned on us until now what could have been the result of their new timid behavior. Our dogs now reject being pet or touched and run for cover at the slightest call. Could Sandrine have been abusing our dogs for years during her unsupervised visits? You don't have to be a cop, a lawyer or a judge to fight animal cruelty. All you need is the courage to speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves. We are speaking up for Bibi, Broman, Ziva and Blackie my four dogs that have suffered verbal and physical abuse to the discomfort of Sandrine Illidge.

Fleming Family

Is the use of the "6 month contract" really being abused? If yes, by whom? But most importantly, if yes, how do we, immediately, eliminate such abuse? Before we can continue we must first understand what a contract really is, which is quite simple: A contract is "An agreement between two or more parties, especially one that is written and enforceable by law."

Is it fair to say that the "outcry" against the "abuse" of the "6 month contract" is not geared, so much, towards the contents as is the duration, bringing with it several negative consequences, such a contract holds for "primarily" the employee? Is it also fair to say that every business owner expects to enjoy a "sustainable" income and profit from their investment?

A contract is "usually" drawn up by the contractor (employer) and presented to the "prospect" employee for their acceptance of same. Such short term contracts clearly indicate the "duration", conditions and compensations of the contract period. The employee is not obliged to accept the terms of a contract or employment. Therefore there clearly exists no abuse of the "6 month contract" in this phase.

So where is the abuse in using the "definite short term contracts"? The Law is very clear on this matter. After 3 "consecutive" contracts, with the same employer, parties must either enter into an indefinite contract or permanently end the working relationship for a period longer than 3 months. Any employer, violating this Law is in contempt. However, any employee not immediately reporting such practices to the relevant authorities is also in contempt of this Law.

Is it therefore safe to say that there is no need for amendment of the "short term contracts" aka "the 6 month contract"? Could it be that bringing more awareness of the Laws would tremendously help to eliminate the negative use, effects and or abuse of the much disputed "6 month contract"? Could a mentality change by employees (fear of losing their jobs) bring about positive curbing of the alleged abuse?

But more so, would transparency of the Laws, by Government to prospect investors when investing and establishing a business on St. Maarten, ultimately eliminate any intended abuse of the "6 month contract" and or Labor Laws? #sxmmovement.

Soualiga Social Movement

Member of Parliament George Pantophlet sees 2013 as a year where we can make positive strides. The headlines appearing on the front page of the daily herald "Government to save over Naf. 300, 000 on insurance of Government vehicles" is one such stride. It is one of the concerted efforts being made to minimize government expenditures. He is also an ardent supporter of the Minister of Finance Roland Tuitt efforts in trying to secure the much needed Naf. 40,000,000 that was supposed to be paid to St. Maarten by the Netherlands in connection with debts to creditors of the former Netherlands Antilles. He believes that these funds are still available. What will also be an important factor is the matter of tax compliance. It will be prudent for the businesses or individuals who don't comply to take the initiative by contacting the receiver's office and see what arrangements can be made with regards to outstanding taxes. In the same vein he encourages the receiver's to be realistic and balanced in their approach. He understands that the ordinance on the collection of taxes prescribes the manner in which taxes are to be collected. But the approach by the receiver should not be detrimental to the organization or individual. Another important and key stride that must be made is increasing the spending or buying power of the people of St. Maarten. He places the emphasis for achieving this on the cooperation of all. He would also like to see the establishing of the Consumer Protection Agency. It will play a vital role in protecting our consumers on St. Maarten and also our good name when it comes to visitors to our country. The Member of Parliament says that as difficult as 2012 was we must have a positive mindset for 2013. What we think affects what we do. As a man thinks in his heart so is he. The Member of Parliament said he is a proponent of establishing closer business relations with the region and the Latin American countries who have fared well during the global crisis. The issues mentioned are some of those that he will be pursuing this year. Let us face 2013 head on and make positive strides.

Member of Parliament, George Pantophlet.

Au regard du nombre de cas avérés depuis le 1er décembre 2012, du nombre d'hospitalisations enregistrées depuis le début de l'année, du nombre de passages au service des urgences de l'hôpital
et de la recrudescence de cas de dengue de sérotype 4, le comité de gestion de lutte contre la dengue qui s'est réuni, ce lundi 28 janvier 2013, sous la présidence du Préfet délégué auprès du représentant de l'Etat dans les collectivités de Saint-Barthélemy et de Saint-Martin, vient de décider le passage en phase épidémique.

Conformément au plan de surveillance, d'alerte et de gestion des épidémies (PSAGE), l'action se menée autour de 3 axes:

• Généraliser les pulvérisations d'insecticide sur toute l'île. Aussi, lors du passage des appareils d'épandage, il est suggéré d'ouvrir largement les portes et fenêtres ;
• Intensifier la communication sur les mesures individuelles et collectives pour se protéger des piqûres de moustiques ;
• Renforcer la surveillance de la situation épidémiologique.

Pour une lutte efficace contre la prolifération du seul moustique, vecteur de la dengue, l'aedes aegypti, des mesures sont à prendre pour vous prémunir à l'intérieur et autour de votre habitat:

• Utilisez des sprays ou des crèmes répulsifs ;
• Préférez les vêtements longs le soir ;
• Installez des moustiquaires aux portes et fenêtres, au sein de votre habitat. Dormez sous moustiquaire pour éviter les piqûres du matin, en particulier les enfants en bas âge et les
• personnes âgées ;
• Veillez à éliminer les stagnations d'eau dans et autour de vos maisons qui sont des lieux de reproduction du moustique. Surveillez aussi vos pots à fleur et dessous de pots ;
• Protégez la citerne de votre maison de la prolifération de moustiques par une toile moustiquaire ;
• Traitez votre citerne et développez un élevage de poissons golomines qui mangent les larves de moustiques Aedes aegypti et en diminue par conséquent la prolifération ;
• Nettoyez régulièrement vos gouttières, assurez leur vidange en cas de stagnation de l'eau après des épisodes pluvieux ;

La Délégation Territoriale de l'ARS se tient à disposition des entreprises, hôtels, gestionnaires d'immeubles pour les informer des mesures à prendre pour lutter contre le développement de
moustiques. Contact : Service de Lutte antivectorielle 0590 27 96 94 ou 0590 27 16 18.

Du 07 janvier au 18 février 2013, la compagnie de gendarmerie départementale de Saint-Martin etSaint-Barthélémy participait, sur l'initiative du commandement de la gendarmerie de Guadeloupe, àune vaste opération de sensibilisation au port des équipements de sécurité routière (casque, ceinturede sécurité, dispositifs de retenue pour enfant...).

D'abord préventive, cette opération était l'occasion de rappeler qu'en 2012, parmi les 5 personnes décédées sur le routes de la partie française de l'île de Saint-Martin, trois étaient des conducteurs de deux roues. En outre, entre 2010 et 2012, 11 conducteurs ou passagers de deux roues perdaient lavie et 52 étaient blessés, parmi lesquels certains garderont des séquelles à vie.

Ce triste constat permettait ainsi aux forces de l'ordre de démontrer toute l'importance que revêt le port des équipements de sécurité, en particulier pour les deux roues. En outre, l'action de la gendarmerie visait également à sensibiliser les parents sur l'importance de porter la ceinture de sécurité, et d'attacher leurs enfants à l'arrière des véhicules.

Après cette première phase à vocation préventive, les forces de l'ordre s'attachent à présent à vérifier que les messages sont bien passés, qu'ils ont été entendus et écoutés par le public ciblé.
Ainsi, le mardi 22 janvier 2013, la brigade motorisée de Saint-Martin réalisait une opération decontrôle aux abords de plusieurs établissements scolaires, dont les collèges de Soualiga et du Montdes-Accords.
Au cours de cette opération, pas moins de 21 infractions ont été relevées, dont plus de la moitiéportant sur le port des équipements de sécurité (13 non port de la ceinture de sécurité en particulier, conducteur et/ou passager). D'autres comportement contrevenants, voire délictuels, et donc plusgraves, ont également été relevés, parmi lesquels 03 défaut de permis de conduire dont un enrécidive. Enfin, l'usage du téléphone au volant continue d'être observé et donc réprimé, comportement pourtant aujourd'hui bien identifié comme l'une des causes principales d'accident, qui plus est en zone urbaine, aux abords des établissement scolaires.

Preuve que les actions tant en matière de prévention que de répression méritent d'être poursuivies.

Monsieur le Président
Mesdames et Messieurs les Vice-présidents
Mes chers Collègues,
Mesdames et Messieurs

Par le biais de cette lettre ouverte, je m'adresse à chacun des responsables politiques (élus) que nous sommes devenus grâce au suffrage universel, grâce aux votes de la population saint-martinoise. Mais, une fois n'est pas coutume, et ma requête au travers de ces quelques lignes, concernera d'avantage les pères et les mères de famille que nous sommes dans notre vie de tous les jours car, l'heure est grave.
A l'occasion du deuxième tour de l'élection présidentielle de mai dernier, la majorité des français élisait François Hollande Président de la république. La population Saint-martinoise qui a naturellement pris part au vote, a démocratiquement et majoritairement, voté Contre Nicolas Sarkozy et pour François Hollande mais certainement pas exclusivement pour la 31ème proposition de son programme.
L'actuel projet de loi gouvernemental qui est porté et farouchement défendu par la Garde des Sceaux, Ministre de la Justice, Madame Christiane Taubira-Delannon, et qui vise à étendre l'institution du mariage aux couples de même sexe, est une idée précisément ahurissante dans la fabuleuse histoire des civilisations humaines.
Et même si le chômage défait le tissu social, accable notre jeunesse, même si la violence et la délinquance juvénile se postent partout dans nos quartiers, même si notre économie est de plus en plus moribonde, et comme si cela ne suffisait pas, le Gouvernement français a obstinément décidé de déchirer un peu plus la France et les territoires d'Outre-mer qui la composent.
Le projet de loi qui ouvre le mariage aux couples de personnes de même sexe a été présenté par la ministre de la justice au Conseil des ministres du mercredi 7 novembre 2012 dernier, et doit être examiné par le Parlement (Assemblée Nationale et le Sénat), à partir du 29 janvier prochain.
Mais Monsieur le Président, mes chers collègues, de quoi s'agit-il concrètement pour nous autres Saint-Martinois qui sommes profondément attachés aux valeurs chrétiennes et au respect de la famille avec un grand ''F''?

• Le projet de loi donne aux personnes de même sexe le droit de se marier et donc d'adopter des enfants
• Cette loi vous obligera, Monsieur Le Président, ou vous Madame la 1ère Viceprésidente, à célébrer à Saint-Martin et dans les locaux de l'Hôtel de la collectivité, un mariage entre deux hommes ou entre deux femmes !!!
• Et Vous Monsieur le 2ème Vice-président, vous remettrez à ce couple un Livret de Famille qui portera la mention de « Parents » et non plus de « Père et Mère »
• Et par ailleurs, le projet de loi ouvre aux personnes de même sexe mariées la voie de l'adoption et de la PMA (Procréation Médicalement Assistée).

Selon la Constitution Française, dans le temps et dans l'espace, La loi française a force obligatoire dans le cadre territorial qu'elle vise et elle a normalement vocation à s'appliquer
sur l'ensemble du territoire sur lequel s'exerce la souveraineté française.
Puisqu'une loi nouvelle est généralement meilleure que la précédente, son applicabilité est donc immédiate. Cependant, il y a un risque de léser des intérêts légitimes.

Mais où allons-nous ? Jusqu'où irons-nous ?
Dans le cadre de cette affaire, je me fais fort d'être l'écho d'une grande partie du peuple saint-martinois qui se demande encore une fois, MAIS QUE FONT NOS ELUS LOCAUX ? ET A
QUOI SERVENT REELLEMENT NOS DEUX PARLEMENTAIRES ?
Ainsi chers collègues, vous l'aurez compris : Notre collectivité n'est pas épargnée et c'est là, la raison de cette lettre ouverte, c'est aussi là, tout le sens de mon combat depuis toujours.
Ce projet de loi nous pose trois problèmes majeurs.

Premièrement,
Le projet de loi touche au coeur même de notre civilisation et pour Saint Martin, plus spécifiquement, à la sensibilité religieuse profonde qui existe au sein de la population saintmartinoise; elle touche au principe sur lequel est fondé l'institution du mariage construite anthropologiquement sur l'union de l'homme et de la femme.
la loi dissout d'un point de vue anthropologique une distinction essentielle qui fonctionne dans l'ensemble de nos sociétés et qui jusqu'à aujourd'hui est porteuse de nombreuses
valeurs positives de nos vies.

Deuxièmement,
Si nous reconnaissons absolument le droit de toute personne à avoir la vie sexuelle de son choix et considérons cette règle comme une règle sacrée pour toute société respectueuse
des droits de l'homme, la suppression au sein de l'institution du mariage de la différence des sexes et de la distinction Homme/femme nous semble poser de vrais et graves problèmes qui touchent au fondement de notre société et dont le premier est d'ordre éthique et psychologique, pour nous saint-martinois.
La dissolution des différences dans l'institution du mariage , comme l'ont mis en evidence des spécialistes, pose la question du droit de l'enfant à avoir un père( male) et une mère (femelle) quelque soit le statut juridique du couple de ses parents.
C'est au nom de ce droit qui concerne les générations à venir que nous entendons faire entendre notre voix saint-martinoise.

Troisièmement,
Ce projet de loi pose enfin un problème éminemment politique, car on considère cette évidence que le mariage en tant qu'institution n'est pas prioritairement ordonné à la satisfaction des individus mais au bien commun de la société.
Aborder la définition du mariage sous le seul angle d'un prétendu « droit au mariage » c'est en dénaturer le sens.
La société Saint-martinoise est en crise et souffre déjà de tous les maux. Notre population et plus particulièrement notre jeunesse manquent de repères fondamentaux, ne connaissent pas les "valeurs", qu'elles soient nationales, patrimoniales, culturelles ou morales.
Pour ma part, et puisqu'il y va de ma responsabilité d'élu local, je ne puis accepter que cette loi qui représente un vrai danger pour notre peuple, soit promulguée et s'applique sur le territoire de Saint-Martin sans la combattre vaillamment, sans mettre tout en oeuvre pour faire savoir au gouvernement français qu'une grande majorité de la population saint-martinoise que nous représentons ici et à Paris, y est donc hostile.
Il est donc de notre devoir en tant que responsables politiques élus, soucieux de l'intérêt général de celles et ceux qui nous ont choisis, et avec l'appui du CESC, d'interpeller et de mandater officiellement nos deux parlementaires Daniel Gibbs, (Député de la 1ère Circonscription de St-Barthélemy et de St-Martin), et Louis-Constant Fleming, (Sénateur de St-Martin), à réagir fermement, à porter le message au Parlement, au nom du Conseil Territorial, pour réclamer auprès du gouvernement, le retrait pur et simple de ce projet de loi d'une part, et d'autre part, à faire valoir le « Principe de la spécialité législative », afin que cette loi ne soit pas applicable dès facto sur le territoire de notre Collectivité d'Outre-Mer, même si il s'agit-là d'un cas de « Droit civique » et de « Garanties des libertés publiques ».
En effet, par le biais de l'article 76 de la Constitution du 4 octobre 1958, dans sa rédaction d'origine, les territoires d'outre-mer ont conservé le bénéfice de la spécialité législative que l'article 74 révisé (74-1) par la loi constitutionnelle du 28 mars 2003 a expressément conforté.
En ces circonstances, dans la suite logique de mon intervention à l'occasion de la réunion du Conseil Territorial du jeudi 17 janvier dernier, et avec le concours de tous : (le DGS, service juridique de la COM, l'épiscopat, fédération des églises, le CESC, les associations de défense des droits de l'enfant et de la famille, l'association des parents d'élèves, etc.), je propose donc qu'un texte de délibération en bonne et due forme soit rapidement préparé et adopté par notre assemblée en ce sens.

Je vous remercie.
Jules Charville,
Conseiller Territorial

Le Parlement a décidé d'injecter 20 milliards d'euros dans l'économie, en réduisant de manière significative le coût du travail pour les entreprises. Toutefois, compte tenu de la compétence fiscale dont est dotée la Collectivité de Saint-Martin, les entreprises saint-martinoises sont exclues de ce dispositif. Le Président Richardson a donc décidé de saisir le ministre des Outre-mer, Victorin Lurel sur cette exclusion injustifiée des entreprises saint-martinoises du bénéfice de ce dispositif.

Dans le cadre du « pacte national pour la croissance, la compétitivité et l'emploi », le Parlement, sur l'initiative du Gouvernement, a décidé d'injecter 20 milliards d'euros dans l'économie, en réduisant de manière significative le coût du travail pour les entreprises.
Ces dernières bénéficieront ainsi d'une aide égale à 6 % de la masse salariale brute supportée au cours de l'année pour les rémunérations inférieures ou égales à 2,5 SMIC (4 % en 2013). Cette aide prendra soit la forme d'une réduction d'impôt, soit la forme d'un chèque du Trésor public pour celles qui n'acquittent pas un impôt suffisant pour permettre l'imputation de cette aide.
Compte tenu de la compétence fiscale dont est dotée la collectivité, le choix de la « dépense fiscale » comme mode de financement de cette aide, sans précédent, exclut de fait les entreprises saint-martinoises de ce dispositif.

Le Président, Alain Richardson, soutenu par l'ensemble des élus de la majorité, considère que cette exclusion est totalement injustifiée.
En effet, la compétence fiscale dont jouit la collectivité ne peut pas avoir pour conséquence d'exclure les entreprises établies à Saint-Martin du bénéfice d'une politique nationale visant à réduire le coût du travail, coût sur lequel la collectivité n'a aucune maîtrise puisque le droit du travail, le droit social et la politique de l'emploi relèvent des seules compétences de l'État.
Déjà confrontées au quotidien à la concurrence des entreprises implantées à Sint-Maarten, territoire où le coût du travail est inférieur à celui constaté du côté français et où le droit du travail est bien plus souple, les entreprises saint-martinoises subiront dorénavant celle des entreprises guadeloupéennes ou martiniquaises qui bénéficieront d'un avantage compétitif majeur du fait du CICE.
Par un courrier du 14 janvier dernier, le Président du conseil territorial a appelé l'attention du ministre des outre-mer sur la nécessité de trouver rapidement une solution pour que les entreprises saint-martinoises bénéficient d'une aide équivalente.

M. Louis-Constant Fleming, Sénateur, et M. Daniel Gibbs, Député, réunis à la demande de M. Alain Richardson, ont été informés de cette situation et se sont engagés à appuyer les démarches de la collectivité auprès des autorités politiques nationales.

La semaine dernière, le Président de la Collectivité, Alain Richardson, et la vice-présidente chargée du pôle solidarité et famille, se sont rendus à Quartier d'Orléans afin d'assister au 103e anniversaire de Joanice Leopold « Joanas » Illidge. Né le 18 janvier 1910 à Saint-Martin, ce senior n'est portant pas le doyen de Quartier d'Orléans, puisque Delphine Aliette Hyman soufflera ses 104 bougies en septembre prochain.
Monsieur ILLIDGE est pris en charge par l'Allocation Personnalisée de l'Autonomie APA, dans le cadre de la politique du maintien à domicile des personnes âgée de la Collectivité de Saint-Martin. Le pôle Solidarité et Famille accompagne les personnes âgées, notamment via le maintien à domicile, une des réponses les plus adaptées aux besoins des seniors. Ce dispositif permet en effet à ces derniers de rester dans leur environnement familial, ce qui maintient leur équilibre physique et psychologique.
Le Président Richardson et la vice-présidente Connor ont ensuite remis à Monsieur Illidge des cadeaux, dans une ambiance chaleureuse et conviviale forte en émotions.

La Collectivité de Saint-Martin informe toutes les personnes qui ont déposé un dossier de demande d'échange de permis de conduire hollandais, entre le 1er mars et 31 décembre 2011, de se rapprocher des bureaux des Titres - Salle Omnisport Galisbay - pour toute information concernant leur dossier.
Par ailleurs, il est rappelé que la date limite de dépôt des dossiers de demande d'échange est fixée au 31 mars 2013.
Merci de votre coopération.

A l'instigation du commandement de la gendarmerie de Guadeloupe, une vaste opération de sensibilisation au port des équipements de sécurité routière (casque, ceinture de sécurité, siège auto), auquel s'associe la compagnie de gendarmerie de St Martin, est conduite du 7 janvier au 18 février.
Lancée autour des établissements scolaires, elle sera articulée en deux temps:

• Prévention et sensibilisation jusqu'au 18 janvier,
• Répression à partir du 21 janvier.

La compagnie de gendarmerie de St Martin rappelle qu'en 2012, parmi les 5 personnes décédées sur les routes de la partie française, 3 étaient des conducteurs de deux roues. Entre 2010 et 2012, 11 conducteurs ou passagers de deux roues ont ainsi perdu la vie et 52 ont été blessés, parmi lesquels certains garderont des séquelles à vie. Ce triste constat démontre toute l'importance que revêt le port des
équipements de sécurité, notamment pour les deux roues. Cette action vise également à sensibiliser les parents sur l'importance d'attacher leurs enfants à l'arrière des véhicules.

La Collectivité informe que dans le cadre de la préparation de l'année scolaire 2013-2014, il sera procédé à l'inscription des élèves selon les modalités suivantes :

Inscription en classes maternelles : tous secteurs confondus.
Du 3 Décembre au 21 Décembre 2012 et du 2 Janvier au 18 Janvier 2013

• Enfants nés en 2010 (PS)
• Enfants nés en 2008 et 2009 (MS et GS – non scolarisés)

Inscription au Cours préparatoire (CP) : tous secteurs confondus.
Les parents des enfants inscrits en GS retireront à l'école au mois de janvier, la fiche de renseignements qui, dûment complétée, sera déposée à la direction du 1er degré et des affaires scolaires au plus tard le 15 février 2013.

Du 17 Juin au 28 Juin 2013 :
Demande de Transfert : classes maternelles et élémentaires.
Demande d'Inscription : classes élémentaires (CE1 au CM2) (Nouveaux arrivants) :
Les demandes de transfert seront étudiées au cas par cas et accordées dans la limite des places disponibles. Les dossiers feront l'objet d'une analyse particulière.

Seuls les enfants nés en 2010, sont acceptés en PS. (En cas de sureffectif, la priorité ira aux plus âgés et non au premier inscrit).

Liste des pièces à fournir par enfant pour toute inscription ou transfert

La demande d'inscription ne pourra être retenue que si le dossier est complet.

- Photocopie du livret de famille ou d'un extrait d'acte de naissance (enfant)
- Photocopie du carnet de vaccinations (pages 90 à 93)
- Photocopie d'un justificatif de domicile de moins de 3 mois (EDF, Eaux, Télécom, autres pièces administratives, Avis d'imposition 2011)
- Attestation d'adressage (à retirer au Pôle Développement Durable - Service Recensement et adressage-ancien Hôpital)
- Photocopie de la pièce d'identité des parents.
- Photocopie du jugement pour l'exercice de l'autorité parentale (en cas de séparation, de divorce, ...).
- Certificat médical d'aptitude à la vie en milieu scolaire (enfant né en 2010).
- Certificat de scolarité ou de radiation (en cas de changement d'établissement scolaire public ou privé)

Les certificats d'inscriptions sont à retirer entre le 17 et le 21 Juin 2013.

Dans la soirée du 09 janvier 2013, en réponse à l'agression par jet de projectiles d'une patrouille de gendarmes mobiles la nuit précédente, la compagnie de gendarmerie de Saint-Martin et Saint-Barthélémy a mis sur pied une opération de contrôle de zone dans le quartier de Sandy Ground.

Cette opération, menée sur la base d'une réquisition du Procureur de la République permettant des contrôles d'identité aux fins de rechercher des armes et des produits stupéfiants a consisté en la mise sur pied simultanée de plusieurs postes de contrôle, armés au total par 50 militaires de la gendarmerie, sous l'autorité du chef d'escadron BETAILLE, commandant de compagnie et en présence de M. le préfet délégué auprès du représentant de l'État, Monsieur Philippe CHOPIN, qui entendait soutenir les forces de l'ordre dans leur action et marquer la détermination de l'État et du gouvernement dans la lutte contre l'insécurité et la délinquance.

L'opération a été lancée à 20h00. Elle a duré un peu plus d'une heure et permis de contrôler de manière approfondie 80 véhicules et 150 personnes.

Au cours de l'opération, deux interpellations ont été réalisées : la première pour détention et transport illicite d'une arme de 6ème catégorie (batte de base-ball), la seconde pour détention de produits stupéfiants (herbe de cannabis).

Outre la batte de base-ball et les stupéfiants précédemment cités, 3 scooters ont été immobilisés par décision administrative (non conformes, non assurés et non identifiables) et confisqués par les gendarmes.

Le ratissage méthodique du terrain par une équipe cynophile spécialisée dans la recherche de produits stupéfiants associée au contrôle a permis par ailleurs de découvrir 77 grammes d'herbe de cannabis et 150 grammes de graines de cannabis manifestement abandonnés par leur(s) porteur(s) à quelques dizaines de mètres des barrages.

L'opération a permis de confirmer le fait que la majorité de la population du quartier de Sandy Groud reste favorable aux forces de l'ordre et demande à être protégée, alors qu'une minorité de jeunes de 15 à 25 ans, délinquants d'habitude vivant de larcins et de trafics, sont foncièrement hostiles aux gendarmes et redoutés par la frange saine de la population qui est quotidiennement victime de leurs agissements.

La compagnie de gendarmerie de St-Martin et St-Barthélémy entend bien ne pas relâcher la pression exercée avec le ferme et constant soutien des autorités judiciaires sur la population délinquante de ce quartier.

L'opération a été aussi l'occasion d'expliquer aux résidents de Sandy Ground l'agression dont avait été victime un gendarme la nuit précédente.

Des éléments recueillis par les gendarmes, il semblerait que cette agression par caillassage et jet de projectiles divers soit liée non seulement à l'interpellation de quatre auteurs de braquages et vols à main armée le matin-même, mais aussi à l'arrestation 4 jours plus tôt par la gendarmerie d'un individu porteur de 4,754 kg d'herbe de cannabis. La neutralisation de ce dealer et la confiscation d'une telle quantité de stupéfiants a manifestement déstabilisé un petit réseau local en lui occasionnant des pertes financières conséquentes.

Le recensement, ce n'est pas seulement compter le nombre d'habitants vivant en France, c'est aussi suivre chaque année l'évolution de la population, des communes et plus généralement de la société. Que ce soit en matière de crèches, d'hôpitaux, de pharmacies, de logements, de transports publics, de rénovation de quartiers, d'infrastructures sportives, etc., vos réponses sont essentielles pour aider vos élus à mieux répondre à vos besoins.
En 2013, une partie du territoire est recensée. En effet, chaque année, une enquête est organisée par la Collectivité et l'Insee dans les communes de 10 000 habitants ou plus, auprès d'un échantillon de 8 % de leur population. Ainsi, il se peut que vous soyez recensé cette année, alors qu'un membre de votre voisinage ne l'est pas.
Si vous êtes concerné, une lettre du Président avec une notice d'information vous sera remise. Un agent recenseur se rendra à votre domicile à partir du 17 janvier 2013. Vous pourrez le reconnaître grâce à sa carte officielle tricolore comportant sa photographie et la signature du maire.
Il vous aidera à remplir une feuille pour le logement recensé, un bulletin individuel pour chaque personne vivant dans ce logement.
Les quelques minutes que vous prendrez pour répondre aux questionnaires sont importantes. La qualité du recensement dépend de votre participation. C'est avant tout un acte civique, mais aussi une obligation légale en vertu de la loi du 7 juin 1951 modifiée.
Toutes vos réponses sont confidentielles. Elles sont transmises à l'Insee et ne peuvent faire l'objet d'aucun contrôle administratif ou fiscal.
Pour trouver les réponses à vos principales questions sur le recensement de la population 2013 : www.le-recensement-et-moi.fr
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Le 05 janvier 2013, à 22h00, un automobiliste, refusant d'obtempérer, fait demi-tour à la vued'un poste de contrôle mis en place par la compagnie de gendarmerie de St-Martin à hauteur ducarrefour giratoire de l'office de tourisme à Marigot.

Les militaires de l'escadron de Chaumont, unité de force mobile actuellement détachée en renfort
de la compagnie, parviennent toutefois à intercepter le conducteur, alors qu'il venait de stationnerson véhicule dans le quartier de Sandy-Ground et tentait de prendre la fuite.

Lors de son interpellation, 4 kg 750 grammes d'herbe de cannabis sont alors découverts dans levéhicule. L'individu, français demeurant à Sint-Maarten, est immédiatement conduit à la brigade deMarigot, et placé en garde à vue par les militaires de la communauté de brigades de Saint-Martin.

Déferré en Guadeloupe, il est incarcéré dans l'attente de son jugement qui interviendra le 1er
février prochain.

Au cours des 10 premiers jours de l'année 2013, plus de 5 kg d'herbe de cannabis, 25 grammesde crack et 1 gramme de cocaïne ont ainsi été saisis par la gendarmerie à l'occasion d'opérations de
contrôle. En outre, 6 interpellations en lien avec ces saisies ont été réalisées.

Mardi 8 janvier, dans le cadre d'une opération judiciaire, les gendarmes ont procédé à l'interpellation, dans le quartier de Sandy Ground à Saint-Martin, de 4 individus susceptibles d'être mis en cause dans 31 VAMA commis principalement depuis mi-octobre 2012.

Des gendarmes qui patrouillaient en voiture, mercredi à 00h05 dans le quartier, ont été la cible de jets de projectiles, lesquels ont blessé sérieusement au visage un gendarme mobile de l'escadron de Chaumont qui fait l'objet d'une ITT de 12 jours suite à une fracture du toit orbital et à des blessures cutanées qui ont nécessité 15 points de suture.

Le Préfet délégué et le Président de la collectivité territoriale se sont rendus, ce jour, dans les locaux de la compagnie de gendarmerie de Saint-Martin afin de lui adresser un message de soutien et leurs voeux de complet et prompt rétablissement et ont condamné cette embuscade contre des représentants des forces de l'ordre.

Après avoir salué l'engagement de l'ensemble des gendarmes dans la lutte contre l'insécurité, le Préfet a rappelé que cette mission constitue une priorité de l'action du Gouvernement.

A ce titre, et afin de montrer l'engagement de l'Etat en la matière, une vaste opération mobilisant une quarantaine de gendarmes, et à laquelle le Préfet a pris part, a été menée mercredi 9 janvier à 20h00.

Le 1er janvier aux environs de 17h00, un couple de sans domicile fixe est agressé à hauteur de larue de l'Anguille, dans un passage situé juste avant la rue de la Porte, à Marigot. Cette agression aentraîné le décès d'une des victimes quelques jours plus tard.

La gendarmerie recherche toute personne susceptible d'avoir emprunté la rue de l'Anguille aumoment des faits, ou d'avoir discuté avec les deux victimes au cours de la journée du 1er janvier.

Prière de prendre contact avec la brigade de recherches de St Martin en composant le «05 90 5230 12» ou le «17» ; ou encore, en se présentant à la gendarmerie de la Savane.

Je souhaite en cette nouvelle année adresser à l'ensemble de la population de Saint-Martin, mes meilleurs vœux de santé, de paix, de courage et de prospérité pour 2013. La santé, la paix et le courage nous seront nécessaires pour que tous ensemble, nous nous montrions responsables et combatifs afin que la prospérité soit de retour sur notre territoire et dans notre vie.
2012 a été marquée par de nombreuses élections dont les résultats ont modifié l'échiquier politique aux niveaux local et national. Pour rappel, notre équipe est en place depuis avril 2012, et je tiens une nouvelle fois à remercier celles et ceux qui nous ont accordés leur confiance, mais aussi à rassurer encore les autres de notre détermination à servir l'intérêt général pour le mieux-être de tous les habitants de Saint-Martin.
La crise internationale n'est pas terminée et ses conséquences néfastes sur notre quotidien continuent de s'imposer ; nous avons donc dû nous adapter et mobiliser les énergies pour faire face à ce contexte que désormais nous refusons de subir. En outre, en 2012 compte tenu de la situation financière et budgétaire catastrophique dont notre équipe a hérité, il était indispensable pour que la confiance dans notre collectivité soit regagnée que nous focalisions tous nos efforts et toute notre énergie au rétablissement des comptes de la COM (équilibre budgétaire, paiement des dettes, rééchelonnement de certains emprunts, emprunts nouveaux de restructuration, ...). Il me plait d'affirmer que ces premiers mois de gestion rigoureuse, de lobbying, mais aussi d'une méthode fondée sur un langage de vérité et une volonté de traiter les causes structurelles des difficultés de notre collectivité, même si les solutions peuvent être des fois impopulaires, ont commencé à porter des premiers résultats positifs et tangibles : aujourd'hui l'Etat ainsi que des prêteurs privés nous font confiance.
• Dans le cadre de l'accompagnement de l'Etat, un protocole d'accompagnement financier a été signé en décembre entre le Préfet représentant l'Etat et moi-même Président de la Collectivité de Saint-Martin. Il a ouvert la voie au versement à la COM d'une avance de trésorerie de 18 M€ ainsi que l'octroi par l'AFD (Agence Française de Développement) d'un prêt de restructuration de 25 M€ versé en trois fois (15 M€ fin d'année 2012 ; 5 M€ en 2013 et 5 M€ en 2014).
• Avec la Caisse d'Epargne nous avons pu renégocier et restructurer nos emprunts et obtenir 3,5 M€ de prêt supplémentaire et une ligne de trésorerie de 5 M€.
Maintenant que le rétablissement de la situation financière et budgétaire de notre collectivité est sur de bons rails, que la crédibilité et la confiance sont de retour, l'heure a sonné en 2013 pour la bataille du développement économique et des actions en faveur de notre jeunesse.
C'est ainsi qu'en décembre dernier, le Conseil territorial a débattu des orientations budgétaires pour 2013, et nous avons fixé les priorités et les grands chantiers publics.
Les politiques et projets issus de ces orientations budgétaires sont tributaires de la poursuite d'une gestion rigueur de la dépense publique, d'une optimisation des recettes fiscales ainsi que de celles issues de la gestion du patrimoine de la COM, de l'indispensable lutte contre les abus et la fraude fiscale et sociale, mais aussi d' un accompagnement fort de l'Etat et d'une prise de conscience citoyenne de tous face aux obligations administratives et fiscales.
• Les grands axes du programme d'investissement et des politiques pour 2013 :
- L'achèvement et la mise en service de la médiathèque et des archives territoriales aux environs du mois de mars 2013. Il s'agit d'un projet d'envergure dont la réalisation est capitale dans le cadre de la valorisation de la Culture et de l'Education. La médiathèque a vocation à devenir le lieu incontournable de la connaissance à Saint-Martin, le rendez-vous du savoir et de la curiosité.
- Le lancement de la construction de la Cité Scolaire sous la forme d'un Bail Emphytéotique Administratif (BEA).
- La poursuite des travaux routiers, dont les phases 2 et 3 de la rue de Hollande et le prolongement de la route du Galion ; L'aménagement autour du Lagon de Grand Case par la création d'une voie d'accès à l'Aéroport ;
- L'aménagement du territoire est un thème central dans le cadre de l'amélioration de la circulation sur la partie française, et nous envisageons pour 2013 notamment :
+ Le lancement de la 3ème phase de l'aménagement de l'entrée de Marigot / vue de Saint James ;
+ Sur Grand-Case : l'aménagement et création de places de parkings et d'une place publique devant l'agence postale ; l'embellissement et l'aménagement du site « étang du cimetière de Grand Case » ;
+ Aménagement de la Baie de Cul-de-Sac.
- La poursuite de l'acquisition des terrains nécessaires au développement de l'aéroport, et l'aménagement de la nouvelle voie de contournement de la piste.
- La poursuite des opérations de Résorption de l'Habitat Insalubre (RHI) à Quartier d'Orléans.
- La poursuite des travaux de rénovation du lycée et des collèges avec un notamment le traitement des inondations au collège de Quartier d'Orléans et l'augmentation du nombre de classes au lycée pour la rentrée 2013.
- La poursuite de la rénovation des équipements sportifs.
- Le réaménagement du réseau d'eaux pluviales depuis la ravine de Spring jusqu'à l'étang de Galisbay en commençant par une première phase qui traitera la partie basse du réseau.
- La préparation de l'appel d'offres pour une assistance à maîtrise d'ouvrage (AMO) pour le lancement d'une délégation de service public (DSP) en 2014 pour le projet « Front de Mer ».
- La relance des études sur les projets routiers dans le cadre du Programme Opérationnel 2014-2020 : nouvelle liaison routière Grand-Case / Agrément, contournement de Marigot dont l'aménagement d'une voirie entre la médiathèque et la route de Spring ; etc... ).
- Le lancement des études pour la nouvelle Cité Administrative.
- Le lancement des études pour le déploiement du schéma directeur de l'aménagement numérique du territoire et le développement des nouvelles technologies de l'information et de la communication (NTIC), dont la modernisation de l'administration territoriale.
- Le lancement des études pour la construction de nouveaux équipements sociaux : nouvel EHPAD (maison de retraite) pour remplacer l'actuel bâtiment de Bethany Home, nouvelle structure polyvalente pour handicapés de moins de 25 ans (institut médico-éducatif, institut médico-professionnel), création d'une Maison Territoriale de l'Autonomie et d'une Maison Territoriale de l'Enfance.
- L'aménagement (qui passe par des acquisitions foncières) de la future zone de développement commercial et industriel de Galisbay-Bienvenue, avec notamment des réserves foncières pour la « e-zone » et la « free-zone » et pour le développement du port.
- Lancement de travaux et de politiques d'aménagement et de redynamisation de Marigot (gestion du stationnement et mise en place de parkings payants, mesures incitatives afin d'encourager les propriétaires à entretenir leurs façades et à rénover les locaux ; amélioration de la signalétique ; rénovation et réaménagement du marché touristique ; soutien aux animations et activités pour accroitre la fréquentation, etc..)
- Refonte du régime d'aides aux entreprises ; développement et soutien de dispositifs de financement de l'activité économiques (microcrédits et fonds de développement économiques, poursuite du financement du fonds de garantie des entreprises en partenariat avec l'Agence Française de Développement notamment),
- Soutien aux embauches des jeunes dans le cadre des emplois d'avenir notamment pour les secteurs non marchands (le monde associatif ainsi que les entreprises et associations d'insertion).
- En matière de tourisme : Poursuite de la modernisation des hébergements touristiques et de leur mise aux normes ; Mise en place des bases d'un observatoire du tourisme ; incitations pour l'augmentation de l'offre d'hébergement ;
L'année 2013 sera par ailleurs celle de la préparation avec l'appui de l'Etat d'un nouveau Programme Opérationnel pour 2014-2020 de fonds européens et des subventions complémentaires attendues de l'Etat.
Le budget total, fonctionnement et investissement confondus, devrait frôler pour 2013 les 115 M€ en crédits réels. Comme vous pouvez vous en rendre compte, la Collectivité prend ses responsabilités par les efforts qu'elle fait en matière de recettes et d'économies budgétaires. Pour 2013 les objectifs que la Collectivité s'est fixée sont nombreux, mais répondent aux demandes et besoins de l'ensemble de la population de notre territoire. Après une année 2012 mouvementée et exigeante, 2013 devrait nous permettre de travailler sereinement et à être beaucoup plus souvent sur le terrain à votre écoute.
• Rôle clé du secteur.
Soyons clairs, seule, la Collectivité ne pourra jamais répondre à l'exigence de création de richesse et de création d'activité et d'emplois. Le rôle et le partenariat avec le secteur privé sont incontournables et indispensables afin de fortifier notre tissu économique et social par la diversification de notre économie. Comme nous n'avons eu de cesse de l'affirmer lors de la campagne en 2012, la compétitivité et l'attractivité de notre territoire sont les moyens indispensables pour inciter, encourager et attirer l'investissement privé.
Dans les semaines à venir, le chantier menant à l'adoption du schéma de développement économique du territoire sera ouvert afin que soient identifiés et mis en place au plus tôt, tous les outils et leviers nécessaires et utiles notamment en matière de fiscalité attractive, de financement, de formation de la ressource humaine et de logistique pour rendre enfin le territoire de Saint-Martin attractif et compétitif. Je veux dire et redire à tous les porteurs de projets et à tous les investisseurs locaux et étrangers que Saint-Martin au-delà d'être la « friendly island » a l'ambition en 2013 de devenir « investor friendly » et que notre territoire est « open for business ».
Pour cela et dans la bataille pour l'attractivité et la compétitivité de notre territoire nous aurons besoin de trouver en l'Etat un partenaire capable de comprendre le contexte particulier et difficile dans lequel gravite notre collectivité et qui nous accompagne dans les domaines qui sont les siens (réglementation du travail ; niveau des charges sociales ; normes, réglementations et procédures administratives ; accès au financement ; sécurité ; etc...).
Mes chers compatriotes 2013 est une opportunité formidable pour que notre collectivité de Saint-Martin rebondisse plus forte, plus dynamique mais aussi plus solidaire et plus responsable. La tache est lourde mais exaltante, je vous invite donc avec les membres du Conseil Territorial à relever les défis de 2013 mais aussi à saisir toutes ses opportunités nouvelles.
Soyons tous Responsables, combatifs et généreux afin que 2013 soit conforme à nos espérances, à nos désirs mais surtout à tout ce pour quoi et vers quoi tous ensemble nous allons œuvrer. Que la confiance soit une valeur première qui unisse la Collectivité et ses citoyens.
Pour conclure, je vous réitère à titre personnel ainsi qu'au nom du Conseil territorial, tous nos vœux de santé, de paix, de courage et de prospérité. Bonne et heureuse à vous et à ceux qui vous sont chers.

Le lundi 31 décembre 2012 à 03h50, une tentative de cambriolage était commise à la Baie Nettlé, au domicile d'un particulier, par un jeune homme âgé de 15 ans originaire du quartier de Sandy Ground. Celui-ci, mis en fuite par l'occupant de l'appartement, était rapidement interpellé et entendu par la communauté de brigades de St Martin.

Les investigations réalisées par la suite ont permis de déterminer que le même individu avait prispart à 3 vols à main armée, commis récemment:

• le vol d'un appareil multimédia sur la voie publique, samedi 29 décembre 2012 à 16h40 auxTerres-Basses, par un individu qui avait pris la fuite en scooter;
• la tentative de vol d'un sac à main, samedi 29 décembre à 22h30 à Anse Marcel, par deuxindividus en scooter munis d'une arme de poing, d'un couteau et d'une fusée de détresse. Les deux individus avaient pris la fuite en raison de la résistance de la victime;
• le vol de clefs de voitures et de pièces de monnaie, dimanche 30 décembre à 05h45, au préjudiced'un automobiliste stationné à la Baie Nettlé, par un individu muni d'une arme de poing. Levéhicule avait par la suite été dérobé.

Le jeune homme de 15 ans, auteur des trois faits, et l'individu âgé de 18 ans, ayant commis aveclui la tentative de vol à Anse Marcel, ont tous deux été placés en garde à vue à la brigade derecherches de St Martin. Ils ont reconnu leur implication au cours des auditions réalisées. Déferréen Guadeloupe le 4 janvier, le mineur est placé en foyer d'accueil tandis que le majeur a été écrouéà la maison d'arrêt de Basse-Terre.

En outre, l'appareil multimédia et le véhicule dérobés ont été retrouvés et restitués à leur légitimespropriétaires.

40 militaires de la compagnie de gendarmerie de St Martin, de la brigade motorisée et de l'escadron de gendarmerie mobile de Chaumont ont été engagés au cours de la nuit de la StSylvestre afin de prendre part à des opérations de sécurisation de l'espace publique et de sécurité routière.
Des patrouilles ont ainsi été déployées sur l'ensemble des secteurs où se déroulaient les festivités et des postes de contrôle de l'imprégnation alcoolique ont été mis en oeuvre en divers points du territoire.
Aucun trouble à l'ordre public important n'a été relevé au cours de cette nuit.

SIMPSON BAY:--- The Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM Airport) kicks off the celebration of its 70th anniversary with the official launch of its rebranding on February 2, 2013.

The rebranding includes a new logo and a new website – www.sxmairport.com – which is simple to navigate and which offers real-time information on arriving and departing flights.

The new website also features user-generated YouTube videos in the "Spectacular Landings" section that show the now award-winning world-famous approach.

The logo was inspired by the IATA designation code of the airport – SXM. It is eye-catching and easy to identify and remember. The logo was chosen by Princess Juliana International Airport based on a comprehensive review of how other airports around the world are named and identified.

"The whole rebranding project is aimed at re-positioning the Princess Juliana International Airport as a leading hub in the Caribbean and to promote our ultra-modern facilities and the quality of our services," said Regina LaBega, managing director of the Princess Juliana International Airport operating company (PJIAE).

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Minister of Education, Culture, Youth, and Sports the honorable Silveria Jacobs mediated a meeting with the St. Maarten Carnival Development Foundation (SCDF) President Michael Granger, Member Radjouki, and Calypsonians for an amicable solution to facilitate the Road March Competition being a part of the Carnival schedule for 2013.

The SCDF had cancelled the Road March competition due to low registration numbers. Calypsonians were outraged at the prospect of not being able to take part in the annual competition. In an effort to have the show placed back on the schedule, a petition drive was initiated amongst the Calypsonians.

The petition was sent to the Minister of Education, Culture youth and Sport in the hopes that she would be able to intervene with the SCDF on their behalf.

The Minister called a meeting with both the SCDF and Calypsonian representatives to come to a solution for the cancelled Road March competition on Wednesday evening. During the meeting both parties were afforded the opportunity to give their account of what lead to the cancellation, after which several options were brought forward.

All parties involved were able to agree to add the Road March competition to the carnival schedule on April 23rd 2013. The SCDF agreed to extend registration for the competition for one week (Jan 31 - Feb 7) in order to accommodate the Calypsonians who claimed to be unaware of the deadline which had passed. Registration forms have been delivered by the president of the SCDF, Michael Granger, and will be available as of January 31st 2013 at the reception of the Government Administration Building

Though a solution has been found for this year's competition, the Minister emphasized that all registrants should adhere to the registration guideline set by the SCDF in order to facilitate the proper and timely planning of the competitions.

The Minister also encouraged the Calypsonians to organize themselves as artists in one body to facilitate dialogue with the SCDF and other stakeholders in promoting their craft.

Minister Jacobs also pledged the assistance of government in hosting the Road March Competition, and thanked the SCDF and Calypsonians for the professionalism displayed in coming to a solution which would be an added value to Carnival 2013 and the population of St. Maarten.

Great Bay:--- A delegation comprising of Minister Cornelius De Weever and GEBE management made a site visit last week to the location in Point Blanche where the two new water tanks will be built. Currently the old tanks are being demolished to make way for the new tanks.

The demolition of the last old tank will be completed early February 2013 after which excavation works will start followed by the construction of the foundation and the concrete tank floor which according to the planning will be completed end of May 2013. The assembling works of the tanks will start early June 2013. Leeward Island Construction Company will carry out the civil works for the contract amount of ANG 330,000. The first tank has been shipped in parts to St. Maarten, where it arrives the end of this week (February 1, 2013).

Minister of Public Health Social Development & Labor, Cornelius De Weever stated that he is very happy with the progress being made thus far as they are collaboratively ensuring that drinking water will be available mainly to the inhabitants of the Point Blanche area, and the Eastern area of St. Maarten there will be no more risk of water shortage with the construction of these two new tanks.

In August 2012 a three-way agreement was signed between Government, GEBE and Air-Fin/Seven Seas Water providing detailed arrangements of the supply, installation, commissioning, operation and ownership of the two water tanks. Each tank has a capacity of 3000 m3. The tanks are constructed of double sided "glass-fused" steel. The fused glass enables a protecting layer with no oxidation of the inner surface and as result safe storage of drinking water with no discoloration, as well as a low maintenance outside tank surface, reducing therefore the cost of operations and maintenance. The tanks will be built to withstand high winds experienced in hurricanes as well as for seismic tremors in earthquake prone areas. The tanks are manufactured by Florida Aqua Store, a tank specialist. In complying with the agreement Government issued in long lease the parcel of land for the water tanks in Pointe Blanche, while Seven Seas Water will supply the tanks, with GEBE building the foundation and supervising the entire project. The pre-structural design was done by Independent Consulting Engineers, the structural supervision will be in hands of Florida Aqua Store. Once completed, the tanks will be owned by government and operated and maintained by GEBE.

Government, GEBE and SSW are pleased that the project is now moving forward because the tanks will improve the water storage and distribution system for the people of St. Maarten. The installation of additional water storage will also take some pressure off of the reverse osmosis plants, which until a new plant is built, will be operating practically nonstop.

Once in operation the tanks will add to the present storage capacity and will service the area of Pointe Blanche, the Harbor, Philipsburg and surrounding areas. The location of the two tanks is also in considering the Pointe Blanche Harbor area as the location for a new water production plant. The project for the expansion of the drinking water production capacity in Point Blanche, on the cargo premises, with two new reverse osmosis units has also started. Air Fin is searching the area for the best location for the feed water wells for the plant.

Great Bay:--- The Ministry of Public Health Social Development & Labor would is urging employer's to provide their employees with pay slips, which is based on the law, Book 7A title 7A of the Civil Code.
Minister of Public Health Social Development & Labor, Cornelius De Weever mentioned that he has received several complaints about the practice of employers not doing the right thing and providing inaccurate pay slips to their employees.
It is stated that for any payments of fixed wages, the employer is obligated to provide the employee with a written declaration (salary slip) of the salary amount, the amounts of which this is composed of, the amounts that have been withheld from the salary, as well as the salary amount a person of similar age as the employee is entitled to over the period in which the salary is calculated pursuant to the provisions under the minimum wage ordinance.
In addition the ordinance states that the written declaration must also mention the name of the employer and the employee, the date of entering the service, the period for which pay is calculated, as well as the agreed working hours.
"I am asking all employers to follow the law and do the right thing. Let us work together to build St. Maarten, and not exploit our workers," said Minister of Public Health Social Development & Labor, Cornelius De Weever.

WILLEMSTAD, Curacao:--- On 22 January 2013, over 30 volunteers from the U.S. Forward Operating Location (USFOL) visited the Christoffel National Park. Hiking from the Visitors Center to the summit of Mount Christoffel for several hours, they cleared 5 bags of trash along this strenuous hiking trail to help enhance Curacao's natural beauty. This is part of their on-going effort to assist the National Park and the island overall in order to preserve its unique natural resources, so they can be enjoyed by all for years to come.

Marogot:--- The third Vice President of the Collectivity of St. Martin who is in charge of Urbanism was taken in by a special team of gendarmes on Tuesday and questioned. Reports reaching SMN News state that the vice president was held and questioned on the issuance of the AOT issued to Norbert Luftman in September 2012. The Gendarmes have refused to confirm the arrest of the elected official stating that the case is very sensitive. No other details on the ongoing investigation are available up to this time.

Environmental Protection in the Caribbean (EPIC) St. Maarten will host its second annual fundraising kayak tour of the Simpson Bay Lagoon on Sunday February 3rd. Participants will be able see and learn firsthand about the various habitats and wildlife found in the Lagoon. This excursion will provide participants with the opportunity to better understand and appreciate this very special place right in our backyard.

Participants will meet at 8:00 a.m. at Kim Sha beach in Simpson Bay, near Greenhouse restaurant, and visit seagrass beds and mangrove stands in the Lagoon before returning around 10:00 a.m. Experienced kayakers will be on hand to assist beginners and life vests are provided. Children over nine years old are welcome.

With sponsorship from Tri-Sport, EPIC is able to offer the kayak tour for just US $10 per person, allowing participants an affordable opportunity to see the Lagoon from an entirely new perspective. For more information call EPIC at 545-3009 or contact EPIC via its Facebook page www.facebook.com/epicislands.

EPIC Press Release

In our ongoing attempts to bring our Civil Aviation Dept. back to Category I (CAT-I) status, Minister Romeo F. Pantophlet has engaged the services of IASO (International Air Safety Office, Inc.) to perform a gap analysis.

The gap analysis is intended to identify the gaps in the present safety oversight function, and to thereafter develop a comprehensive corrective action plan. The corrective action plan would then be used as a roadmap and a benchmark in order for St. Maarten to regain the International Aviation Safety Assessment (IASA) Cat-I designation, and to thereafter maintain that designation.

IASO Inc. will work with the civil aviation authority in developing a model for a self-sustaining aviation system, similar to that of Aruba, which can be a new and innovative source of future revenue for St. Maarten.

The company that has been engaged, IASO Inc. to conduct the gap analysis and develop the corrective action plan has almost twenty years of aviation safety oversight experience and has successfully built a team of reputable and experienced aviation consultants in various fields. Their team of aviation consultants is comprised of former national aviation administration inspectors and surveyors, who hold vast knowledge of the field, and who are capable of delivering world-class consulting, regulatory, and technical services in compliance with ICAO, SARP's, EASA, FAA, Transport Canada, Brazil and other global civil aviation authorities. Also, IASO Inc. was instrumental in establishing Aruba's foreign registry for aircraft and also ensuring that Aruba maintained the IASA CAT-1 rating.

The IASO Inc. team was on St. Maarten during the week of January 21, 2013 to prepare their assessment. The assessment has been completed, and the IASO Inc. team met with the Minister and other Government officials in order to have a preliminary discussion of their findings on Monday, January 28, 2013, with the final report to be submitted within fifteen days of Monday.

Curacao, which previously performed the civil aviation oversight on behalf of St. Maarten, was downgraded to IASA CAT 2 in November of 2011 following an audit that was conducted by the Federal Aviation Administration of the civil aviation authority in Curacao. The IASA CAT-2 signifies that the authorities do not meet the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards when it comes to performing safety oversight on their respective civil aviation systems and as a consequence no new service to U.S can be operated by local carriers of neither St. Maarten or Curacao. In addition, local carriers are now unable to conclude code share agreements with U.S.-based carriers.

St. Maarten obtaining Category-1 status is important for the future viability and growth of our local civil aviation industry. This goal is therefore, a high priority for the civil aviation authority and as such Minister Pantophlet is exploring all possible avenues in order to ensure that St. Maarten attains the International Aviation Safety Assessment of CAT-I within the shortest time possible.

I support the call for drafting and subsequent approval of national laws towards the screening of ministers. This is a step in the right direction as we continue to move towards firmly establishing our executive and parliamentary 'footprint 'as a new 'country' within the kingdom of the Netherlands. We are looking forward to receive the draft law proposal during this first term of Parliament, and prior to the next polls are held.

This step should be a mature and non-partisan support towards having this important legislation passed once it reaches the floor of Parliament. Hopefully this can be done before prior to the next appointment of Ministers taking their oath of office.

The Prime Minister has already weighed in on this matter. Currently, an existing law taken over from the former country known as the Netherlands Antilles was adopted and the procedure followed when our Ministers were sworn in back in October 2010.

It is important that we encourage and have integrity at all levels of our public administration including both at the Executive (Council of Ministers) as well as at the Legislative (Parliament) branch.

Gracita Arrindell
United People's (UP) party
Member of Parliament

The Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) is pleased to announce that the 2013 edition of the CTO-TravelMole Sustainable Tourism Awards competition is now open to receiving nominations.
These CTO-TravelMole annual Awards are aimed at identifying and showcasing Sustainable Tourism Good Practices in the Caribbean. The awards recognize individuals, groups, organizations or companies in any of the CTO Member Countries which have developed unique and attractive tourism products or are engaged in implementing sustainable tourism-related initiatives which embrace sustainable tourism concepts and core values. These initiatives should also help to enhance the country's tourism product offerings and advance sustainable and responsible tourism in the Caribbean.
Information on the Award categories and the application process can be accessed via a link on the http://www.onecaribbean.org homepage. Completed nomination forms and any supporting photos are to be uploaded by March 1st , 2013, via:
http://www.onecaribbean.org/programs/ctosustainable/travelmoleuploads.aspx;
We encourage you to assist us in promoting these Awards widely to your stakeholders and we look forward to receiving your nominations. We also to wish to remind you that for the overall Caribbean Excellence in Sustainable Tourism Award only one nomination can be submitted by each CTO member country.
Should you have any questions about the awards or the nomination process, please contact Gail Henry, CTO Sustainable Tourism Product Specialist at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.; copied to Alicia Serrao at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or by phone (246) 427-5242 Ext. 2230.

The Court in First Instance Bonaire, St. Eustatius, Saba convened in the Government Guesthouse in St. Eustatius to hear the appeals against the Amendment Plan NuStar Terminals St. Eustatius. With the Amendment Plan, the Executive Council of St. Eustatius tried to change the Spatial Development Plan of the island for the construction of a new oil storage facility right next to Oranjestad and within the flight path of the airport.

The Amendment Plan was later withdrawn by the Executive Council. Mr. B.G. Hofman, legal representative of the St. Eustatius Executive Council, therefore asked the judge to declare the cases inadmissible or without grounds. However, the four parties who filed an appeal made it clear to the judge that their appeals are explicitly directed against three things. Two of these were part of the Amendment Plan that has been withdrawn. But the third is the particular use by the Executive Council of article 40.1 of the Spatial Development Plan. This part of the appeal still stands as it is not part of the Amendment Plan itself.

The appeals were filed by Mr. R.C. Hook, Ms. Linda Berkel, Mr. Lennard Sprott and the Statia Safe & Sound Foundation (SSS). Present at the court session were Ms. Berkel, Mr. Sprott and on behalf of SSS Walter Hellebrand, "Joshua" Spanner and Olga Schats-van Driessen (also representing Messrs. Hook).

The four plaintiffs explained to the judge that the Executive Council used article 40.1 of the Spatial Development Plan in a way that vastly exceeds the purpose of that article and that without a condemnation by the Court of this interpretation of the article, their legal security will be severely compromised. As Mr. Sprott explained in his plea: "Otherwise the situation may arise that I come home from a medical procedure in Colombia only to find that without anybody discussing this with me before, I will have 30 meter high oil tanks next to my fence."

Mr. Hellebrand commented that he was pleasantly surprised to see that there was a real Court in session since according to the letters sent to the plaintiffs by the Court they were all summoned to attend a hearing by the Court of First Instance Bonaire Sint Eustatius Aruba, a court that does not exist. A Court with the name of Saba on the end does.

The judge, Mr. R. van Veen, will announce his verdict on 19 February.

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- The Collective Preventive Services (CPS), a government agency under the Ministry of Public Health is requesting physicians to be on the alert to the presenting symptoms and to order the necessary lab tests.

Dengue symptoms which are similar to the flu symptoms can include fever, headache, muscle and joint pains; nausea/vomiting; rash and hemorrhagic manifestations. If you have these symptoms ask your physician to request a lab test for dengue, avoid pain relievers that contain aspirin and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications.

The aforementioned information is essential and vital to the Ministry of Public Health in determining the public health situation of the nation and to strategically plan its response to the identified risk.

For the period of January 1st to January 28th, 2013, CPS has received reports of 36 clinical cases fitting the Dengue Fever case definition, of these 14 were confirmed as Dengue Fever. Based on the reported numbers and the reported Dengue situation by our French colleagues who have announced that they are entering into the beginning of Epidemic phase, CPS will be in alert mode and will continue to monitor the developments of reported numbers.

Officials from the Ministry of Public Health attended a meeting with French officials on Monday at the Prefecture to discuss the dengue situation and to review the reported numbers and actions for both sides.

Last week CPS announced that the country diagnosed 35 cases of dengue fever compared to 22 in 2011, and according to CPS, this signals a potential risk if the mosquito population grows and requested the community to be proactive in keeping their environment free of mosquito breeding sites.

CPS maintains its message from last week - it is necessary for the community to continue to take measures on the elimination of mosquito breeding sources throughout the year. Let us be proactive and not wait until the numbers increase to take action.

Dengue Fever is transmitted by the female vector Aedes Aegypti mosquito. The Aedes Aegypti mosquito is distinguished by its markings. The body of the mosquito has alternate black and white horizontal stripes. The Aedes Aegypti mosquito lays her eggs in clear (clean) stagnant water. Within eight days the mosquito can complete its life cycle from egg, to larvae to pupae and to and adult mosquito.

CPS is calling on the community to implement mosquito preventive measures in order to prevent vector borne diseases.

Measures should be taken in and around the workplace, social gatherings and living quarters to eliminate mosquito breeding sources.

Minister of Public Health Hon. Cornelius de Weever, 'Get Checked" campaign, is in line with CPS's appeal for residents and business owners, to check-in and around their homes and businesses in order to reduce breeding sites of the Aedes Aegypti mosquito.

An increase in the mosquito population puts residents at risk. For information about dengue fever prevention measures, you can call CPS at 542-2078 or 542-3003.

Philipsburg:--- The Common Court of Appeals will pronounce its verdict on the summons that was issued to the main murder suspect that confessed to killing American citizens Micheal and Thelma King on February 20th, 2013. Michael and Thelma King were murdered in their Cupe Coy condominium on September 19th, 2012. The main suspect Meyshane Kemar Johnson will remain in custody until the verdict is rendered.

Attorney at Law Brenda Brooks appealed the ruling of the judge of the Court of First Instance who ruled that the summons that was issued three days before the suspect was due to appear in court was null void but in her ruling the judge stated that Meyshane Kemar Johnson will remain in pretrial detention, while Attorney at Law Brenda Brooks feels that her client should be released from pre-trial detention. At the appeal hearing on Wednesday, Attorney General of St. Maarten Taco Stein told the panel consisting of three judges that the only reason Brooks appealed the verdict was to stall the criminal proceedings. Stein said that the prosecution had three weeks in which they could repair the damage they caused to the case but because Brooks appealed the case that hindered the proceedings. Stein explained that the lower court already ruled that the summons was null and void.

The President of the Appeals Court asked the suspect Meyshane Kemar Johnson on more than one occasion why he appealed the decision rendered by the lower court because it was in his favor. Johnson at some point could not answer the questions posed to him but finally he told the judge that he felt that his rights as a suspect were violated by the Prosecution.

In making her case to the Appeals Court, Attorney at Law Brenda Brooks told the court that while the Court of First Instance ruled that the summons was null and void, the judge did not release her client. Brooks cited at least four cases, three of which were tried in Curacao and one in the Netherlands where the judges in those cases clearly ruled that the summons were declared inadmissible. Brooks in her plea to the Court asked the judges what is different on St. Maarten in this case. The Netherlands and Curacao deemed these acts inadmissible why is it different here when the laws are the same. "What is happening here is the Prosecution made errors upon errors and they want to keep my client throughout the process for the First Instance and when the case reaches you in the Appeals Court you will have to rule that mistakes were made and the summons are inadmissible."

Brooks also asked the court to forget about the seriousness of the case because if it was that serious the Prosecutor's Office would have followed proper procedures to ensure that justice is served. Brooks asked the court to look at the procedures that were used in the case compared to what is stated in case laws. The cases Brooks quoted were also serious cases and the judges in Curacao and the Netherlands applied the law. She told the court that "murder is murder", it does not matter if it involves one or two people and what must be applied is the law and not emotions.

Brooks told the Appeal Courts that the judge in the Court of First Instance gave the prosecution an opportunity to repair the damage they caused in the first place but instead of fixing the problem the Prosecutor's Office created more problems. Brooks showed the court the two other summons that were issued to her client. The President of the Appeals Court told Brooks that those summons were not up for discussion but Brooks maintained that she had to bring in the other summons that were given to her client to show the court exactly why she chose to appeal the decision rendered on the first summons. At the hearing on Wednesday was the Head of the Detective Department Denise Jacob, and several other high ranking officers. Among the people in the packed court tribune were several friends of the victims Micheal and Thelma King all of whom were wearing photo tags and buttons in support of the victims whose lives were snatched away from them.

Dutch Prosecutor Disturbed Hearing in Open Session --- Opened War Against SMN News Reporter.

Also in court was Dutch Prosecutor Gonda van der Wulp who attended the session as a guest but chose to sit where reporters are supposed to sit. When SMN News reporter reached the court, the seats for reporters were taken up by Gonda Van der Wulp. SMN News reporter chose to sit behind Prosecutor Van der Wulp and at times leaned forward in order to hear what was being said during the proceedings. Prosecutor Van der Wulp chose to disturb the entire proceedings when she began screaming at SMN News reporter saying that reporters are not allowed to take photographs in court. It must be noted that while SMN News reporter had her camera around her neck, the camera was off and no photographs were being taken in court. Wednesday's court session is not the first this media house has covered and it is clear that the prosecutors that are currently working on St. Maarten are on the edge because the incompetencies of the Prosecutor's Office are now being exposed.

The actions of Van der Wulp on Wednesday clearly portrayed racism and someone who has an axe to grind against a reporter who chose to expose the incompetencies of the Prosecutor's Office where she is working. Even though a police officer asked SMN News reporter to leave the court room, the question still remains why Van der Wulp a Dutch Prosecutor who is being paid by St. Maarten tax payers was allowed to stay inside the court room while she is the one who created a big scene and lied in public.

Philipsburg:--- Minister of Finance Roland Tuitt announced on Wednesday at the Council of Ministers' weekly press briefing that the CFT wants the government of St. Maarten to cut another 25 million guilders out of the 2013 budget before they approve it. Minister Tuitt said his Ministry is currently working on the cuts which would affect all seven Ministries, this amendment he said will be done by the end of the week and hopefully after the CFT approves the budget it will go to Parliament for approval before the end of February 2013.

The Finance Minister also made clear that while he as Minister of Finance is discussing or having disagreements on how the CFT functions, that does not mean they are having a bad relationship. He said as Minister of Finance for St. Maarten he has to ensure that the same rules are being applied and that the rules the CFT is using are understood. "My contention with the CFT is that it should be made clear what measures they are using to control and audit the budget of St. Maarten. I need to know what criteria the CFT is using to audit the budget. When I know the rules and criteria then I will know how to work and what to present to the CFT when making the 2014 budget. The aim right now is to cut the budget by 25 million guilders and that process should be completed by Friday this week." Tuitt said the Ministry of Finance already did the cutting in its Ministry and on Thursday and Friday he plans to sit with the other Ministries to make the cuts in those other Ministries in order to comply with the CFT. Tuitt said when this procedure is finalized he expects the CFT to live up to its promise and approve the budget so it can be sent to Parliament for approval.

The Finance Minister also explained that while he is doing what the CFT wants, he will ensure that he gets from the CFT their criteria and rules they are using to audit the budget of St. Maarten. Tuitt said he is ready to walk the necessary road in order to get clarity so that when he is preparing the budget for 2014 he will not have these issues with the CFT.

It should be noted that Minister of Finance Roland Tuitt was a former member of the CFT prior to St. Maarten becoming a country. When asked on Wednesday what criteria and rules were used when he was on CFT board back then compared to now, Tuitt said when he was on the CFT board there were two accountants (he being one of them) and they made some suggestions to the CFT board and to date those suggestions are not taken into consideration or even reflected on how the budgets are being audited. Tuitt said that is the reason he will continue to make his case even though he is complying with the requests of the CFT to cut the 2013 budget by 25 million guilders. One example Tuitt gave reporters on Wednesday is the Advisory Council who just recently sent him an advise on the road tax amendments, they were able to include in their summary the criteria and measures they used to evaluate the legislation on the road tax. "The Advisory Council made clear that they got together with all the other Advisory Councils from the different countries in the Kingdom and they came to an agreement that they will apply the same rules and regulations when evaluating laws. This is what I am asking the CFT to give me. The budget is a law and I need to know as Minister what rules and criteria they are using for the evaluation. I need the CFT to put on the table what they expect from me so I can work." Tuitt further explained that he sat down twice with the CFT prior to presenting the 2013 budget and he asked them to provide him with their requirements in order for them to accept the budget when it is sent to them. "During those meetings they told me X and I did X plus Y and still it is not to their satisfaction, that is why I need them to tell me what rules and criteria they are using to evaluate the budget of St. Maarten."

The Finance Minister said the financial statements for 2011 are its final stages and it will be sent to the SOAB early February so they could start their auditing process. Tuitt said when the SOAB finishes their task they will then send on the statements to the Audit Chamber for them to work on it before it is sent to Parliament. The Finance Minister said that the 2010 financial statements are currently enroute to Parliament for finalization.

When asked what the government feels about the statements made by the CFT last week during their press conference where they said that St. Maarten can no longer use the excuse that St. Maarten is a young country and that the situation of debt relief can no longer be a discussion, Tuitt said as a responsible country he will never use excuses that St. Maarten is a young country instead he is doing what is expected of government. Tuitt said whether or not a country is young or old government officials have to do what they are elected to do. Tuitt further explained that the division of assets is now stagnated and they are now in the process of moving the division of assets forward. Tuitt said several of the issues that are of concern to St. Maarten will be discussed with the Netherlands.

Philipsburg:--- Minister of Finance Roland Tuitt announced on Wednesday at the Council of Ministers' weekly press briefing that vehicle owners have until February 28th, 2013 to pay their annual road tax for the year 2013. Tuitt said that the new date is stipulated in the legislation that is currently being worked on.

Minister Tuitt made clear that while several persons have been asking questions regarding the changes made to the road tax payment, no significant changes were made to the process. Vehicle owners will save Naf. 12.50 since they no longer have to pay for a new number plate. Tuitt said that his government whose slogan is "Working for the People" have saved vehicle owners Naf. 12.50 on their road tax payment each year, monies which they could use to buy sandwiches.

Minister Tuitt further explained that the only thing that was done is that the payment procedures have been simplified and government will apply more stringent and stricter measures to ensure that the road tax payments are made before the deadline. The Finance Minister said the legislation for the payment procedure will soon be finalized. Tuitt said just two days ago he received the advice from the Advisory Council who made quite a few comments in relation to the changes in the legislation. He said right now his Ministry along with his legal advisors are busy looking at the comments made by the Advisory Council to see if they need to adapt anything else prior to sending it to Parliament.

Adhering to no fishing rules of the Marine Park important to rebuilding local fish stocks.

The St. Maarten Nature Foundation recently removed fish traps which were placed illegally inside of the Man of War Shoal Marine Park. The fish traps or fish pots were well within the Marine Park, close to the Fishbowl Dive Site. Nature Foundation staff noticed the fish traps during a routine patrol in the Marine Park and removed the illegally placed traps from the ocean. The traps contained endangered fish which were still alive and were successfully returned back to the ocean. "As the legally mandated Management Authority for the Man of War Shoal Marine Park we removed the fish traps from within the Marine Park. It is listed within the rules of the Marine Park that no fishing is allowed, including trap fishing. We have a close working relationship with fishermen when it comes to the Man of War Shoal Marine Park and would like this to continue. However if we notice illegal activities within the Marine Park this will be addressed, including the removal of fish traps," read a Nature Foundation statement.
The boundaries of the Marine Park are between 18̊ ̊N and 17 ̊-57.0 N and 63 ̊-01.03 W and 63 ̊-04.05 W, in an area better known as "the Proselyte Reef Complex ". This area includes the island's most ecologically and economical important marine habitat, including extensive coral reef areas and seagrass beds. The Man of War Shoal Marine Park, officially established on the 30th of December 2010, is a home and migratory stop over or breeding site for 3 IUCN Red List Species, 10 CITES Appendix I species and 89 Appendix II species. It is an area with a relatively healthy population of marine mammals including migratory whales and dolphins, numerous species of shark, sea turtles and numerous fish species. Studies conducted by the St. Maarten Nature Foundation have shown that biodiversity in this area, particularly coral reef density, is high and the economic goods and services which the ecosystem provides are in excess of fifty million dollars annually." It has been shown that no-fishing areas have resulted in an increase in fish stock. Therefore it is also in the interest of fishermen to adhere to the no catch rules of the Marine Park," continued the Foundation.
The owner of the fish trap can reclaim his property at the Nature Foundation offices in Cole Bay. The Foundation urges all fishermen to not fish in the Marine Park in order to avoid their materials being removed. If the trap is not collected it will be donated to a group of local fishermen the Nature Foundation has been working with to control the Lionfish Invasion.

The MHF is embarking on an effort to collect data regarding the disease burden of psychiatric disorders on St. Maarten. This will help with planning for the future. The topic of the Research is : "School prevalence of select childhood psychiatric disorders in St. Maarten". Other contributors towards this project are the American University of the Caribbean (Medical school), University of Louisville Kentucky USA, and Parnassia Bavo Group in the Netherlands. During the New Years reception at The Mental Health Foundation last Friday The Rotary Club of St. Maarten donated 10 Sony ICD- AX412 Digital Flash Memory Voice Recorders which will be used in the process of collecting data. As the presentation was being made, club members were honored to be joined by his Excellency Governor Eugene Holiday as a former member of the Rotary Club of St. Maarten and now an honorary member. The Rotary Club of St. Maarten continues to raise funds particularly for youth community projects. Last year the grand fundraising held on the Oasis of the Seas raised funds for Youth Leadership and this year again funds raised in the Valentines Day Car Raffle February 14th, 2013 will also go toward projects related to special needs children as well as youth and other community service projects.

Her Majesty Queen Beatrix's declaration that she will abdicate in favor of Crown Prince Willem-Alexander on April 30 next made a great impression. As her representative in our young country I express my highest appreciation to Queen Beatrix for the exceptional way in which she gave content to the Kingship throughout the Kingdom. Through her wisdom, strength and profound interest in everyone she came into contact with, she nurtured and embodied a special bond with the people, as evidence during her most recent visit to Sint Maarten in November 2011. Having listened to her declaration I feel assured of her continued involvement for the people and at the same time look forward with confidence to welcoming the Crown Prince Willem-Alexander as future King and princes Maxima as future Queen.

Press Release from Governor's Cabinet

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Philipsburg Jubilee Library (PJL) is hosting its annual Black History month celebration under the theme "Grafting Roots: Passing on the Legacy".
This year the primary focus will be on the achievements of St. Maartener's in three areas, namely Painting, Dance and Literature. PJL's exhibitions will showcase the passing on of knowledge between the elders and younger generations and how it is imperative to the survival of St. Maarten's legacy.
According to Morenika Arrindell, PJL Activity Manager, each elder who will be highlighted in the exhibitions, have served key roles in sharing their talents with the world and in particular the youth of St. Maarten.
"Their contributions have spurred young, talented St. Maartener's to explore their own creativity and have motivated them to consider creating and passing on legacies of their own," Arrindell said.
Arrindell said that each elder has been paired with a person from a younger generation who has also made steps to create a legacy of her or his own in that same genre.
"So for example Ruby Bute is paired with Lucinda Audain in terms of painting, though this could also have been done in terms of their poetry. Lasana Sekou has been paired with Deborah Drisana Jack for their literary contributions to St. Maarten and Clara Reyes has been paired with her protégée Rudolph Davis," Arrindell explained.
Bute's selection for painting comes as a result of her continuous efforts in the preservation of St. Maarten's culture, through her paintings, as well as her commitment to the mentorship of upcoming artists, are exemplary. Audain selection is a result of her emerging presence as a young, dynamic painter on the St. Maarten art scene. Both the paintings of Bute and Audain will be exhibited for the entire month of February in PJL's lobby.
Audain, who is also the founder of Funtopia, a company geared towards family entertainment, with face and body painting as one of its main services, will be giving free workshops in the PJL lobby, on Saturdays, February 2 and 9. These workshops cover face and body painting and are open for all persons who are interested in learning the craft. The workshops will briefly highlight the history of face and body painting and its current recognition as an art form. Audain will teach a few of the basic line strokes and promises that all who return for the follow-up session on February 9 are in for a major treat. Audain said she plans to choose a willing participant to serve as the model for a full body painting demonstration.
The general public is invited to attend this first installment of PJL's Black History Month Celebrations with our first featured workshop artist, Lucinda Audain, on Saturdays, February 2 & 9 from 11:00am – 12:00pm. For more information please contact the Philipsburg Jubilee Library at 542-2970 or email us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

It is important to note that despite my resignation and departure as the Director of PSS that the continuation of the organization is safeguarded and key facts established and presented.

Country within the Dutch Kingdom, St. Maarten, has a Universal Service Obligation (USO) that it has to fulfill, and every citizen is entitled to have access to a postal system.

The universal mission and that of PSS is to provide the general public with trusted, affordable, universal postal service. While other carriers might offer delivery on a universal basis, the Postal Service is still the only carrier obligated to provide all aspects of universal service at affordable prices. That last mile full service obligation makes it very challenging financially, not just for PSS but for most Post Offices throughout the world.

Growth in our local population paired with a sharp increase in the number of delivery points have led to a significant increase in the Postal Service's fixed costs, while over the last few years; volumes have taken a very visible downward turn.

Recent economic trends account for a good share of that downturn. So, too, does the acceleration of electronic diversion. Increasingly, personal correspondence is sent via the internet, financial statements arrive online, and bills are received and paid electronically. Online alternatives have become more prominent for news publications and advertising, and competition thrives in the package delivery arena locally. While PSS may have a limited statutory monopoly, the reality is that there are alternatives to every piece of mail.

With this key background established, it is fundamentally important against this backdrop that the three (3) statutory bodies that govern the functioning of PSS works effectively and in harmony together to ensure not only that PSS can achieve its defined goals, but also fulfill its universal obligation, successfully. The three bodies, being the Shareholder Representative, the Supervisory Board and the Managing Board always has to put the organization and its needs first, and not make the matter a personal one or allow trivial matters to affect its operations and growth potential. All in all like all other Government owned entities; PSS belongs to the people of St. Maarten.

As such all parties need to be thinking on how to make PSS a better serving and profitable operating company, by being willing to assist it however and wherever way necessary in the short term to ensure its long term survivability, independence and profitability. To ensure the post will be around for years to come, we must be willing to transform the post and differentiate the level of products offered. Crucial decisions will have to be made, and all parties will have to fulfill their prescribed roles, to realize this dream and live to see the day when PSS can not only give back to our local community, but also pay dividends!

As I move on further with my professional career, through this means and on behalf of PSS, I say thank you to the entire community of St. Maarten for supporting your post office throughout, and for your business. As a young Postal Administration we still have ways to go to better improve on our services offered to the community, but step by step PSS will get there. And lastly to my staff that I am leaving behind, I say thank you, much strength and success, and to the yet to be appointed Director also much success and strength as he/she takes over the mantle, continuing to lead PSS team and unit that has a lot of potential that I along with my team was able to establish and put on the world map, cementing yet another corner stone of our young and upcoming country St. Maarten. May the good Lord continue to bless us all.

PSS Press Release

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Permanent Parliamentary Committee for Kingdom Affairs and Inter-parliamentary Relations will meet on January 30.

The Permanent Parliamentary Committee meeting is scheduled for Wednesday morning at 10:00am in the General Assembly Chamber of the House of Parliament at Wilhelmina Straat #1 in Philipsburg.

The agenda concerns preparations for the Inter-parliamentary Kingdom Meeting that will be held in The Hague, the Netherlands from March 5 to 8, 2013.

The points to be discussed in the meeting are to establish who will be part of the delegation that will travel to The Hague; the status of workgroups; and working visits.

The Central Committee meeting concerning the establishment of a Dutch military presence on the island is still scheduled for January 30 at 2:00pm in the General Assembly Chamber of the House of Parliament at Wilhelmina Straat #1 in Philipsburg.

An additional agenda point has been added, related to the proposed cooperation agreement between the parliaments of Aruba, Curacao, and Sint Maarten, that was signed on January 28, 2013.

Brigadier General D.A. Swijgman of the Netherlands Naval Command in the Caribbean, Directorate of the Dutch Caribbean Coast Guard and Task Group 4.4, will be informing members of parliament about the deployment of Royal Dutch Marines to the country and the location of the Marine base that is to be established.

Members of the public are always welcome to be present in the General Assembly Chamber during public meetings to follow the parliamentary session scheduled for that particular day.

The House of Parliament is located across from the Court House.

The parliamentary sessions will be carried live on St. Maarten Cable TV Channel 120, via Pearl Radio FM 98.1, the audio via the Internet www.pearlfmradio.com, and also via www.sxmparliament.org.

Philipsburg:--- The Landsrecherche is now working on the Election Fraud case that involves the United Peoples Party leader Theodore Heyliger, three police officers, and a civil servant working at the Philipsburg Police Station.

SMN News broke the story over two years ago about the officers who took a police vehicle in 2010 and went to the United Peoples Party campaign headquarters in Pointe Blanche and picked up four envelopes each containing $300.00 for the officers who according to information provided to SMN News collected the monies from the UP leader in exchange for their votes. Three of the four law enforcement workers decided to cheat one of their colleagues by opening the envelope that was meant for him/her and shared the monies among themselves. The greed on the part of the three cops caused a huge argument inside the Police Station shortly after the incident occurred. The argument is what led the Police Management team led by Chief Commissioner of Police Peter de Witte to order an internal investigation.

SMN News learnt that the four culprits working as law enforcement officers confessed to Police Internal Affairs that they were paid monies in exchange for their votes. That file was submitted to the Landsrecherche for further investigation and possible prosecution but the file was placed on the shelves of the Landsrecherche and was not touched.

SMN News learnt that the case was not investigated because of political influence because the UP/DP Government was supported by one Independent Member who held the Justice portfolio.

On several occasions SMN News asked about the election fraud case which is long overdue and each time the Prosecutor's Office would say the case is not set as one of their priority cases and another excuse was that the Landsrecherche was short staffed.

On Monday SMN News contacted Chief Prosecutor Hans Mos for an update on the case because we learnt that the detectives working at the Landsrecherche recently started to work on the case, Mos confirmed on Monday that indeed the case is now being investigated but declined to say how far the investigation is.


Draft Report on Piranha Investigation not completed.

SMN News also asked Chief Prosecutor Hans Mos for an update on the Piranha investigation that landed former Minister of Finance Hiro Shigemoto in pretrial detention one week before the Christmas Holidays. Mos said the Landsrecherche is finishing the final draft report on the Piranah Investigation. At the time Shigemoto was arrested, Mos said the former Minister was suspected of fraud, forgery, and he was also suspected of breaking government rules while paying double for services provided by Global Advisory Services.

It should be noted that prior to the arrest of Shigemoto the Chief Financial Officer and co-Manager of WINAIR Roberto Gibbs was also arrested for fraud, money laundering, and forgery. Roberto Gibbs is the owner of Global Advisory Services and his company was used to provide workers for government. Mos told SMN News in earlier interviews that Gibbs double charged government for the services he provided.
While it was widely rumored that the Piranha investigation started when former head of finance Bas Roorda provided lots of information to the Prosecutor's office claiming that several top civil servants and former commissioner were involved in abusing government funds, only now the Prosecutor's Office chose to investigate the cases and at least two arrests were made. Another person whose name made the headlines and was even suspended from her job is the former Head of the Tourist Office Regina Labega and her colleague Edward Dest. The Prosecutor's Office started that investigation early last year but somehow they stopped it claiming they do not have the financial experts available to them to continue the investigation. When SMN News contacted Mos about this he said that the services of SOAB was hired to finalize the financial part of the investigation but to date nothing more has been said about the investigation.

Philipsburg:--- President of the Windward Islands Teachers Union (WITU) Claire Elshot announced on Tuesday during the Windward Islands Chamber of Labour Unions' (WICLU) weekly press conference that the WITU board members election is scheduled for this Thursday January 31st, 2013 at 6pm at the WIFOL building on Pondfill Road.

The incumbent President said that there are at least six positions that have to be filled including the Presidency. Elshot said she already postulated for the position while three new persons postulated to become members of the WITU. Elshot said members of the WITU that are eligible to vote have to be registered members of the union whose dues are up to date. She further explained that the WITU chose Thursday as the day for their elections in order to accommodate their members at the Seventh Day Adventist School.

FZOG are Gangsters, where are our elected officials?

In responding to questions posed by reporters regarding the recent developments where pensioners are receiving letters from FZOG claiming they owe the organization that was set up for pensioners to obtain health benefits, Elshot said she is aware of the situation because at least two persons contacted her and showed her the letters FZOG sent out to them in Papiamento informing them that they owe FZOG and they are requested to pay the outstanding amount FZOG claims they owe. Elshot described the situation as a gangster style where an organization is trying to rip off the most vulnerable. She said that St. Maarten became a country within the Kingdom three years ago and St. Maarten has its own pensioners institution (APS) and to receive these letters now from FZOG is shameful. "One person showed me a letter where it states that the person visited Dr. Mercelina three times and that doctor is not working on St. Maarten for a number of years now."

Elshot called on the persons who received the letters to just "freeze" them because the WITU/WICLU will be sending a letter to FZOG. Elshot said she also would like to know what the elected officials such as the Minister of Health, Labour, and Social Welfare is doing about the matter.

Education International Focused on Haiti's Recovery and its Impact on Public Education.

The President of the WITU Claire Elshot also gave an update on her trip to Haiti where she attended the Education International (EI) conference. The EI conference took place last week where a number of issues regarding the enhancing of public education were discussed. Elshot said some 14 units attended the round table conference, including the CNEH, NEA, AFT, CTF, CSQ, SNES, and EI.

Elshot told reporters that during the conference an analysis was done on Haiti's current situation and she managed to use the opportunity to inform those that attended the conference of how far St. Maarten has come after the island was completely destroyed.

Teachers not pleased with February days off.

Elshot also gave reporters an update on the meeting the union had with the Minister of Education Silveria Jacobs to discuss various issues that are affecting the WITU members. One of those issues is the two days off teachers receive during the month of February. Elshot said since last year the WITU submitted a request to the Minister of Education to have the vacation schedule modified because during these two days some teachers use the time to visit their families as well as go to their respective countries for carnival. She said to her surprise she learnt during the meetings that the vacation schedules were made up for a three year period and the various school boards were given the schedule in advance for feedback, Elshot said none of the school boards ever received such a schedule for discussion. She said she checked with the various school boards and they all told her they never received it. Besides that, Elshot said because of this teachers will find creative ways to get the days they want off including the two days that government set aside which is the 7&8th February, 2013. "The carnival parade is scheduled for the 10th so the teachers will find ways to take the days they want to go and have their family reunions as well as enjoy carnival in their countries."

WITU Submits Motion to have Vacation Allowance Equalized.

The President of the WITU also told reporters on Tuesday that the union has submitted a motion with 400 signatures requesting that there vacation allowances be increased from 6% to 8% as of this year. Elshot all the countries within the Kingdom are paying their teachers 8% while St. Maarten teachers only receive 6%. "We are not asking for retroactive payment. All we want is to be treated equally like our brothers and sisters in Curacao, BES, and Aruba therefore we see no reason why the CFT would not allow government to add a mere 2% to the teachers vacation allowance." Elshot said while a copy of the motion was presented to the Minister of Education Silveria Jacobs, a copy was also deposited at General Affairs which is to be sent to the Council of Ministers.

SOUTH REWARD:--- St. Dominic High School Student Council on Thursday last emerged champions of the fifth annual Interscholastic Board Games Competition hosted by the United Student Government Front (USGF).
Close to 50 students from a number of high schools on the south side of the island converged at Milton Peters College to exhibit their skills at chess, checkers, and dominoes. There were individual winners in each category, as well, but it was the blue and green clad scholars who racked up the most points to walk away with the trophy donated by Personalized Creations. Host school, MPC copped second place, while St. Maarten Academy's academic campus came in at third place.
In the game of chess, Isaiah Escallier of St. Dominic High took the lead, beating out rivals Ryan Fong of Milton Peters College, and John Joseph of Sundial School, who placed second and third, respectively.
Wilfred Dunker and Arion St. Clair of St. Maarten Academy's academic campus slammed their way into first place in dominoes, leaving Andrew Peterson and Joseph Toussaint of St. Dominic High; and Alvin Martin and Maribel Fleming from Milton Peters College to settle for second and third places, respectively.
But MPC rebounded in the game of checkers when they sent up Melissa Cloose who secured the top spot over Anthony Rogers of St. Dominic High and Malik Deacon St. Maarten Academy PSVE.
All categories of winners were able to go home with prizes donated by KFC, Pizza Hut, Domino's Pizza, Family Book Store, Carousel, Vandorp, Shipwreck Shops, and Computer World. Annual sponsor for the event, BIMACO, ensured that all participants had snacks throughout the afternoon.
Three lucky students were also the recipients of three raffle draws, earning them a two-piece KFC dinner, a $10 Carousel voucher, and a book from Family Book Store. USGF was extremely grateful to this year's sponsors, especially Personalized Creations, since this was the first year a trophy was up for grabs.

Philipsburg:--- Minister of Public Health Social Development & Labor, Cornelius De Weever recently met with newly appointed CEO and Board Director of Seven Seas Water Corporation, Robert Dixon. They discussed various matters relating to water production here on St. Maarten, especially the new water tanks, which will be built in the Point Blanche area.

PHILIPSBURG:--- On Monday, January 28, 2013, Her Majesty Queen Beatrix announced to the Kingdom of the Netherlands via television and radio broadcast her abdication. His Royal Highness the Prince of Orange is the successor to the throne.

President of Parliament Hon. drs. Rodolphe Samuel on behalf of the Parliament of Sint Maarten, says that Her Majesty Queen Beatrix has served as Queen of all the people in the Kingdom of the Netherlands for almost 33 years, and thanks her for over three decades of service to the people.

"Her Majesty will be remembered by the people of Sint Maarten for her dedication and care for the Dutch Caribbean during her reign, and also as one of the Europe's longest-serving monarchs.

"Country Sint Maarten will welcome as it has always done members of the Royal Family, and in this case the new King and Queen, a new generation of Royalty who will reign over the Kingdom.

"We are ecstatic to welcome them, and on April 30, 2013, the nation will be following the ceremony as Queen Beatrix eldest son Prince Willem-Alexander will ascend to the throne," President of Parliament Hon. Rodolphe Samuel said on Monday.

Beatrix was crowned Queen on April 30, 1980. Prince Willem-Alexander will become King on April 30, 2013 and Princes Maxima Queen.

Prince Willem-Alexander will be the Netherlands first King since Willem III died in 1890.

The Minister of Justice Roland Duncan recently stated that Sint Maarten procedures are too formalistic where procedures are being more cumbersome than those in the Netherlands.

The Minister's comments were related to the process of the Brooks Tower Accord (BTA) which established a framework for those persons who lived on the island for years to regulate their immigration status. The Minister was reported to have said in a radio interview that all the other Ministries washed their hands of the BTA especially Social Affairs and how the people were treated like they were animals.

The Minister also added that the Civil Registry had to understand that birth certificates and marriage certificates don't change much, and that Social and Labour Affairs Departments decided to shut down the BTA category two process last November and not give the people the opportunity to complete the procedure to regulate their status.

Justice and Labour Ministry officials recently announced that the Immigration Mobile Unit (IMU)will begin shortly with checking businesses and other places to make sure workers have the proper documents to live and work on the island.

The Minister wants to avoid IMU officers being told by workers that they are waiting on papers or documents still being processed by the Labour Department or by Immigration.

The Minister also added the Social and Health Insurance SZV agency to his lists of entities that also delays the process of many people obtaining relevant documents to apply for permit renewals.

This is very disturbing with respect to the lack of coordination within the Government apparatus up to the end of December. We have to have all Ministries and Departments on-board in order to provide the best of service to the community.

We are a country now and we need to step up because we cannot blame anybody anymore for our inadequacies. The buck stops at each department and Ministry. It is in the interests of all, our citizens, including the business community and investors that we strive to provide the best services in a caring and professional manner.

It is the reputation of country Sint Maarten that is at stake. Let us all work together for a better Sint Maarten.

Sylvia Meyers
Interim Faction Leader United People's (UP) party

Looks forward to having His Royal Highness Prince Willem Alexander as Monarch of the Kingdom of the Netherlands.

The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams offered her well wishes and gratitude to Her Majesty Queen Beatrix on Monday after she learned that Her Majesty will be abdicating the throne as monarch of the Kingdom of the Netherlands.
The Prime Minister also congratulated His Royal Highness Prince Willem Alexander on his succession and mentioned that she both reflected fondly on the reign of her Majesty Queen Beatrix as well as looks forward to having Prince Willem Alexander as the new monarch for the Kingdom of the Netherlands. "I look back fondly on the reign of Her Majesty Queen Beatrix and her visits to what was then the Netherlands Antilles as well as to new country St. Maarten in 2011. I wish her well in the coming years and we hope to see her back on our islands sometime soon. Similarly I would like to congratulate His Royal Highness King Willem Alexander on his succession and look forward to having him as Monarch of the Kingdom of the Netherlands," commented the Prime Minister.
Queen Beatrix, who is approaching her 75th birthday and succeeded the throne in 1980, mentioned in a pre-recorded television broadcast that she will be stepping down on April 30th, Queen's Day. The Prime Minister concluded her comments on the abdication announcement by stating that Queen Beatrix has always had a fondness for the Dutch Caribbean and that her reign as Queen of the Kingdom of the Netherlands was one of close consultation with all the islands, including the Caribbean.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

Marigot:--- The Dengue Management Committee declared at a meeting on Monday at the Préfecture that St. Martin is currently in an epidemic phase due to several indicators and urges citizens to protect themselves.

The committee based its conclusion on the number of recognized cases since December 1 2012, the number of hospitalizations registered since the beginning of the year, the number of emergency room visits, and an outbreak of a Serotype 4 case.

An action plan has been put in place for surveillance, alert, and management of epidemics (PSAGE). Action will be taken on three fronts; general mosquito fogging with insecticide over the whole territory, intensifying awareness on measures to protect individuals from mosquito bites, and reinforcing surveillance on the epidemiological situation. Residents are encouraged to open doors and windows when the truck passes for greater effectiveness of the treatment.

To prevent breeding of the Aedes Aegypti mosquito, the following measures should be taken inside and outside the house:

Use repellent sprays and creams and wear long sleeve clothing and long pants in the evening; install mosquito nets on doors and windows and sleep with mosquito nets to prevent bites, especially to children and elderly persons; remove any stagnant water collecting anywhere in the yard or in the house i.e. from flower vases and old tyres etc; cover the water cistern with a mosquito net or breed the Golomine fish that eat the mosquito larvae; regularly clean out rain gutters especially after heavy rainfall.

More information on fighting Dengue can be obtained from Service de Lutte Antivectorielle (00590) 27 96 94 or (00590) 27 16 18.

Philipsburg:--- Telecoms provider, UTS, was once again voted favorite in The Daily Herald's annual 'Best Of' end-of-year readers poll. To celebrate this distinction and to thank the voting public, the company is offering two special offers starting today, January 29th 2013. For the customers of Chippie mobile services, the company will offer a reduced calling rate of only ANG 0.05 per minute all week to other Chippie customers. This special rate will apply between the hours of 5PM and 10PM. "This offer will be available to both our prepaid customers and postpaid customers and is our way of saying Thank You to those customers that select us as their mobile telecoms provider of choice," says UTS Marketing and Communications Officer, Ivy Lambert. "This year we will be celebrating the 10 year anniversary of our Chippie mobile brand, which means that we will be bringing many promotional offers and giveaways to our customers and the broader public as well. We look forward to another exciting year with lots of activities."

CaribServe Mobile Broadband internet is another service offering of UTS. The company will be offering a month of free service to anyone signing up for new CaribServe internet service. The offer is extended to anyone interested in the CaribServe 4G technology or the CaribServe Canopy service. "With planned expansions to new neighborhoods in the coming weeks and upgrades in capacity in existing 4G area's we expect to be able to grow our CaribServe 4G coverage in the coming year significantly. This is something we know many of our Canopy customers are excited about," says UTS Operations Manager, Leonardo Juan Pedro. "Our team has worked hard on making these expansions possible and we look forward to implementing the upgrades for our customers," Juan Pedro continues. The Caribserve offer will also be available starting tomorrow and will remain in effect for the entire month of February. More information about the above offers can be obtained through the UTS Contact Center at +1721 542 0101 or through Chippie SXM on Facebook.

For more information regarding the above release, feel free to contact the undersigned at any time for additional information.

Philipsburg:--- The President of the Parliament of St. Maarten Rodolphe Samuel met with the President of the Parliament of Aruba and the President of Parliament of Curacao on Monday. Marcolino (Mike) Franco is the President of Curacao's Parliament. Franco was accompanied by his Secretary General Silvin Cyntje.
The Aruban President of Parliament Paul Croes and his Secretary General Jacqueline Sherman also formed part of the delegation that visited St. Maarten on a working visit. The delegation paid a courtesy visit to the Government Administration Building where they met with the Prime Minister of St. Maarten Sarah Wescot Williams.

The delegation also paid a visit to the Governor of St. Maarten drs. Eugene Holiday.

Samuel then held a meeting with his visiting counterparts in the conference room at the House of Parliament. The main goal of this tri-partite president of parliament meeting was to bring the Parliaments of the Caribbean part of the Kingdom on the same page, and also promote cooperation between these Parliaments.

On Sunday January 27th at approximately 6:30pm, the Central Police Dispatch received a phone call from a female stating that she and her female friend had left from the Emilio Wilson Park that same afternoon at approximately 3:00pm for a hike through the hills to Pic Paradise on the French Side. During their hike it had become very dark and they had gotten lost and could not find their way back. The hiker also stated that they were lost somewhere in the hill above the Emilio Wilson Park. Immediately a search and rescue team consisting of eight police officers was put together. The officers did not hesitate and equipped with flashlights, machetes, rope, water, and a first-aid kit went into the darkness up the hill in search of the two lost hikers. The hikers used the light of their cell-phone to point –out their location. It took the officers approximately an hour and a half to locate and reach the hikers. The hikers with the initials O.K. and K.R. (both 24) both from the Netherlands were in good health and were brought down the hill by the officers which also took approximately an hour and a half. The hikers were very thankful to the police for coming to their rescue.

KPSM Police Report

Queen Beatrix of the Netherlands has announced she is abdicating in favour of her son, Prince Willem-Alexander.

In a pre-recorded address broadcast on TV, she said she would formally stand down on 30 April.

The queen, who is approaching her 75th birthday, said she had been thinking about this moment for several years and that now was "the moment to lay down my crown".

Queen Beatrix has been head of state since 1980, when her mother abdicated.

In the short televised statement, the queen said it was time for the throne to be held by "a new generation", adding that her son was ready to be king.

Prince Willem-Alexander, 45, is married to Maxima Zorreguieta, a former investment banker from Argentina, and has three young children.

He is a trained pilot and an expert in water management.

He will become the Netherlands' first king since Willem III, who died in 1890.

Speaking on television immediately after the abdication announcement, Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte paid tribute to the queen.

"Since her coronation... she has applied herself heart and soul for Dutch society," he said.
Abdication 'tradition'

Queen Beatrix is the sixth monarch from the House of Orange-Nassau, which has ruled the Netherlands since the early 19th Century.

Correspondents say she is extremely popular with most Dutch people, but her abdication was widely expected and will not provoke a constitutional crisis.

Under Dutch law, the monarch has few powers and the role is considered ceremonial.

In recent decades it has become the tradition for the monarch to abdicate.

Queen Beatrix's mother Juliana resigned the throne in 1980 on her 70th birthday, and her grandmother Wilhelmina abdicated in 1948 at the age of 68.

Queen Beatrix will be 75 on Thursday.

She has remained active in recent years, but her reign has also seen traumatic events.

In 2009 a would-be attacker killed eight people when he drove his car into crowds watching the queen and other members of the royal family in a national holiday parade.

In March last year her second son, Prince Friso, was struck by an avalanche in Austria and remains in a coma.

BBC News

UP faction in Parliament is condemning the way things are done with the House of Parliament. The running of Parliament is being carried out with no regard for protocol, nor procedures. Members of Parliament are not informed or notified after the fact too often. The so called Senioren Convent consisting of Faction leaders and independent Members of Parliament of which the UP faction is represented did not receive any official nor informal information as far as we can check with respect to the official visit of the Presidents of Parliament from Curacao and Aruba and the meeting planned for Monday, January 28, 2013.

This is a blatant disrespect for the House of Parliament, and insensitive to the people of Sint Maarten, especially since the current chair wasn't even elected by the people during the last election. Common courtesy by informing the members is the least this Chairman could have done.

Parliament had public meetings all week up until Friday evening January 26th last. Prior to handling any agenda points at the start of the meetings by way of notification, during or certainly prior to closing any of the meetings held last week, Parliament should have been informed of the pending visits.

As I pointed out before, we are on the wrong track and heading in the wrong direction.

To be clear, while we welcome both the Presidents of Parliament from Curacao and Aruba to our shores, at least the UP faction was not duly informed about the visit and nor are we aware of what will be discussed at the meeting, only what we read in the media Saturday.

On whose behalf did the Chairman of Parliament make the invitation? On behalf of the National Alliance faction, the three Independent members of parliament, the coalition, who? Again, even if it is a good idea which merits the invitation, it's the manner in which it is done, yet again, we do not appreciate and therefore object.

The UP faction will be seeking written clarification from the Chairman of Parliament on this matter. This is a blatant breach of confidence and of authority by Chairman Rodolphe Samuel.

The UP faction will be requesting all formal correspondence related to this issue.

Gracita Arrindell
United People's (UP) Party, Member of Parliament

Even though the Meteorological Department St. Maarten (MDS) as of January 1, 2013, have taken over meteorological services and the issuing of weather forecasts from the Meteorological Department of Curacao (MDC), Curacao's MDC is still responsible for night time services at MDS as MDS is not operational 24/7.

In addition, MDC during periods in which there are no forecasters on duty in St. Maarten, due to vacation, sickness or other reason, the MDC will provide meteorological services to the country.

I am concerned after reading about a serious manpower shortage since October 2012 at Curacao's MDC. Approximately eight new employees are needed to make sure the MDC can function properly and carry out its services.

Has Minister Romeo Pantophlet been informed about the challenges faced by Curacao's MDC? Has there been any impact on services, especially night time services at MDS?

Minister Pantophlet should assure the aviation and maritime sectors that the manpower problems in Curacao with MDC has not impacted our meteorological agency in any fashion or form if this is indeed the case.

Just like me and others, we would like to know what the situation is and if any negative impact at MDS.

Former United Peoples (UP) party Minister responsible for Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transportation, and Telecommunications Franklin Meyers

Philipsburg:--- Minister of Education, Culture, Youth, and Sports Honorable Silveria Jacobs met with Dan Marmar and Zahira Marmar- Hilliman of 'Participant SXM', on Friday January 25th 2013.

'Participant SXM' presented a proposal to the Minister regarding the training of top students to teach younger children and to assist them in doing so at the schools. This would be done in a pilot program in three community schools which would empower youth to make tangible positive changes to their neighborhoods and foster and celebrate excellence and achievement among particularly male secondary school students.

The program will give youngsters the opportunity to pass on knowledge as well as share their passion for a particular topic, subject or activity. In addition this is a program that has proven to build both the students and the teachers. With their initiative 'Participant SXM' hopes to teach responsibility and reciprocity within the community and give our younger students honorable role models to emulate.

Minister Jacobs supports this program as it is in keeping with the Ministry vision as it promotes youth in leadership.

Harbour View:--- The Book 'The Diary of a St. Martin Salt Checker' was presented to His Excellency Governor Eugene B. Holiday at his office by its author Mr. Will Johnson together with Mrs. Carolyn Buncamper on January 25, 2013.

The book is based on the 1927 Diary of Mr. Albert Buncamper which was entrusted to author and historian Mr. Will Johnson by Ms. Bernadette Buncamper the granddaughter of Mr. Albert Buncamper. Through the book the author highlights the importance of the salt industry at the time the diary was written as well as of the transportation available during that era to transport salt and provide for travel between the islands.

In the foreword to the book Governor Holiday wrote: "The book offers the people of St. Martin a glimpse into the last of the Glory days of the Salt Era and the Great Salt Pond. This book is, as a result, a valuable source of information on life on St. Martin in the first half of the twentieth century and more specifically in 1927. Mr. Albert Buncamper, through his diary, immortalized a defined period of his life and family and that of the people he came into contact with in the serene setting of the Philipsburg of yesteryear".

Governor Holiday thanked Mr. Johnson and Mrs. Carolyn Buncamper, the great-granddaughter of Albert Buncamper for the book and complimented the author with presenting, as stated on the cover, a fresh perspective of the old St. Martin in the footprints of the salt industry as well as for adding to the growing body of literature about our island's history which is invaluable as we develop our island nation.

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Minister of Education, Culture, Youth and Sports Hon. Silveria Jacobs opened the 20th Annual Scholastic Soccer Tournament for Schools on Saturday. The tournament is organized annually by the St. Maarten Soccer Foundation.

Minister Jacobs applauded the Foundation for its continued efforts, throughout the 20 years, to promote the sport on St. Maarten. She commended the foundation for organizing the tournament in spite of the fact that Government cannot always assist.

"The foundation's efforts show that community initiatives from foundations and individuals can be powerful when the youth get together as a collective. We might be a small island but with so many talented and dedicated people on St. Maarten we must be able to project our talented youngsters to the world.

"The soccer foundation is doing its best to promote the sport on the island and Government will be working with the foundation and all other foundations to continue to promote sports on St. Maarten as well as regionally, and internationally," Hon. Minister Jacobs stated.

The Minister also commended and encouraged the large gathering of parents and supporters to continue their support of our youngsters. "Without parental involvement, despite efforts of schools and foundations, we will lose our children," Minister Jacobs said.

In addition the Minister appealed to the business community to continue their support of the foundation and all other sports organizations and foundations. "We must band together to help our children reach their highest potential," Minister Silveria Jacobs pointed out.

In closing, Minister Jacobs pledged the commitment of Government in doing their part in the promotion of sports on St. Maarten. The Minister was then invited to do the official opening kick-off to start the tournament.

On Friday January 25, 2013 HIV & AIDS Programme Manager Suzette Moses-Burton, St. Maarten AIDS Foundation President Dr. Gerard van Osch, and the St. Maarten Laboratory Services Manager Dr. Hose Booi met with delegations from French St. Martin, Guadeloupe, Montserrat, and Anguilla at the French side Hospital L.C. Fleming. Participants included Doctors, healthcare specialists, civil servants, and INTERREG Representatives from the various countries. The meeting was held to evaluate the "Development of an inter-Caribbean HIV observatory" Project that aims to build regional evidence on the scale of HIV drug resistance in order to equip and prepare countries with the knowledge, skills and systems to respond to patients whose treatment may be failing. This project was signed with the European Commission in December 2010 and has been extended until the end of September 2013.

The project is funded by the European Regional Development Fund via the INTERREG IV Programme. INTERREG IV is a programme that helps regions of Europe share knowledge and transfer experiences to improve regional policy projects. This project works with people living with HIV & AIDS on the various islands to monitor the effectiveness of their treatment. It is important for a patient to have effective treatment and adhere to it so that he/she can live as long as the average person. The tests are free, done anonymously and codified by a code that only the treating physician can identify. The blood samples are gathered by the various participants in the different countries and transported to the Lepers Laboratory on French Saint Martin or sometime to Paris, France. The results of the analysis from the blood samples are then sent back to the doctors, which allows them to tailor treatments and monitor the patterns of resistance to treatment in the region.

During the meeting various topics were discussed including the data findings of HIV & AIDS prevalence per country for 2011-2012, various surveillance methods being used and ways to enhance the lines of communication between the collaborating agencies for the project. Discussions are also already underway to develop new projects to further enhance cooperation within the Caribbean region.

Two important outcomes of the meeting with regards to the approach of controlling the HIV and AIDS epidemic in the Caribbean region included an agreement for continued collaboration and the spark of enthusiasm that came from the other islands and St. Maarten to develop ways of tailoring future projects to meet the specific needs of our communities. The next meeting is scheduled for June 2013.

Combating HIV & AIDS in the Caribbean continues to be a major challenge on all the islands especially in relation to monitoring the prevalence of HIV & AIDS. Many people travel to neighboring islands to access health care and treatment due to the fear of being stigmatized and discriminated against. Patients from Anguilla go to St. Martin/ St. Maarten, Puerto Rico, etc, residents from Montserrat go to Antigua, and residents from Dutch St. Maarten often go to French St. Martin, Puerto Rico, Miami, etc. As a result these regional collaborations are extremely important to develop ways to enhance our monitoring procedures for accurate case based surveillance.

Great Bay:--- On Friday January 25, 2013, Minister of Public Health Social Development & Labor, Cornelius De Weever administered the second oath taking ceremony oath at the A.C. Wathey Legislative Hall to three medical professionals, namely two pharmacy assistants and one physical therapist.

The two pharmacy assistants are Praveenrisshie Soekhoe and Urmie Snip. The physical therapist is Pepijn Brandenberg. Assisting Minister De Weever during the ceremony was Marilyn Pieters of the Minister's Cabinet.
Minister De Weever was given this mandate by Governor Eugene Holiday to administer the oath to all Para-medical professionals.

Philipsburg:--- The Philipsburg Jubilee (PJL), a non-profit organization committed to providing information to our community for the last 89 years, is currently seeking financial support from key businesses throughout our community for its Shelving, Furniture and Signage Improvement Project 2013. This venture will allow the library to better serve the community of St. Maarten.

"The furniture, shelving, and signage we are currently using has been there for the past 30 years and are in dire need of replacement" remarked PJL Director, Monique Alberts, "This project will give the inside of the library a complete new appearance.

Alberts explained that the planned improvements would: provide additional seating for individual and group work, create a bookstore-like layout and make books more visible and accessible, provide clearer directions to where the various sections are located, thereby making the selection of books quicker and easier, and improve the overall aesthetic of the library and make it a more attractive place to visit and use.

"We are extremely grateful for the donation we have received thus far from the Cooperating Foundation of the Dutch Caribbean which will cover the initial costs of our project. However, an outstanding amount of some NAF 92,298 still remains," Alberts said.

In order to raise the necessary funds to supplement the donation already received the library has decided to call upon community businesses who, like PJL, have education and civil responsibility in their goals. Alberts explained at any assistance from the business community would be welcomed and highlighted.

"The support of the business community for this project will be invaluable to the sustainability of PJL's vision. For the past 89 years we have served the St. Maarten community and it is our aim to continue to be the gateway for information and learning in our society", Alberts stated.

For further information on how you can donate to this project, please contact the library at 542-2097 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate the new Executive Board of the St. Maarten Chamber of Commerce & Industry on behalf of the UP parliamentary faction that are now in place to carry out the Chamber's plans for 2013.

The persons of the board are: Tamara Leonard, President, Hubert Pantophlet, Vice President, Sidharth "Cookie" Bijlani, Treasurer, Arthur Bute, Immediate Past President, Ludwig Quenniche, Immediate Past Vice President, Charlise Philips, Member, Abdul Meyers, Member, Ajay Rawtani, Member and Stanley Lint, Member.

The chamber without doubt has a role to play in 2013 as there are many issues of importance. The chamber has already outlined some of the things that they will be doing such as strengthening the public/private partnership, advice on employment agencies, consumer protection, internal upgrading of the Chamber, redesign of the Chamber website, training and development, and the rebranding of the Chamber.

The UP parliamentary faction looks forward to working with the new Chamber with respect to initiatives where parliament would be involved.

I commend the Chamber on the many initiatives that it will undertake in the New Year.

Working in partnership with all stakeholders is key. The invaluable support by the Chamber to the business community is necessary, especially where it concerns new businesses.

Sylvia Meyers
Interim Faction Leader, United People's (UP) Party
Member of Parliament

SIMPSON BAY:--- The Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM) has been voted the "most stunning landing" in the world by travel fans around the globe.

The PrivateFly.com Airport Approaches survey was conducted in December 2012, on PrivateFly.com. Results were generated by PrivateFly website users and from social media invitations across a range of global websites. According to the organizers, a total of 1,711 votes were received, with 83 different airports being nominated.

In her initial reaction to the poll, PJIAE managing director, Regina LaBega said: "We are very excited at the news that SXM Airport has been chosen as having the world's most stunning landing."

"This recognition comes at a time when we are celebrating the 70th anniversary of the airport. It is, therefore, a most welcome birthday gift, so to speak. We are grateful to all who, obviously from experience, chose SXM Airport as number one in the world in this category," said LaBega.

LaBega further added: "We are also pleased to offer all our customers a first-class international airport with an impeccable safety record, which continues to top our priority list. As a major hub in this part of Paradise, SXM Airport continues to upgrade its already excellent facilities and improve its services."

"Not only is the landing on our island the most stunning in the world," she said, "the legendary friendliness of our people and the spectacular natural beauty of St. Maarten, makes a visit to our island an experience that will move you."

This is the third time in a row that SXM Airport has made the Top 10 in this annual survey of the most stunning landings in the world.

A panel of world-renowned experts in the travel and aviation industry chose a shortlist of the airports to be considered in the online poll. These included David Scowsill, President & CEO of the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC); Peter Myers, editor of the business traveler pages at Reuters.com; Murdo Morrison, editor of Flight International, the world's oldest aviation weekly and Sarah Miller, a former deputy editor of the Sunday Times Style magazine.

One of the voters in the online survey made the following remark about St. Maarten: "It's a gorgeous approach over the clear blue sea, white sand beach with hills in the background. The beach goers can almost touch the landing gear as planes make their landing. It's unbelievable, an aircraft lover's dream. Nowhere else in the world can you get so close to the variety of aircraft, anything from a 747 to a twin otter."

Viv Diprose of PrivateFly.com, organizer of the poll, in congratulating SXM Airport said, "We will be publishing details of the poll's results, including a rundown of the Top 10 airports. We will be featuring the results on our website and issuing press releases to international and regional media and the travel trade."

In addition, a "winner's logo" will be sent to SXM Airport which can be used on the airport's website and other promotional materials.

"All of these will generate a very positive PR for St. Maarten," Diprose noted.

The complete list of the Top 10 airports in the "most stunning landing" category is as follows:

1. St. Maarten
2. Barra, Scotland
3. Los Angeles, USA
4. Paro, Bhutan
5. Las Vegas, USA
6. Phinda, South Africa
7. London City, UK
8. Aruba
9. Mustique, St Vincent & The Grenadines
10. Nice, France.

For further information please go to: http://www.privatefly.com/airport- poll/PrivateFlyAirportPollResults.html. Also see www.sxmairport.com.

PHILIPSBURG:--- A Central Committee meeting has been scheduled for January 28.

The Central Committee meeting for Monday will start at 10:00am in the General Assembly Chamber of the House of Parliament at Wilhelmina Straat #1 in Philipsburg.

The agenda point is information regarding the problems or issues leading to the delay in making public the Census 2011 statistical information.

This Central Committee meeting was requested by the United People's (UP) Party faction.

Members of the public are always welcome to be present in the General Assembly Chamber during public meetings to follow the parliamentary session scheduled for that particular day.

The House of Parliament is located across from the Court House.

The parliamentary session will be carried live on St. Maarten Cable TV Channel 120, via Pearl Radio FM 98.1, the audio via the Internet www.pearlfmradio.com, and also via www.sxmparliament.org.

PHILIPSBURG:--- Upon the initiative of the President of Parliament Hon. drs. Rodolphe Samuel, a meeting with the Presidents of Parliament of Aruba drs. Pauldrick (Paul) Croes and President of Parliament of Curacao drs. Marcolino (Mike) Franco, will take place on Monday.

The main goal of this tri-partite president of parliament meeting is to bring the Parliaments of the Caribbean part of the Kingdom on the same page, and also promote cooperation between these Parliaments.

Definite decisions won't be taken during these discussions.

During this meeting a variety of subjects will be discussed such as the upcoming Inter-parliamentary Kingdom Consultation that will take place in The Hague from March 5-8; the 200 years existence of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, and the establishment of regular consultations between the Parliaments of Aruba, Curaçao and Sint Maarten as well as cooperation on committee level between the Parliaments.

The Presidents of Parliament of both Aruba and Curaçao will also pay courtesy calls to the Prime Minister Hon. Sarah Wescott-Williams and His Excellency the Governor drs. Eugene Holiday.

PHILIPSBURG:--- President of Parliament Hon. Drs. Rodolphe Samuel is allowing the St. Maarten Youth Parliament to meet at the House of Parliament every two weeks. The Youth Parliament had its first meeting on January 11 at the Conference Room in the House of Parliament.

During the first meeting, the President of Parliament Hon. Rodolphe Samuel presented copies of the Constitution of Sint Maarten and the Rules of Order of the House of Parliament to the Youth Members of Parliament (YMPs).

The YMPs received a tour of the facilities and a briefing from parliamentary staff on the functioning of the highest law-making body of the land.

The Youth Parliament will be meeting every two weeks with the next meeting scheduled for Friday, January 25 at 5:00pm. At this meeting, YMPs will present their agenda for the year.

The Youth Parliament is currently recruiting new members. Interested young people between the ages 13-25 can contact program coordinator at 550-8917 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. for further information. President of Parliament Hon. Rodolphe Samuel also encourages the nation's young people to jump at this opportunity and become an YMP and get the experience of what it is like to function in a similar manner as a Member of Parliament.

The Tax Administration (Receivers Office) would like to inform the general public that the Motor Vehicle Tax for 2013 is now due. In order to alleviate long lines, companies with a fleet of cars are asked to submit a package with payment and the relevant documentation for each vehicle before 11 February 2013 for internal processing. To ensure timely delivery packages after this date will not be accepted.

Important Notice:

• Please note that the deadline for paying Motor Vehicle Taxes 2013 is February 28th, 2013.
• Due to revised legislation tax payers keep their existing plates. Please keep receipt of paid taxes with the other required documents in your car.
• For individuals who would require a plate for a new vehicle; an additional fee will be applicable.

Prof. mr. P.C. Vegter and Mr. G. Pesselse visited Sint Maarten on the request of Governor Holiday in order to monitor the implementation of improvements with regard to Sint Maartens penitentiary facilities from Thursday 17 January through Saturday 19 January 2013. This year's visit was the fifth since 2008.

In June 2007, the Committee for the Prevention of Torture and Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment (CPT) of the Council of Europe, whose task is to visit places of detention in order to assess how persons deprived of their liberty are treated, visited the then Netherlands Antilles and Aruba. In December 2007, following its visit, the CPT issued a critical report outlining a number of shortcomings with regards to the detention facilities that were visited. In order to monitor the developments more closely, the Kingdom Council of Ministers in January 2008 decided to ask the Governors to report periodically about the penitentiary situation in the respective countries and the improvements made at the various penitentiary facilities. The Governors subsequently requested independent experts in this field to perform the monitoring visit on their behalf. This approach has been continued after 10-10-10. This year the team of independent experts was comprised of Prof. P.C. Vegter and Mr. G. Pesselse. The latter replaced Mr. J. de Lange who was unable to accompany Prof. Vegter on this visit due to prior engagements.

Vegter and Pesselse started their assignment by paying a visit to His Excellency Governor Holiday. In the course of their visit, Vegter and Pesselse met with Prime Minister Wescot-Williams as well as senior officials from the Ministry of Justice. Further, consultations were held with the Director of the Point Blanche facility Mr. A. Rohan, Attorney General T. Stein and Chief Prosecutor H. Mos, the Chief of Police Mr. P. de Witte, the Clinical Director of Turning Point Mrs. J. Arndell as well as two members of the Supervisory Board, Mr. R. van Veen and Mr. W. Manning. Furthermore, Vegter and Pesselse also examined the actual situation of the persons detained in Sint Maarten, visiting the Point Blanche facility and the police stations in Philipsburg and Simpson Bay. The experts were also given a bird eye view of the Turning Point facility and the treatment of persons residing there. The experts will draft a report, which report will be presented to the Governor in the months ahead.

Press Release from the Governor's Cabinet

Philipsburg:--- Gina Carty, collection agent at Gibson and Duncan, a staunch member of the Philipsburg Methodist Church, where she is actively involved in the youth ministry there, recently received her gift certificate for a week-end stay at Sea View Hotel. Not only did she experience her Victory Walk™ with Victorious Living Foundation on December 29th as they symbolically declared victory in 2013, and closed the doors to any negativity from 2012, but she was fortunate to have won this grand prize from Victorious Living.
Carty, who humbly carries out her many duties, is Church School Superintendent, President of the Sunday School Choir, leader of the Youth Fellowship and secretary of the Organization and Education Committee all at the Philipsburg Methodist Church.
In an invited comment about the Victory Walk™, Carty stated: "Even though I didn't walk all the way, it was nice. I loved the gathering at the Victory Walk Ceremony™ and that so many young people are involved. I would like to encourage persons to be a part of Victorious Living as they are doing a good job."
Victorious Living thanks Carty for her kind words and also thanks Sea View Hotel one of St. Maarten's family owned hotels of over 50 years; and Anacaona Boutique Hotel of Anguilla, as well as all others who contributed to making the Victory Walk a success.
As Victorious Living restructures its operations to be able to provide better and even more vital services to the community of St. Maarten and beyond, they are inviting senior and junior volunteers and donors to join them in making an even more significant difference in the community by calling 721-524-8731/305-407-9260 or visiting their websites: www.victoriouslivingsxm.org and http://www.y2xsxm.org/.
Victorious Living Foundation has some powerful events and programs planned for 2013 which include BOSS (Be your own success story) Society Tour on April 6th, 2013. BOSS will provide inspirational entrepreneurial training to persons wanting to start businesses and others currently in business.
Plans are also underway for a radio-tele-thon geared at assisting Victorious Living to sustain its operations as well as secure the necessary funds to establish its own facilities so that the community of St. Maarten and beyond could be better served. In the mean time, while they restructure in order to positively impact more persons and be financially sound, Victorious Living is still operational, but by appointments only for its various counselling and mentorship services.
In addition, Community, business, Government and Church leaders can access the knowledge and experience of world-renowned leaders by attending Chick-fil-A® Leadercast® in conjunction with Victorious Living Foundation on May 10, 2013.
Chick-fil-A® Leadercast® is a one-day leader development event broadcast LIVE from Atlanta, Ga. to hundreds of sites throughout the nation, including for the first time on St. Maarten in partnership with Victorious Living. Speakers for this year's event include:

• Jack Welch, Former Chairman and CEO of General Electric
• Andy Stanley, Best-selling leadership author and communicator
• Mike Krzyzewski, Head men's basketball coach, Duke University and Team USA
• John Maxwell, Best-selling author and leadership expert
• Dr. Henry Cloud, Best-selling author and leadership consultant
• LCDR Rorke Denver, Navy SEAL and star of the 2012 movie Act of Valor
• Sanya Richards-Ross, 2012 London Olympic gold medallist, track & field
• David Allen, Best-selling author of Getting Things Done and productivity expert
• Condolezza Rice, Secretary of State (2005-2009), via exclusive Simply Lead video interview

Persons interested in any of the above events and desiring to contribute to Victorious Living may contact Victorious Living Foundation at 721-524-8731/305-407-9260/ www.victoriouslivingsxm.org.

Philipsburg:--- The owner of Energizer N.V., Silvio Matser was arrested on Friday and later released, confirmed Chief Prosecutor Hans Mos on Friday evening. Sometime last year police raided the office of Energizer N.V. in connection with a tax investigation.

SMN News learnt that Matser was arrested when he arrived on St. Maarten on Friday. According to a well placed source, police wanted to question Matser but he did not show up for interrogation, instead he left the island. Mos said that Matser was arrested, questioned, and he was later released. Mos explained that the investigation had to do with a tax investigation.

Philipsburg:--- St. Maarten may become the center of attention as early as January 30th, 2013 if the Court of Appeals decides to follow the letter of the law and release the main suspect Meyshane Kemar Johnson (29) that is in custody for the brutal murders of United States citizens Micheal and Thelma King.

Meyshane Kemar Johnson confessed to detectives of KPSM that he was directly involved in the brutal murder of the Kings on September 19th, 2012.

However, the Prosecutor's Office under the leadership of Chief Prosecutor Hans Mos seemingly forgot about Johnson when they were preparing the summons for the three suspects to appear in court in January 2013. The prosecutor's office delivered the first summons on January 7th, 2013 at 3pm to appear in court on January 10th, 2013. This summons was given to Prison Officer Wilfred Williams who had to read the document to the suspect and have the suspect sign the summons. Meyshane Kemar Johnson signed the part where he acknowledged receiving the document just three days before he was supposed to appear in court but refused the sign the part that says he waived his rights to the seven days notification period. Because of this, the suspect (Johnson) did not appear before the court on the first scheduled pro-forma hearing on January 10th, 2013. According to Dutch criminal law, Johnson had to be summoned at least eight days before he is to appear before in courts. In cases such as these, the defense has two weeks in which they can appeal the decision of the judge which Attorney at law Brenda Brooks did. A hearing is now set for January 30th, 2013 where Brooks will show the Court of Appeals the tricks the Prosecutor's Office used in order to keep her client behind bars even though they did not follow the letter of the law.

Attorney at Law Brenda Brooks said she knew that the Prosecutor's Office was going to try another trick because it is customary for them to do so when they messed up. "I was looking out to see what they will do because they could not go after my client within the appeal period. Brooks said the Prosecutor's Office could not take that risk because they would run out of time and the suspect would have been released from pre-trial detention."

That same day after the hearing, the Prosecutor's Office claimed they repaired the damage since they claimed to have enough time left to summon Johnson before his pre-trial detention ran out. Due to the so called repair, a second summons, which was not given to the defense lawyer Attorney at law Brenda Brooks, was delivered to Johnson on January 10th, 2013 at 4:45pm to appear on January 17th, 2013. This second summons was also given to Prison Officer Wilfred Williams. The second summons made no mention of Johnson waiving his rights to the seven day notification.

On that same day January 10th, 15 minutes later a prosecutor went to the Pointe Blanche Prison at 5pm with a modified summons to the house of detention and gave it to a prison guard Dasan Claxti who already indicated to the defense that she did not tell the suspect (Johnson) that the summons he was requested to sign for receipt indicated that he was also waiving his rights. On the summons it states that the suspect agreed to waive the seven day period, which according to Attorney Brooks is not the case. Brooks said the Prosecutor Office tricked her client and even tricked the judge in the Court of First Instance when the hearing took place last Thursday. "I showed the Judge the summons that was presented to my client and I also indicated to her that the Prosecutor's office intentionally kept back relevant information from the Court as to what actually transpired on January 10th when the third summons was given to my client. I also indicated to her that I am aware of the fact that a judge can't overturn her previous decision and that the findings should be noted and a copy of the summons the prosecutor failed to make mention of should be added to the file. I have to make sure each suspect is treated in accordance with the law and this is not the first time the Prosecutor's Office used these types of tricks to fool foreigners that do not speak the Dutch language." Attorney Brooks said she knows that many people would not like what she is doing but she is bound by law to ensure that suspects get a fair trial based on the law.

Attorney General of St. Maarten Taco Stein said in an invited comment that the appeal hearing set for January 30th, 2013 is to discuss whether or not the first summons issued on January 7th, 2013 is null and void. "As Attorney General of St. Maarten I will be the one making the arguments on behalf of the prosecution. In my opinion, the Prosecutor's Office made an abnormal mistake in an abnormal case. It's regretful that the lawyer representing Johnson did not see it as mistake." When asked by SMN News about the third summons that was issued to Johnson on January 10th, 2013 where it clearly states that the suspect waived his rights, Stein said that summons is not up for discussion and that will be done during the hearing which is scheduled for April 9th and 10th, 2013. When SMN News asked the Attorney General if it is normal practice to have several summons served to a suspect for one hearing, Stein said that can happen in cases where the address or something on the previous summonses are not correct.
It should be noted that in the case of Meyshane Kemar Johnson, who confessed to murdering two innocent people while in their home, he only has one address at the moment which is the Pointe Blanche House of Detention.

Click here to view the three summons that were sent to Meyshane Kemar Johnson.

Philipsburg:--- Students attending the Oranje School lit up Front and Back Street early Friday morning with a parade as they opened this year's Book Week. Among the students and teachers who carried banners was the Minister of Education Silveria Jacobs and the Head of Division of Public Education Glenderlin Davis Holiday. Each class of the Oranje School depicted various trades that students take up after completing their education. The main message of Oranje School Book Week is "Reading gets the job done". One poster read "A teacher plants a seed that grows forever". Then came a class with impressive outfits depicting the fire service, the police, and other legal entities.
Teachers, nurses, firemen, bakers, chefs, environmental workers and people who work in the judicial field were all depicted in the Oranje School Book week parade.

Click here to view more photos the Oranje School Book Week Parade.

Philipsburg:--- The board of the CFT told members of the media on Friday that during the last three days the Board of financial supervision, Cft, met the Governor, the Prime-Minister, the Minister of Finance together with the Vice Prime-Minister, the Council of Ministers and Parliament. The last visit dated back to October 2012. The Minister of Finance presented a more complete budget 2013 compared to prior years. Within two weeks the government will send the budget to the Cft in which the outcome of the discussions will be reflected.

As for the draft budget 2013 Chairman of the CFT Age Bakker said the budget contains provisions for eliminating payment arrears created during 2010 and 2011 through payment arrangements with the APS and the SZV. The government proposes to increase revenues to improve public services, mainly by strengthening tax compliance and increasing turn over tax on alcohol and tobacco and taxes related to casino's, altogether ANG 50 million on a total budget of ANG 476 million (budget 2012 ANG 434 million, actual 2012 ANG 416 million).

Sint Maarten requested the Cft for an advice on the draft 2013 budget. A negative advice was given on December 24, 2012. In the opinion of the Cft a multi-year perspective is required in fiscal planning, expenditure policy and budgeting as well as a fundamental review of the existing tax and healthcare system. The Cft considers that the risks associated with the realization of these revenues are significant and therefore suggested a cautious approach. This is needed also to prevent the country from running into liquidity problems. A balanced budget is also a prerequisite to borrow for capital investments and projects.

The Cft advised the Minister of Finance to take only half of these revenues into account in the budget 2013 and to include the other half into the budget by means of a budget amendment during the year if these revenues are realized. The Cft and the Council of Ministers agreed that an 8% increase in revenues compared to the realization of 2012 is acceptable, which would constitute a doubling compared to the 2012 realization. This results in a budget total of ANG 449 million and the expenditures will be brought in line accordingly.

Another discussion concerned the expenses legally payable to the SZV. The SZV proposed to cancel arrears of approximately ANG 55 million out of ANG 86 million provided that future fund deficits, legal reserves and government premiums are paid as stipulated by law. The expenditures related to fund deficits and legal reserves amount to ANG 16 million. It was agreed that these additional expenses will be compensated by measures determined by the Minister of Finance.

It was also agreed that Government will submit legislation to gradually increase the pension age and send same to the Council of Advice as soon as possible.

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- The Collective Preventive Services (CPS), a government agency under the Ministry of Public Health, has distributed Pan American Health Organization's (PAHO) epidemiological alert to local health care providers on the need to be vigilant in curbing any possible norovirus outbreak in institutional health care and community settings.

PAHO calls for Member States to implement prevention and control in health care and gated communities to reduce the impact caused by norovirus outbreaks.

Norovirus gastroenteritis is a common disease worldwide affecting all age groups and often causing outbreaks.

The norovirus occurs in mild to moderate forms, often in outbreaks with clinical symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, myalgia, headache, malaise, fever, or a combination of several of these symptoms.

The virus incubation period ranges from 24 to 48 hours. It is transmitted by the fecal-oral route although it is possible to transmit by contact or through the air from an infected person's fomites. Transmission has also been documented through food, water and shellfish.

The disease can be severe especially in the elderly, young children and immune-compromised persons. Since there is no vaccine, prevention is based primarily on measures of personal and community hygiene.

Minister of Public Health Hon. Cornelius de Weever, 'Get Checked" campaign, is in line with PAHO/WHO recommendations of promoting proper hand washing hygiene with soap and water by health personnel, patients and visitors wherever you go especially at health care institutions.

PAHO recommendations to public health authorities in the Americas are to implement and maintain an early warning system at the hospital and community care levels for the early detection of gastroenteritis outbreaks and to determine the causal agent.

In addition, for public health authorities to carry out rapid outbreak investigations, in order to identify and document the transmission mode and potential sources to guide the implementation of effective response measures.

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Bureau Ombudsman wishes to inform the general public, in keeping with the discretionary authority granted to the Ombudsman in article 17 sub 2a of the National Ordinance Ombudsman, that effective February 1st 2013, the Ombudsman will not be accepting complaints dealing with matters prior to October 10, 2010.

For more information and inquiries you can call Tel. 542-1250 or via email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

The Progress Committee Sint Maarten has written several reports and has pointed out in one of them that they are not enthusiastic about the plans by Minister of Justice Roland Duncan has for a Justice Park and Maritime Police Unit.

The Progress Committee has the responsibility of monitoring the progress of the Plans of Approach and in this case is the Justice sector.

The Committee points out that both plans are not part of the Plan of Approach for the Sint Maarten Police Force, and if these two projects are initiated it could put further strain on the budget of the country if they are not well thought out and planned.

As we have all heard, the Justice Park is a multi-million dollar project of US $100 million. I am very hesitant about this in the sense of the financing of this plan that comprises of multi-facilities etc. We need to know more about the financing of these projects and what the debt will be and how much will be the total costs including interests and whatever other fees will be charged to the people of the country.

The Maritime Police project entails a boat, a skipper and four police officers who would patrol the inland waters.

For the time-being, I would recommend to the Minister of Justice to use our existing Coast Guard that already has the resources, the boats that can carry out inland waterway inspections/patrols. I foresee a multidisciplinary force of Coast Guard, Police and Customs doing the job for the short to mid-term. They are forces that fall under Sint Maarten and I am sure they can work together therefore keeping budgetary expenses down but at the same time protecting the people of this country and making sure that everybody who calls this country their home are adhering to the laws of the land.

Johan Leonard
United People's (UP) Party Member of Parliament, Member of the Committee of Justice

Great Bay/Marigot:--- A committee was recently launched to commemorate the 165th anniversary of the Emancipation from slavery in 1848 for both parts of St. Martin, said Shujah Reiph, president of Conscious Lyrics Foundation (CLF).

The committee is made up of organizations and individuals that are involved in the cultural life of the island.

The year "2013 marks the 165th anniversary of St. Martin's Emancipation, and we are inviting the people of St. Martin to celebrate the 1848 mark of freedom claimed by our ancestors and what it means to us today, with a number of events and activities," said Reiph.

The plans of the committee include the painting of a mural, an art exhibition, a commemorative calendar, hoisting of the Unity/National Flag, showing of the Alex Halley classic movie Roots, panel discussions, and a freedom concert.

The commemoration begins on February 1, at the start of the 22nd annual Black History Celebration (BHC) hosted by CLF, and is scheduled to conclude on January 1, 2014, the seventh day of Kwanzaa.

The Emancipation committee consists of Dr. Rhoda Arrindell, Fabian A. Badejo, Theophilus Thompson, Shujah Reiph, Xiomara Balentina, Ras Bushman, and Morenika Arrindell.

Great Bay:--- The St. Maarten Laboratory Services (SLS) and two local water distribution companies namely Younique Water & Ice and Heavenly Waters have signed a contract with SLS to have their water tested on a regular basis.
During the signing, Minister of Public Health Social Development & Labor, Cornelius De Weever mentioned that this says a lot about these two companies as they have the lab behind them. "This is great for the marketing of your water and it is good that you both have taken the initiative to have your drinking water up to standards, and for this I want to congratulate you," said Minister De Weever.
Raymond Peterson of SLS mentioned that the lab uses the standards of the World Health Organization and the NAN standards of the Netherlands, which ensures that the water is up to standard for drinking. "Once the water is tested we send the report to the Inspectorate of Public Health for further handling," said Peterson.
Minister De Weever further stated that this is the year of water, as government is looking into regulating the testing of water from the wells, and imported bottled water will be tested.

Philipsburg:--- The controllers who are supposed to be working for the Ministry of Economic Affairs and were also used to direct traffic in the St. Peters area during the early morning hours stopped controlling traffic claiming they want to be sworn in as extra-ordinary police officers. According to information reaching SMN News, the controllers have been putting pressure on their boss Martha Thewet claiming they will not render certain services if they are not sworn in by the Minister of Justice. These controllers were trained for the services they are providing before St. Maarten became a country. Other officers that were trained with the same group and are working at the Department of Health and Hygiene were sworn in by the Minister of Justice and are currently working as extra ordinary police officers. The controllers that are working for the Ministry of Economic Affairs, Transportation, Tourism and Telecommunication were trained because part of their job description includes traffic.

SMN News learnt that the Windward Islands Civil Servant Union (WICSU) sent a letter to the Minister of Justice Roland Duncan requesting a meeting to discuss the concerns of the controllers. President of the WICSU Derri Leonard said she requested a meeting last year with the Minister but she had to cancel that meeting because she fell ill. Leonard said that some of the controllers are auxiliary police while the others are not and they need to be sworn in. Leonard further explained that the controllers feel threatened while controlling traffic on the road because some drivers have attacked them already.

A source said that Sherwin Frederick and the Minister of Justice Roland Duncan had a heated discussion on this matter because the Minister of Justice swore in some workers from Health and Hygiene Department who attended the same classes as the controllers. The source said that those that were sworn in received their training that was financed by Department Economic Affairs and Traffic from monies the department obtained from USONA. The source further explained that several other persons working for government did the courses prior to 10/10/10 and Curacao refused to finalize their files because of the change of status. "What we are told is that our files were sent to the Minister of Justice of St. Maarten and all he has to do is swear in the officers and give them their passes. What we believe is the Minister of Justice has refused to swear in the controllers because Sherwin Frederick told him something he did not appreciate."

In an invited comment, Minister of Justice Roland Duncan said he instructed the Police Department Chief Commissioner of Police Peter de Witte to have the police control traffic during the early morning hours in the St. Peters area to alleviate the traffic back up since the controllers are no longer controlling traffic in the area.

Minister Duncan said it is unfortunate that he had to instruct the police to do this because he knows that the police have limited manpower, however, the police are responsible for traffic and he has no choice but to have his men in blue do what needs to be done.

As for the swearing in of the controllers, Minister Duncan said he already indicated to the controllers that he could not swear them in unless they follow certain courses that are provided at the Justice Academy. Minister Duncan said the controllers have to be up to date with the law. "Some of them don't know the laws of the country and the only way for them to know the laws are by following the courses that are being provided by his Ministry. Do I have to swear in someone to direct traffic? Some of the controllers even want the power to carry firearm and since they don't work for me and did not receive the necessary training then I cannot swear them in and if they don't want to work (direct traffic) anymore then the police will have to do it."

SIMPSON BAY:--- The Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM) has extended the deadline for the submission of the Expressions of Interest documents for the Development and Operation of Food & Beverage and Retail Concessions 2013 – 2020.

Interested parties now have until 12 PM, Tuesday, January 29, 2013 to submit the required documents.

It will be recalled that the new concession program is being publicly tendered in a two-phase process. The deadline for the first phase of Expression of Interest (EOI) was initially set at January 24, 2013. However, applicants are now being granted five additional days to submit the relevant documents.

There are 24 concession packages, one for each individual concession, ranging from a 1,000 sq. meter large walk-through duty-free store to landside food & beverage concessions. Parties may express their interest in multiple packages.

The EOI documents are available for download from the SXM Airport (also PJIA) website at www.sxmairport.com.

For further information kindly contact Ms. Suzy Kartokromo, Senior Business Development Officer, Marketing & Communications, PJIAE NV.
Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Going back to the end of October, the Honourable Minister of Finance Roland Tuitt, informed the people that he was negotiating with Holland to exempt goods bought in Sint Maarten from Turn over Tax (ToT) and exported to the Dutch public entities of Statia and Saba. The timeline that this was to take place according to the Minister's statement to the media was by year-end (2012).

Minister Tuitt did acknowledge that the Government will be losing revenues. The first question is, will ToT be increased once again in the second half of 2013 or in 2014 – excluding the forthcoming ToT increase on Alcohol and Tobacco products – in order to fill the hole in the budget?

Has the Committee of Financial Supervision CFT provided an advice on this exemption? What impact will the exemption have on the 2013 and 2014 budgets? How many millions of guilders are we talking about annually? Can the Minister of Finance provide the people of Sint Maarten with the figures? Was the exemption discussed in the meeting between the Council of Ministers and Dutch Minister of Interior and Kingdom Affairs Ronald Plasterk on Tuesday, January 22? If so, can the Prime Minister or the Minister of Finance confirm this?

At the end of November the Dutch National Government Representative for Bonaire, Statia, and Saba Wilbert Stolte, voiced his criticism about the fact the National Alliance led Government still levies ToT on products that are exported to Statia and Saba, and that the Government does not honour international agreements that goods in transhipment are exempted from taxes in the country from which they are exported. These comments can be found in the Daily Herald of December 1st.

Back in November Minister Tuitt said he was going to negotiate with the Dutch Government and the CFT about debt relief. The CFT is a supervisory entity that works according to the rules and regulations of its articles of incorporation. If the CFT allows itself to become a political tool and get into the process of making political deals, then the entity will lose its integrity. If negotiations do take place, then this also sets precedence for future governments as well, and the CFT must realize that it should be open for that as well. I would strongly suggest threading carefully before opening up a Pandora 's box.

Jules James
United People's (UP) Party, Member of Parliament, Member of the Permanent Committee of Finance

PHILIPSBURG:--- Minister of Tourism and Economic Affairs, Transportation & Telecommunication (MinTEATT) Hon. Romeo Pantophlet is very pleased with the December 2012 occupancy figures being the highest in five years.

Occupancy levels for December 2012 were 73 per cent, and the last time the highest figure was recorded in December 2007 at 72.7 per cent.

The Minister is of the opinion that the country's tourism sector is on the rebound and is in line with global tourism trends.

The World Tourism Organization (WTO) based on sample reporting destination, stated that international arrivals are estimated to have increased by four per cent from January to August 2012 compared to the same period in 2011.

All world regions recorded growth in international arrivals except the Middle East.

On December 13, 2012, the estimated number of tourists traveling hit the symbolic one billion mark according to the WTO.

Tourism accounted for nine per cent of global gross domestic product when totaling its direct, indirect and induced impact, the WTO points out, noting that one in every 12 jobs and up to eight per cent of the total exports of the world's United Nations designated Least Developed Countries depend on tourism.

PHILIPSBURG:--- A third Central Committee meeting has been scheduled for January 25 with respect to the Border Management System, Crime Fighting Initiatives, and Security Companies operating on the island.

The Central Committee meeting is scheduled for Friday afternoon at 4:00pm in the General Assembly Chamber of the House of Parliament at Wilhelmina Straat #1 in Philipsburg.

The three point agenda also includes crime statistics for 2012 as well as other relevant information.

The Central Committee meeting was requested by the United People's (UP) Party faction.

A Central Committee meeting is scheduled for January 28 at 10:00am. The agenda point is information regarding the problems or issues leading to the delay in making public the Census 2011 statistical information.

This Central Committee meeting was requested by the United People's (UP) Party faction.

A Central Committee meeting is scheduled for January 30 at 2:00pm in the General Assembly Chamber of the House of Parliament at Wilhelmina Straat #1 in Philipsburg.

Brigadier General D.A. Swijgman of the Netherlands Naval Command in the Caribbean, Directorate of the Dutch Caribbean Coast Guard and Task Group 4.4, will be informing members of parliament about the deployment of Royal Dutch Marines to the country and the location of the Marine base that is to be established.

Members of the public are always welcome to be present in the General Assembly Chamber during public meetings to follow the parliamentary session scheduled for that particular day.

The House of Parliament is located across from the Court House.

The parliamentary sessions will be carried live on St. Maarten Cable TV Channel 120, via Pearl Radio FM 98.1, the audio via the Internet www.pearlfmradio.com, and also via www.sxmparliament.org.

MARIGOT:--- The Gendarmerie reported Wednesday that the public has generally taken note and understood the importance of its message on observing road security requirements during its current awareness campaign.
The campaign, consisting of preventative and penalizing phases, began January 7 and continues until February 18 and addresses the importance of safety when driving on the roads. Motorists have been receiving verbal warnings about wearing seat belts, wearing crash helmets, and the importance of safety devices and belts for small children in the back seat of cars.
After the first warning/preventative phase, controls were conducted on Tuesday outside several school establishments including Collège Mont des Accords and Collège Soualiga.
Despite the advice given, some 21 offenses were recorded, 13 of which included drivers or passengers found not be wearing seat belts. Among the remaining offenses there were three driving licenses infringements, one of which was a repeat offense.
The Gendarmerie noted that the use of cell phones while driving a vehicle was also observed. It said this was one of the principle causes of accidents as drivers become distracted while holding a conversation.
In 2012, five persons were killed on the roads of St. Martin, three of whom were riders of scooters or motorbikes. Between 2010 and 2012, eleven riders of two wheeled vehicles have been killed and fifty two injured. The controls will continue.

Pond Island:--- Smitcoms engineers and technicians will be carrying out important maintenance work on the SMPR-1 fiber optic undersea cable from Midnight Thursday, as a result, some interruptions are expected in international voice and data services island-wide.
The work will commence promptly at midnight and is scheduled for completion at 5:00 am Friday morning.
The work involves the replacement of key circuit cards that are critical in maintaining optimal performance of the SMPR-1 cable and associated equipment.
Chief Technical Officer (CTO), Mr. Eldert Louisa says while a broad window has been scheduled for the maintenance operation, if all goes as planned, international voice and data services will only be temporarily affected.
Mr. Louisa said the work has been scheduled during the early hours in order to have the least impact on residential and business customers.
Residential and business customers are therefore advised of a possible interruption of international voice and data services so that they can make alternative communication arrangements if necessary.
Smitcoms has meantime apologized to international voice and data customers for any inconvenience caused by the scheduling of this maintenance window.

Philipsburg:--- Book week is aimed at arousing the value of reading in our students. The program of celebration is designed to include essay and poster contests, book exhibitions, spelling bee competitions, visits to libraries and printing establishments. This year's theme is 'Community helpers' and the slogan is 'Reading helps you get the job done'.
On Friday January 25th, 2013 at 8:15am to 9:30am Oranje School will be hosting their annual book week parade. Students will be wearing book week t-shirts created by a student of the school while other students will be wearing costumes depicting various community helpers in our society, such as teachers, police officers, legal workers, fire-fighters, sanitation workers, chefs, medical workers, and construction workers. The Soualiga jump-up brass band will be leading the march/parade.
The route is from Oranje School on Front Street – straight down to Court house alley – turning onto backstreet at market place – continuing straight down- turning into the old Galaxy Cinemas alley and back to the Oranje School.

No one should be surprised that the Dutch liberal legal system allows for it. St. Maarten is no different than any of the other members in the Dutch Kingdom. If a laws in the Netherlands allows for prostitution wide spread and open, then guest what we are stuck with it. We could object loudly in Parliament as Members and citizens, but we only can make provisions in the law to make sure that it does not become a major health issue on this Island where we have open borders. We receive over two million visitors annually. Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STD's) and Sexually Transmitted Infections (STI's) is already a serious problem on this Island. As a doctor I have to deal with it at an alarming rate in my practice. The thought that now men and women could be in un-regulated environments like their own homes, with licenses to operate personal brothels is scary to say the least. This would be a haven for communicable diseases, HIV/AIDS still does not have a cure it can be managed with daily cocktails of pills once diagnosed and prescriptions prescribed. STI like HPV (Human Papilloma Virus) can result in cervical cancer that can end a woman's life. The male sex partner can be a carrier and not know it; he can therefore have sex with a sex worker, catch it and then spread it to the next unsuspecting partners. STD, like herpes, can be easily spread from partner to partner. Currently prostitutes working in licensed businesses are tested, but not regularly enough, in my view. But at least it is done and can slowdown the spreading of STDs and STIs. The health agencies can barely deal with it now. So opening the doors to have any and every - want to be money making sex service provider- can be a dangerous thing. We in the health profession are not prepared to deal with what can happen here.

The Minister of Justice has a nonchalant attitude about it, which is no surprise. If it is legal then he does not have to arrest anyone operating with licenses. It is not his concern if an island wide epidemic of STD's and STI's erupts. He will not have the headaches the medical professional will have. The laws can be amended and should have amendments with provision for standardized testing for every licensed sex professionals to comply with. Currently condoms are not used enough, because many believe it is "not as pleasurable." Therefore we are asking for more trouble than we currently have. Female condoms are seldom used, and male condoms are used sparingly. Just picture in a competitive environment where two sex professionals live next to each other wanting your business. I can see it now a sign in the windows "NO Condom needed here. " Or "Oral sex is the standard foreplay practice here," I may be giving them ideas but if you think about the price that will we paid in this society then it is a scary to say the least.

I will be drafting a motion listing my concerns and bring it to the floor of Parliament for a vigorous debate, where I will invite the Health Minister and the Justice Minister to join in on the discussion maybe even the Prime Minister. I will assume as she is a woman she will also have something to say on this issue.

Dr. Ruth Douglass, United People's (UP) Party, Member of Parliament

Philipsburg:--- Prime Minister Sarah Wescot Williams signed a lease agreement with the Foundation that manages government owned buildings for the service center that will be established at the Simpson Bay Fish Market. The agreement was signed on Wednesday shortly after the Council of Ministers' weekly press briefing. Those that were part of the signing ceremony were Angela Dekker from USONA and Chairman of the Foundation for Government Buildings Kurt Ruan. Other persons that joined to witness the signing ceremony gave support and expressed their appreciation for the new service center that is to be established upstairs of the Simpson Bay Fish Market. A help desk will also be on the ground floor to assist senior citizens or persons that are not able to climb the steps to the top floor.

The idea the Prime Minister said is to establish a one stop shopping concept through the use of ICT and this will improve efficiency since the most important part of the service will be through the use of technology. Another major aim is to minimize the gap between government and its citizens. The Simpson Bay service center is the first of its kind to be established and government intends to move into the other districts after gaining some experience and knowledge at the first to be established service center.

The new initiative undertaken by government is to be financed by USONA since the cost of the project has price tag of 1.5 million guilders.

Wescot Williams said at least three Ministries will be offering services at the new location. Those are the Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Labor, Social Development and Public Health as well as the Ministry of General Affairs. Wescot Williams said that several departments from the three ministries will be housed at the Simpson Bay Service Center. Wescot Williams said the only service that has to take place in Philipsburg is the issuance of passports. Even though the process of obtaining a passport has to be finalized in Philipsburg, intake of documents can be done in Simpson Bay when the service center is up and running.

Now that the lease agreement has been signed, modification of the new location will take place shortly and the opening ceremony is expected to take place during the second week of March 2013.

Philipsburg:--- Prime Minister Sarah Wescot Williams at the Council of Ministers' weekly press conference on Wednesday said one of the things discussed with the Minister of Kingdom Relations Ronald Plasterk who visited the island for the first time earlier this week was the dramatic increase in fares by WINAIR to travel to Saba or St. Eustatius. Wescot Williams said the route is costly since the Netherlands Antilles dismantled.

Wescot Williams said that somehow the Minister of Kingdom Relations was given the impression that there are a lot of taxes added to the fares. She said government conducted a research on the matter and the cost for these flights could be considered high due to the short duration of the flights. The Prime Minister said that when WINAIR was under the former Netherlands Antilles it was subsidized by the former Antillean Government in order to keep the rates lower. She said when these subsidies stopped the company almost collapsed, however, since the restructuring the company had to look at the routes and the costs and they have since put together a business plan that is now being executed. Wescot Williams said that the BES (Netherlands) has a small percentage of shares in WINAIR.

SMN News conducted its own research on the increase in fares and we were told that the Dutch Government conducted a study on the operations of WINAIR and in their report they made clear that they were not going to inject monies in the company. The report clearly states that WINAIR has to be able to sustain itself.

The research conducted by SMN News shows that since the new approach the fares of St. Eustatius increased by 30%. The ticket itself costs $149, fuel surcharge is $7.80, Airport tax $35.bringing the total cost for a ticket to St. Eustatius at $191.80 if the ticket is purchased at the Airport. Agencies that sells tickets for WINAIR adds either 10% or 12% for their service fee depending on the agency where the ticket is purchased. Passengers traveling to the island can also get a lower fare which costs $157.80 including airport tax and all other taxes which remained unchanged. A ticket to Saba costs $175.60 since their increase was a mere 5%.

Fiber Optic Cable Issue.

Wescot Williams said that another issue that was discussed during the meeting is the fiber optic cable that the BES islands wants to pass through St. Maarten. Wescot Williams said St. Maarten is looking for solutions to this but while doing so the government of St. Maarten cannot and will not compromise its people and the investments that were made by TELEM. She said the government of St. Maarten has to weigh the pros and cons of having a fiber optic cable on the island because if that happens and services are sold to St. Maarten clients then it will directly affect TELEM Group of companies.

Wescot Williams said the agenda points were St. Maarten's financial situation, issues regarding the joint central bank, and the cooperation with the Netherlands. She said that regarding the joint central bank of Curacao and St. Maarten, both governments have expressed their wishes to have the issues resolved. "The government of Curacao is anxious to solve this issue, while St. Maarten has indicated that they want to have an evaluation on the workings of the monetary union and Curacao also feels the same way. The Governing Agreement that was signed by the current government of Curacao indicated in the agreement that it is considered desirable to evaluate the monetary union with St. Maarten." Wescot Williams said the most positive thing right now is that both governments want to come to a solution quickly with antagonism and aggression.

Wescot Williams said that St. Maarten has been clamoring for the balance of the debt relief. She said that has been going on for some time now and it will continue for a while. The Prime Minister further explained that even though St. Maarten was due to have 180 million guilders in the debt relief program so far the new country only received 65 million that was paid to the APNA. She said that St. Maarten is not only looking for its money but it has to be made clear that St. Maarten did not kick off with the so-called healthy financial position as assumed widely. Wescot Williams said instead of St. Maarten getting the healthy start off financially, the island inherited part of the outstanding Antillean debt to a tune of more than 200 million guilders. Wescot Williams said when the law on the CFT was drafted no one knew what it would cost for the CFT plans of approach. She said the plans of the approach for the various departments have to be financed by the local budget. She said that one of the main issues and message that St. Maarten gave the Minister is that the Dutch Government must be prepared to discuss the reality of St. Maarten's current situation which was mostly caused by the debt relief that was not given to the island as agreed upon prior to the dismantling of the Netherlands Antilles.

Philipsburg:--- Minister of Education Silveria Jacobs announced on Wednesday during the Council of Ministers' weekly press briefing that no contract has been signed with Sheriff Security to guard public schools as was reported by one of the daily newspapers on Tuesday. The Education Minister said that some four or five companies submitted their bids for the contract and she recently received an advice from the Department of Public Education informing her that Sheriff Security should be awarded the contract. "I want to make clear that the department prepared the advice and sent it to me and so far no contract or agreement has been signed with Sheriff Security. Sheriff was recommended based on the results of the bidding.

Minister Jacobs said her Secretary General and herself as Minister of Education has some concerns with the advice that was submitted. A major concern is  the almost doubling of the cost to provide security for the seven public schools on St. Maarten compared to the current contract.

Minister Jacobs said that when she read the contract Sheriff had with the government of St. Maarten they agreed to supply cameras, dogs, and human resources to guard the public schools but the company did not live up to the contract they had previously. The Education Minister said the government of St. Maarten has to be careful on how it is spending the people's money especially since they already have a deficit in their budget.

She said that the matter will have to be discussed and it is unfortunate for some persons within the department to leak such information to media shortly after it was discussed in a meeting on Tuesday. "I want to make clear that we are not going to be operating with a gun to our heads, certain decisions have to be made in the interest of all concerned."

When asked by reporters how much Sheriff proposed in its bid, Minister Jacobs said Naf. 119,000.00 per month. She also confirmed that the contract before was Naf. 59,000.00. When asked by reporters why Sheriff Security increased their monthly fees, the Minister said that the department that prepared the advice did not submit the supporting documents to show why there was a dramatic increase and the advice will be returned so that it can be properly done. Minister Jacobs said there were talks about dogs, cameras, humans, and shifts which are 24 hour shifts. She said that there are several things involved but the company did not provide enough information to substantiate the gross increase. She said she knows for a fact that Sheriff had to provide certain services and it was not provided even though government was paying for these services.

Philipsburg:--- Minister of Finance Roland Tuitt announced on Wednesday during the Council of Ministers' weekly press briefing that he plans to meet with the board of the CFT on Thursday regarding some of the disagreements the government of St. Maarten is having with the CFT and its 2013 budget.

Minister Tuitt said that during the meeting with Minister Plasterk, the Council of Ministers brought several points to his attention, especially with regards to the agreements St. Maarten has with the Kingdom. Minister Tuitt made clear that the agreements are not only agreements but they are also laws which must be respected. The Minister made reference to the Kingdom Law, in particular the part that regulates the CFT which states that the CFT was based on certain pillars. "One of those pillars is that St. Maarten will get a good clean start and that did not happen." Tuitt said if someone has a law that is based on foundations and pillars and if what is stated is not in place then lawyers would begin to question the law in itself. Tuitt said the law that governs the operations of the CFT clearly states the task of the CFT. "Right now we believe that the CFT is going overboard based on the stipulations of the law. Tomorrow when we have the meeting with the CFT board we will go over these points to see if we can come to common ground regarding the process and procedures that are used to evaluate the budget. We will see if the procedures are in agreement with what the law states."

Tuitt said that his Ministry is in the final process with the budget. Tuitt explained that when budgets are being evaluated it is done on a few pillars, this he said he already brought to the attention of the CFT but he will bring it up again on Thursday when he meets with the board of the CFT. Tuitt said the budget evaluations are based on assumptions. He said as long as the assumptions are reasonable then the institution conducting the evaluation has to go along because they already accepted the assumptions. He said for them to accept the assumptions they also have to work with tolerance. Tuitt, an accountant and former member of the CFT, said that in accountancy they have to work with a 5% to 10% tolerance.

Tuitt said in the case of St. Maarten, they indicated that they want to increase compliance by 10% but they being conservative decided to cut the 10% in half and even after that went below the 5% margin in the increase in compliance. If St. Maarten had increased by 5% it would have been 24 million guilders but government budgeted 20 million. Tuitt said because the amount turns out to be 20 million, the CFT has a problem with that. "In my opinion they have to let it be since they already agreed on the basis and assumptions, they must agree with the figures."

Tuitt said just recently the IMF stated to the Government of France that they cannot keep cutting cost without looking at growth. He said the government of St. Maarten must promote growth and the only way to do so is by investing in projects. He said the minute the budget is approved they will then get the loan approved so that they could invest in projects which would eventually boost the economy. Tuitt said already the joint Central Bank projected that St. Maarten will grow this year by 1% which according to the Finance Minister is good news.

Another point the government of St. Maarten discussed with the Minister was the situation of the debt relief. Tuitt said St. Maarten is not asking the Netherlands for any additional funds. He said the law agreement which was signed by St. Maarten and the highest body in the Kingdom states that St. Maarten will get a proper start. He said that it was agreed that the Dutch would take over the debt that existed at that time (Netherlands Antilles prior to 10/10/10). So far that has not taken place and the Netherlands has decided to stop the process singlehandedly even though there is an agreement. "This is not only a political agreement, it is also a law and once people are dealing law then they must follow the law and that is St. Maarten's only contention." Tuitt said that St. Maarten is not looking for any war with the Kingdom, all the new country is asking the Kingdom to do is follow the letter of the law.


Tuitt hit Media and Critics of the Inauguration Ceremony of President Obama.

The Finance Minister also took a jab at persons who have been criticizing St. Maarten representatives that attended the inauguration ceremony of President Barrack Obama. Tuitt said it is always good when they attend ceremonies such as these to see what the people of that country does for their representatives. He said four years ago US Government and its people spent 180 million dollars for the one day inauguration ceremony on security alone. In 2013, the US and its people spent 130 million on security for the inauguration ceremony which was held on Monday.

Tuitt said he has no intention to hide any kind of government expenses from the people and it cost the government of St. Maarten $5000 for each person to attend the ceremony. He said this matter was debated in Parliament and while he agrees that it is everybody's duty to question things, those critics said St. Maarten did not receive an invitation. The Minister of Finance showed Members of the press the hard copy invitation that was sent to the Government of St. Maarten by the President's Inaugural Committee. The Finance Minister read out the invitation while he allowed members of the media to take photographs of the invitation. He also showed the media exactly where the St. Maarten delegation was seated on Capitol Hill. Tuitt said his message on Wednesday regarding the inauguration of the American President was for the nay-sayers.

Philipsburg:--- The committee that was established to investigate the functioning of the Department of Public Education submitted their report on December 11th, 2012 to the cabinet of the Ministry of Education, announced Minister of Education Silveria Jacobs.

The Education Minister announced on Wednesday at the Council of Ministers' weekly press briefing that the report has to be discussed with the Council of Ministers before she can elaborate on the details of the report. Minister Jacobs said that the conclusion of the report falls in line with some of the alarms they have been experiencing. It has shown that there is an alarming lack of knowledge in the Division of the Department of Education regarding laws and policies and even with common procedures when preparing advices.

The Minister explained that based on the committee's report, there exists the wrong description of tasks for the staff members. There are instances where there is a lack of responsibility of the staff and this has led to some of the challenges that the schools are being faced with. The committee also found ineffectiveness and inefficiency and poor productivity due to the lack of communication within the division and staff bureau, thus this has negatively affected the management of public schools, teachers, students intake, appointment of teachers, maintenance of buildings, cleaning of schools, purchasing of learning materials and necessities, payments of salaries, and services granted to pensioners.

Minister Jacobs said as result of the above the services provided by the Division of Public Education are inadequate and are below expectation, all of which precipitated the investigation. The Minister said the findings and recommendations given by the committee in its report will be discussed with the Council of Ministers on Tuesday January 29th and a plan of action will be worked out with the relevant stakeholders to ensure that improvement takes place in an acceptable manner. The Minister assured that she will not release more information on the content of the report until it is fully discussed with the Council of Ministers. She said that her Ministry will do all that is necessary to ensure that proper services are granted

SMN News managed to obtain some information from the report that was submitted by the committee to the cabinet of the Education Minister. In the conclusions of the report, the committee stated that after carefully analyzing its findings, the committee concludes that certain recommendations must be taken.

The Division of Public Education must be restructured with shared managerial responsibilities taking into account the redefinition of the structure and its staff. Regarding public schools, school managers, teachers, students, and parents, the personnel of the entire Ministry of Education, Culture and Sports needs training in the Educational laws so that they know when they should apply certain laws and to also interpret the laws in their day to day operations. Training must also be provided on personnel matters to ensure that the staffs are abreast with the laws and policies. A manual for the Division of Education should also be established as it relates to "manners" and this manual must be respected. A review and outline must be done on how the staff has to prepare advices, while they should know the chain of command when preparing advices for the Ministry.

Suggestions were given to the Minister of Education to organize a workshop on team-building, thereby enhancing the motivation of the staff at the Division of Public Education. Workshops should also be organized to develop proper communication and service skills. One of the points that have to be addressed in this workshop is body language. The Minister is now tasked with ensuring that short term policies are in place when it comes to acquiring learning materials for schools. The committee believes that government should establish a foundation to deal with such matters since the current process and procedures have de-motivated several school managers. The committee feels that if this part of the Division of Public Education is outsourced to another body then it would alleviate the stress and burden that is currently placed on the Ministry. They also suggested that an audit be conducted at the Division of Public Education.

Philipsburg:--- With the ongoing Piranha investigation that involves several persons that were and are currently working within the civil service of government especially within the Ministry of Finance, the Minister of Finance Roland Tuitt has decided to remove his Ministry's Secretary General Sherry Hazel effective February 1, 2013.

SMN News has been reliably informed that Minister Tuitt met with the senior civil servant sometime last week and informed her of his decision to remove her from the position she is currently holding within the Ministry of Finance.

On Wednesday during the Council of Ministers' weekly press briefing, SMN News asked Minister Tuitt if the information we received has any merit, Minister Tuitt confirmed that he did meet with a senior civil servant and informed her that she will be removed from her position effective February 1st, 2013.

The Finance Minister said that while the person was removed from her position within the Ministry of Finance, she still remains an employee of the civil service. The Finance Minister has refused to divulge the details of the decision he took regarding the Secretary General for the Ministry of Finance.

It should be noted that the former Minister of Finance Hiro Shigemoto was arrested by the National Detectives late December 2012 and was interrogated for days while in police custody. According to Chief Prosecutor Hans Mos, Shigemoto was suspected of committing embezzlement, fraud, and breaking government rules. It should also be noted that the Minister of Finance Roland Tuitt requested that the SOAB conduct an investigation on the TAXAND contract that was granted to Judith Brewster by the former Finance Minister who was arrested late last year. At the time the TAXAND contract was granted to Brewster, Hazel was working with the former Minister of Finance as his Secretary General.

Currently the Ministry of Justice and the Ministry of Finance are currently without a Secretary General.

Pembroke Pines, FL:--- Prominent cruise executives, presidents and CEOs will host tables for an unforgettable evening featuring the unique opportunity to interact with some of the cruise industry's top decision makers.

The 19th annual FCCA Gala Dinner and Entertainment Extravaganza will be held Wednesday, March 13, 2013 at the Miami Beach Convention Center. Made possible through the partnership between the FCCA and event sponsors Port Everglades and PortMiami, the Gala's festivities include a 90-minute cocktail reception with the CEOs, presidents and cruise executives in attendance, along with a silent art auction composed of a magnificent collection donated by Park West Galleries.

However, the main attraction of the night is the Gala dinner. This is because attendees will sit at tables hosted by the cruise line executive of their choice, all representing Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association Member Lines and valuable networking opportunities. Tables with Member Lines' presidents and CEOs will be sponsored tables and allow personal attention from the distinguished host. Table sponsors will also enjoy special benefits and recognition during the evening.

The Gala will benefit the FCCA Foundation, with 100 percent of the proceeds going to the non-profit, charitable organization. Created in 1993, the Foundation funds humanitarian causes in the Caribbean and Latin America. Numerous worthy projects receive funding each year throughout the FCCA Foundation. Most recently, the FCCA Holiday Gift Project brought smiles to the faces of nearly 7,000 underprivileged children throughout the Caribbean and Latin America.

For more information about the 2013 FCCA Gala Dinner and Entertainment Extravaganza, contact the FCCA, 954-441-8881.

PHILIPSBURG:--- Minister of Education, Culture, Youth, and Sports Hon. Silveria Jacobs will be in a Central Committee meeting on January 25.

The Central Committee meeting is a continuation after the adjourned meeting of December 4, 2012. The meeting is scheduled for Friday afternoon at 2:00pm in the General Assembly Chamber of the House of Parliament at Wilhelmina Straat #1 in Philipsburg.

The agenda point for the meeting is the present policy on Youth and Sports. Minister Jacobs will be answering questions posed to her by Members of Parliament in the first round.

The Central Committee meeting with Minister Jacobs was requested by the United People's (UP) Party faction.

On Thursday, January 24 at 2:00pm, the Central Committee will meet with the Committee of Financial Supervision CFT with respect to the public finances of the country.

On Friday, January 25 at 10:00am, the Central Committee will meet with the Minister of Finance Hon. Roland Tuitt. This meeting is a continuation from the adjourned session in the latter part of 2012. The Minister of Finance will be present to continue to answer questions posed by MPs.

Members of the public are always welcome to be present in the General Assembly Chamber during public meetings to follow the parliamentary session scheduled for that particular day.

The House of Parliament is located across from the Court House.

The parliamentary sessions will be carried live on St. Maarten Cable TV Channel 120, via Pearl Radio FM 98.1, the audio via the Internet www.pearlfmradio.com, and also via www.sxmparliament.org.

The Four Rotary Clubs on St. Maarten/Saint Martin are planning one of the largest Youth conferences St. Maarten has hosted for the second time called RYLA. Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA) is Rotary's leadership training program for young people. RYLA participants can be ages 14-30, but most clubs and districts choose to focus on a narrower age range, such as 14-18 or 19-30.
RYLA emphasizes leadership, citizenship, and personal growth, and aims to demonstrate Rotary's respect and concern for the youth, provide an effective training experience for selected youth and potential leaders, encourage leadership of youth by youth, and recognize publicly young people who are rendering service to their communities.
The St. Maarten/St Martin hosted RYLA will take place February 14-17, 2013.
The conference will target persons between the ages 14-17 years old from 10 countries in the Caribbean. In addition to Intercators from St. Maarten and Saint Martin, participants are expected to come from Haiti, Jamaica, St. Kitts & Nevis, Us Virgin Islands, Bahamas, British Virgin Islands, Cayman Island, Turks & Caicos, and Anguilla.

Between seventy and one hundred and twenty participants are expected to attend the conference and preparations are in full swing.
Intercators on St. Maarten/Saint Martin are making their preparations for the Valentine's weekend during which the 3 day conference will be held. The conference is being made possible through the generosity of sponsors such as CIBC, Nagico, Sol, and Russell Bell Transportation.
In addition to being fun filled and an opportunity to make new friends the young leaders will be brushing up on their leadership skills such as listening and feedback. Effective public speaking, conflict resolution, dealing with bullying in an assertive but non aggressive way, and much more are on the agenda. But it's not only the leadership skills that will be polished, also team-building, culture and challenge exercises as well as community services projects are part of this grand event. The evenings are filled with more relaxing yet exiting activities which will put vocal cords and dancing skills to the test.
More details about RYLA and Interact Clubs can be found on www.rotary.org. Details such as registration for the St. Maarten/Saint Martin 2013 RYLA can be found on www.rotarysxm.org.

Philipsburg:--- The prosecution asked the Court of First Instance on Tuesday to grant them another postponement for the pro-forma hearing of the Kings (OCEAN) murder trial. The three suspects who already confessed their involvement to police, appeared in court on Tuesday for their first Pro-forma hearing. Their first pro-forma hearing was initially scheduled for Thursday January 10th, 2013 but the suspects did not attend because the prosecution served them with their summons late. However, the prosecution managed to repair the damage that very evening which led to Tuesday's trial.

According to information provided to SMN News, the prosecution is waiting for the reports from the Mental Health Foundation. The Prosecution has asked for psychiatric and psychological reports on each suspect which is not yet complete. During this time the Prosecution will also conduct the reconstruction of the crime scene to determine the role of each of the suspects. In custody for the brutal murder of Micheal and Thelma King is Meyshane Kemar Johnson, a national of Jamaica who was residing and working on the island illegally. Johnson confessed to police that he was involved in the brutal slayings of the Kings and the robbery of Happy Star Chinese Restaurant. Happy Star Chinese Restaurant was robbed on September 19th, 2012. Police managed to shoot at the vehicle the suspects used to escape from the scene. Inside that vehicle police recovered the cellular phone and credit cards that belonged to the Kings but their bodies were discovered later on September 21st, 2012 by one of their close friends and business partner.

The second suspect is Johnson's first cousin who is no stranger to law enforcement, Jeremiah Chevon Mills (17) is a former student of the St. Maarten Academy (PSVE). Mills is a Dutch national, he was born on St. Maarten to Jamaican parents. SMN News learnt that Mills was a troubled and rebellious youth while attending high school. He was expelled for beating someone with a baseball bat. At the time of his arrest for the murder of the Kings, Mills was on probation for the first crime he committed. He is represented by Attorney at Law Shaira Bommel.

The third suspect identified as Jamal Jefferson Woolford (20) was arrested in St. Thomas by the FBI when he fled from St. Maarten. Woolford is a close friend of Mills who grew up in the Cape Bay neighborhood. At the time of the murders and robbery, Woolford was an employee of Eagle Tours which is located at Bobby's Marina.

The official trial of the case is now set for April 9th, 2013 while the judge is expected to finalize the case and pronounce a decision on May 8th, 2013.

The Ocean investigation known as the Kings murder investigation is the first case the detectives of KPSM solved within a short period of time by themselves. This case placed St. Maarten on the map mostly in North America (USA) in a negative light when the two American citizens were found brutally murdered in their Cupe Coy condominium.

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Health officials last week in Jamaica was in a frenzy after the discovery of a Jamaican who was diagnosed with the highly contagious disease malaria, after a visit to a country on the African continent.

Jamaica's health authorities immediately moved to identify all persons with whom the patient might have come in contact in order to administer the necessary treatment to prevent an outbreak of the disease.

Malaria is a serious and sometimes fatal disease caused by the parasite Plasmodium, which is transmitted through the bites of infected mosquitoes. In the human body, the parasites multiply in the liver and then infect red blood cells.

The number of malaria cases in the Americas declined by nearly 60 percent and malaria deaths declined by 70 per cent over the past decade, according to the 2012 World Malaria Report, published by the World Health Organization (WHO).

In 2000, more than one million cases of malaria were reported in the Americas, and by 2011, the number had dropped to below 490,000.

The Caribbean is currently monitoring the number of dengue cases and planning on methods to manage the introduction of Chikungunya which are also vector borne diseases.

In considering the circulating information in the region and the reported number of dengue cases, the Collective Preventive Services (CPS), a government agency under the Ministry of Public Health, is calling on the community to implement mosquito preventive measures in order to prevent vector borne diseases. Measures should be taken in and around the workplace, social gatherings and living quarters to eliminate mosquito breeding sources.

Last year the country diagnosed 35 cases of dengue fever compared to 22 in 2011, and according to CPS, this signals a potential risk if the mosquito population grows it is necessary for the community to continue to take measures on the elimination of mosquito breeding sources throughout the year. Let us be proactive and not wait until the numbers increase to take action.

Minister of Public Health Hon. Cornelius de Weever, 'Get Checked" campaign, is in line with CPS's appeal for residents and business owners, to check in and around their homes and businesses in order to reduce breeding of the Ades Aegypti mosquito, which has the potential to transmit diseases such as dengue and chikungunya fever.

Look for debris and old tires in yards that can accumulate stagnant water, which can become a breeding ground/source for mosquitoes bringing about an increased risk of mosquito-borne diseases.

An increase in the mosquito population puts residents at risk. In the case of where containers are used for storing water, residents should keep these covered. Inlets and outlets of cisterns must be covered with a mosquito net or cloth to prevent mosquito breeding.

CPS is therefore advising residents to take continuous measures after rain events to make sure there is no clear/clean stagnant water in their yards; disposing of responsibly old tires, empty drums, plant containers, paint cans and other items that can collect water around their homes and businesses.

The French Parliament has decided to inject 20 billion Euros into the French economy, by significantly reducing the labor costs for companies. However, because of the fiscal competence of the Collectivité of Saint-Martin, local companies have been excluded from the measure. President Richardson as a result has decided to petition the Minister for the Overseas, Victorin Lurel on what he has termed the "unjustified exclusion of Saint-Martin from the benefits of the new tax measure."
Within the framework of the "National Pact for Growth, Competitiveness and Employment", the Parliament, on the initiative of the Government of Prime Minister Jean-Marc Ayrault, decided to inject 20 billion Euros into the French economy, by significantly reducing the labor costs for companies.
The companies will, as a result, be given an aid equal to 6% of their overall wage costs that they incur during the year for remunerations lower than or equal to 2,5 SMIC (4% in 2013). This aid package will take the form either of a tax cut or of a check issued by the French Treasury for those who do not incur sufficient taxes to allow them qualify for this help.
Taking into account the fiscal competence that the Collectivité has, the choice of a "tax expenditure" as the mode for financing this important aid package, excludes Saint-Martin companies from the measure. President Alain Richardson, supported by the entire majority in the Territorial Council, considers that this exclusion is completely unjustified. According to the President, the fiscal competence that the Collectivité enjoys cannot have as a consequence that companies established on Saint-Martin be excluded from benefiting from a national policy aimed at reducing labor costs. A cost, Richardson further explained, on which the Collectivité has no control, since the labor laws, the social costs and the Employment Policy falls under the responsibility of the State.
Already confronted with the perpetual competition from companies established in Sint-Maarten, where the labor costs are lower than that of the French side and where the labor laws are much more flexible, the local companies will now also have to submit to the additional competition provided from companies originating from Guadeloupe or Martinique who will benefit from a major competitive advantage because of the CICE.
In a letter dated January 14, the President of the territorial council drew the attention of the Minister for Overseas to the need for finding a solution quickly so that Saint-Martin companies are provided with an equivalent aid. Senator Louis-constant Fleming, and Member of the National Assembly, Mr. Daniel Gibbs, who attended a meeting on the issue at the request of President Alain Richardson, were informed of this situation and committed themselves to supporting the Collectivité's initiative towards the national political authorities.

It has been reported in the media with information provided by the Minister of Finance Roland Tuitt that Government intends to increase casino fees to raise over Naf. 7 million. The 2013 budget is Naf. 476 million or Naf. 43 million more than the 2012 budget (Naf. 432.5 million). The NA led Government has managed within the past seven months since they took over to increase the budget by Naf. 43.5 million.

The St. Maarten Casino Operators Association have emphatically stated back in December that no single casino operator, nor the casino operators as a whole have agreed to paying increased casino fees to the tune of Naf. 7.5 million, or any other amount.

Minister Tuitt told the press that he had met with the major stakeholders in the casino business about increasing casino fees and that it was agreed that the best route to take is to increase the fees on the tables and the machines, but then he was rebuked by the casino operators a day or two later.

We have to question where is this country heading? Railroading its way through seems to be this government's preference. We have seen it with the illegal filling in of protected areas of the Great Salt Pond.

The concern of the UP parliamentary faction is jobs. Will an increase in casino fees impact jobs within the casino sector? If so, how many jobs could be lost if government goes forward with increasing fees in the manner they have proposed? Will casino workers have to see cuts in salaries if government increases fees?

Are follow-up meetings planned with the casino sector to develop a comprehensive, fair and economically realistic approach to a new tax and fee system for the country? Is the increase in casino fees part of the 2013 budget?

Has the Minister of Finance entertained the idea to carry out a comprehensive study of the casino industry? Did the casino operators submit an impact plan to the Minister showing what the negative consequences would be?

Such a study would allow Government to have the basis for developing a fee system that would guarantee the continued existence of the sector on the island therefore ensuring the protection of current jobs and salaries.

This uncaring attitude and approach by the Minister of Finance is creating frustration within the community and causing unnecessary panic among the workers.

Sylvia Meyers
Interim Faction Leader United People's (UP) Party, Member of Parliament

Are their potential Job Losses in Wholesale Sector with Increase in ToT on Alcohol & Tobacco Products?

It is clear that the Honourable Minister of Finance Roland Tuitt, is experiencing difficulty in presenting a balanced budget for 2013. The Minister also needs to explain what potential consequences that we can expect in the Wholesale Sector with the proposed increase in Turn over Tax (ToT) on Alcohol and Tobacco products.

I can recall back in early December the honourable Minister of Finance Roland Tuitt told the people that he closed the budget deficit of Naf. 29 million by increasing compliance that is expected to bring in approximately Naf. 20 million.

Another Naf. 15-20 million will be generated after increasing the Turn over Tax on Alcohol and Tobacco products. Government at that time was also looking at increasing casino fees to generate another Naf. 7.5 million.

The Minister stated back in December that the wholesalers had drafted a report for him on how the increase in the ToT will be implemented and documented. The Committee for Financial Supervision CFT in its preliminary advice in December had concerns about how this Naf. 20 million would be raised.

The UP parliamentary faction is concerned that there may be a potential for job losses or a reduction in wages, and would like the Minister to provide clarity.

The UP faction would also like a copy of the assumption used by the Minister to come up with his figures, as well as a copy of the wholesalers report to see if the report points out any consequences for the people of Sint Maarten.

The Minister of Finance also stated that while Government is increasing revenues, it is also decreasing expenditures by 10 per cent on material costs. This is rather interesting, because the 2012 budget was Naf. 432.5 million and Tuitt's Budget is Naf. 476 million, or over Naf. 43 million more.

The Minister in the past used the term "voodoo economics," so my question to the Minister is for him to explain how his claim to reduce the budget by 10 per cent, while in essence the budget has been increased by at least 10 per cent!

Jules James
United People's (UP) Party, Member of Parliament, Member of the Permanent Committee of Finance

Philipsburg (DCOMM):--- After completion of the Advanced Assessment and Treatment of Trauma course, 16 personnel from the Ambulance Department received their certificates from the World Wide International Emergency Medical Services (WIEMS).

The course, recognized by the American Heart Association, has some new guidelines, according to Doreen Gumbs-Vines, whose company provided the training.

Minister of Public Health, Labor, and Social Development, Cornelius de Weever said that he was pleased about the event, whereby all personnel passed the examinations to get their certificates. "It shows that you are committed; the same way how my office and the government is committed to you."

With the more serious accidents that are taking place, it is essential that our men and women are well trained. Keep on moving forward, and congrats to you all.

Cylred Richardson, Head of the Ambulance Department, said that he was glad to have the training organization here to provide a much valuable service to his department. It was an intense week, but we all came out better. I want to congratulate the participants. Keep up the good work.

Philipsburg:--- Chippie announces the second winner of the iPad 3 sweepstake that the mobile provider offers together with distribution partner Xtreme Machines. The first winner is St. Eustatius resident, Mr. Valentine Fortin in December 2012. Ms. Vanina Lozandier is now the second of 5 potential winners of an Apple Ipad. She won the tablet by saving her Xtreme Machine top-up receipts. Each receipt contains a letter and after saving all the letters necessary to spell 'APPLE I PAD 3' she also dubbed a winner of the sweepstake. 'There are 3 more iPads to be won, so anyone that almost had all the letters shouldn't be discouraged,' says UTS Marketing and Communication Officer, Ivy Lambert "We are happy to collaborate with our partner, Xtreme Machines to bring fantastic prizes to our customers. The holiday season is behind us, but we aren't about to stop with the gift-giving yet. There are 3 more tablets to be won. Our customers have a choice in whom they select as their mobile provider and we want to show them that we appreciate their good custom; whether it is through our ongoing sweepstake, free credit when we spot you with one of our bumper stickers, we want to show our appreciation. Chippie is celebrating its 10 year anniversary on St. Maarten all year and we want to show our appreciation to the customers that have helped make that possible," Lambert continues.

Philipsburg (DCOMM):--- The Department of Communication (DCOMM) will be airing a special on the Chamber of Commerce & Industry at 6:00pm on Tuesday, January 22. The program will air on St. Maarten Cable TV channel 115.

In this TV Special, the DCOMM interviewed the Chamber's Executive Director Claret Connor about the objectives and tasks, its organizational structure, current issues, challenges, public-private partnership ventures, inner workings, projects and plans, elevating standards of quality service, requirements for registering a business, and finally, the Chamber's future aspirations.

The Television special is intended to provide not only information to the public about what exactly is the chamber's role in society, but also to stimulate awareness of such and to encourage businesses to partner with the chamber.

As is, the Chamber of Commerce & Industry, representing approximately 17,000 members of all types of businesses on St. Maarten, main tasks are:

1. Public registration of all businesses;
2. Providing advice, in the interest of its members, to government, solicited or not, on a variety of topics.

In the tv special, Connor elaborates on "increasing the working relationship between its members, government, and its social partners to increase the quality of service to the public on a whole."

He added, "We have to work in conjunction with unions, other trade associations, Non-Government Organizations, and of course Government to discuss, oppose, or support certain issues that affect the business community."

Connor, in addition, said that the Chamber has been busy upgrading its database and dealing with the challenges of globalization.

Connor said, "Considering its core tasks and representing so many businesses, the Chamber of Commerce, whose funding comes from membership, has to be proactive and conduct themselves in a most advantageous manner if we want to advanced ourselves."

"What is fundamental," Connor said, "is that we have to ensure quality service to our guests, the tourists that come to the island and spend money. They provide us with a living; in turn, we have to hold each other accountable and responsible."

DCOMM in its capacity, the communication division of the Government of St. Maarten, is working with government related organizations to bring more awareness to the public of St. Maarten.

The tv special will air on St. Maarten Cable TV at 6pm, channel 115. The public is urged to watch the special to get the latest developments at the Chamber of Commerce & Industry.

N.V. G.E.B.E. regrets to inform the general public that the Water supply to the

COLEBAY AREA

Will be experiencing interruptions from Monday January 21, 2013 until Friday 25 January 2013 from 11:00 pm until 3:00 am.

These interruptions will allow us to carry out necessary maintenance to our Water Distribution system.

N.V. G.E.B.E apologizes for any inconvenience this may cause.

Philipsburg:--- APS, the general pension fund administrator of St. Maarten, announces that there has been a short delay in pension payments this month.
Pensioners with bank accounts at the Windward Islands Bank are, however, expected to have access to their pension payments by the end of the day on Tuesday, January 22. This group represents the majority of pensioners registered with APS.
Pensioners with accounts at other banks should have access to their funds by Wednesday, January 23.
APS apologizes for the delay and regrets any inconvenience caused.

It was sad to see how the Mental Health Foundation that wants to become an accredited facility for doctors with specialty in psychiatry, has been treated, and by extension mental health persons who deal with the facility on a daily basis for their care.

When I read the papers about the issue, it was like we were dealing with the Ministry of Public Health in Curacao when we were under the Netherlands Antilles.

The facility treats over 500 patients and provides essential services to our community, and without it, persons would either have to travel to Curacao or go untreated.

Working together is the only way to resolve issues that exist between the Minister of Public Health, the Mental Health Foundation and Turning Point. Such cooperation would be most beneficial to the patients and their families.

Dr. Ruth Douglass
United People's (UP) Party Member of Parliament

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- The Ministry of VROMI, Department of New Projects Development and Planning on behalf of The Government of St. Maarten is hereby informing the general public of the upcoming road works for the Middle Region Project that concerns the area of Middle Region.

As of Tuesday January 22nd and 23rd, 2013 from 10:00 pm the contractor M.N.O. Vervat St. Maarten will be applying the road markings to the Middle Region Road, sections of the road will be closed on intervals for the progress of works.

The works will be carried out during the evening hours, between the period of 10:00 pm thru 6:00 am on both nights. The works carried out is a continuation of the upgrading of the infrastructure works in the area of Middle Region.

The Ministry of VROMI, Department of New Projects Development and Planning on behalf of the Government of St. Maarten is asking all motorists to pay extra attention to the traffic safety measures on route for a smooth and safe transition, during the execution of the works.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Central Committee meeting that was scheduled for January 22 with the Minister of Public Health Hon. Cornelius de Weever has been postponed.

The postponement is in connection with the working visit of Dutch Minister of Home Affairs Ronald Plasterk who will be meeting with the Council of Ministers on Tuesday.

The Central Committee meeting was scheduled for Tuesday afternoon at 2:00pm in the General Assembly Chamber of the House of Parliament at Wilhelmina Straat #1 in Philipsburg.

This meeting was a continuation from last year with respect to the St. Maarten Medical Center.

Members of Parliament (MPs) from the Permanent Justice Committee will be visiting the Point Blanche Prison on Wednesday, 23 January at 9:00am.

Members of the parliamentary committee of Justice are Chairman Hon. MP Patrick Illidge, Vice Chairman Hon. MP George Pantophlet, Hon. MP Petrus Leroy De Weever, Hon. MP Gracita Arrindell, and Hon. MP Janchi Leonard.

A Central Committee meeting is planned for Wednesday afternoon January 23 at 2:00pm. It is a continuation of a meeting from the latter part of 2012 with the Minister of Justice Hon. Roland Duncan, where the Minister made a presentation about the Justice Park. Minister Duncan will be present in this meeting to respond to questions that were posed to him during the 2012 parliamentary session.

Members of the public are always welcome to be present in the General Assembly Chamber during public meetings to follow the parliamentary session scheduled for that particular day.

The House of Parliament is located across from the Court House.

The parliamentary session with the exception of the visit to the prison will be carried live on St. Maarten Cable TV Channel 120, via Pearl Radio FM 98.1, the audio via the Internet www.pearlfmradio.com, and also via www.sxmparliament.org.

Having an ambitious agenda is one thing, but taken all consequences into consideration must remain of paramount concern, when it comes to spending our tax payer's money with the Minister of Tourism and Economic Affairs proposal put forward. It would be amiss of me not to point out that I believe the Minister with his announced proposal to establish a St. Maarten Airline Company may be considered yet again, as the "Minister running a fowl" with his quest to put the cart before the horse.

Even though I am currently off island, I have been following media reports with respect to the presentation of the Governing Program of the current NA-led government. I was surprised once again to learn that the Minister of TEATT Romeo Pantophlet plans to establish a St. Maarten Airline Company.

One has to wonder whether the Minister is living on St. Maarten or somewhere else. Winair, one can consider is close to a national airline at this point in time since we own 92 per cent while the remainder is held by the Netherlands on behalf of St. Eustatius and Saba. The Minister should first look at ways to acquire 100% ownership Winair and then expand the operations. In this way we could better manage our growth.

We have to wonder if this is really the government for the people. Isn't the Minister and the Government thinking about the existing employees of Winair? Wouldn't a second airline cut into the market share of Winair thereby resulting in a loose-loose scenario for both airlines?

The Minister owes it to the people to explain how he plans to maintain and sustain such a project. Has a feasibility study been carried out for (another) national airline? Can the Minister confirm this? Was this matter discussed in detail with DP and the independent members as coalition partners? Who are the actors behind this initiative? The Minister has thrown into the air another wild idea without any substance behind it one can conclude at this point in time. We have too many unanswered questions.

Are there forces at work who would like to see Winair fail and go belly up making way for the envisioned national airline that Minister Pantophlet and the NA-led Government are promoting? What will happen to the 70+ employees and their families? Who will this initiative benefit at the expense of the country and the workers of Winair?

The UP was part of the Government with former coalition partner DP, who saw Winair make a turn-around, and the airline along with its hardworking employees continue to work diligently to make things work, and they are on the right track.

Tax payer's money should not be used as the Minister's personal "piggy bank" to start a national airline that Minister Pantophlet is promoting. This will further increase the debt of the country and burden tax payer's.

Minister Pantophlet needs to provide the people of the country with a feasibility study that this initiative will work because they have identified a market; secondly, that this initiative does not in any way harm Winair; and that tax-payer's won't be the ones to foot the bill.

Hon. Jules James
United People's (UP) Party, Member of Parliament, Parliamentary Committee Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transportation & Telecommunications (TEATT) Member

Nomura, underwriter of the bond, praises vision and leadership of management.

SIMPSON BAY:--- What would you do if you had invested millions of dollars in an entity you were not quite familiar with? Go take a look at where you have put your money, right?

That is precisely what Cigna Corporation, which invested US$30 million in PJIAE bonds, did when one of its executives visited the island last week.

At a lunch meeting with Prime Minister Sarah Wescott-Williams on Thursday, Leonard Mazlich, managing director, Cigna Investment Management Fixed Income Securities, a division of Cigna Corporation, said he was impressed with the airport, and noted in particular, the smooth transfer from the aircraft, through Immigration and Baggage Claim.

Mazlich, who was accompanied on the visit by Patrick Cann, Vice President of Nomura Securities International Inc., underwriters of the US$132 million bond, stressed the importance of the transaction and revealed that Cigna was encouraged to invest in the bond as a result of the Moody's rating of Baa2 the airport had recently been granted.

A typical investment for Cigna, according to Mazlich, ranges between US$20 million and US$40 million, and its investment in the PJIAE bonds falls within this bracket. Cigna has considerable experience in the Caribbean, having invested in islands such as The Bahamas, Cayman Islands, Bermuda, and Aruba.

Prime Minister Wescott-Williams explained the differences in the administrations of the two halves of the island to the two visiting international financiers, and said the attainment of St. Maarten's new constitutional status on October 10, 2010, known as "10-10-10," offered new opportunities.

The Prime Minister spoke about the St. Maarten's 2013 budget, which is now being finalized, and said it included new developments for St. Maarten.

Nomura's Patrick Cann said his company was happy to have underwritten the PJIAE bond issue, which was over-subscribed almost immediately. He expressed confidence in the Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM) and praised its management for their vision and leadership.

Both Mazlich and Cann had earlier been given a guided tour of the island as well as of the airport facilities. They said they were very impressed by what they saw.

Cigna is a global health insurance company, with about 22 billion US dollars in revenue, employing 31,000 people worldwide and active in 30 countries around the globe. It is one of the largest health service companies in the US, with headquarters in Bloomingfield, Connecticut. Cigna is listed on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE:CI) and is a component of the S&P 500 stock index.

On the other hand, Nomura is a Tokyo-based financial services group and global investment bank with regional headquarters in Hong Kong, London, and New York with operations in 18 stock exchanges all over the world and has held the number one position on the London Stock Exchange since 2007.

According to Regina LaBega, managing director of the airport operating company (PJIAE), the bond issue would allow the Princess Juliana International Airport to execute its Capital Improvement Program, which includes the resurfacing of the runway, construction of taxi-ways; expansion of the aprons to provide additional aircraft parking, especially during peak traffic periods; and the relocation of various facilities to improve efficiency and provide for future growth.

PHILIPSBURG:--- Season passes for Carnival 2013 will go on sale as of February 2, 2013 for US $170. Sponsored by UTS/Chippie, the St. Maarten Carnival Development Foundation (SCDF) over the weekend finalized details surrounding the passes which have developed into "must haves" for Carnival lovers.
The season pass allows the purchaser entrance to all shows in carnival Village for the 2013 Carnival season. With 10 show nights on the schedule this year and the passes priced at US $170, holders of the pass will actually only be paying US $17 a show for Carnival.
"The idea has also been to offer the public a cost saving measure for Carnival and generate early buzz and pre-sales for the shows," SCDF President Mike Granger said. "Last year the passes were priced at US $140, but this year we have a longer schedule with two additional international show nights. So basically, you will be getting two additional shows for just $30. You can't beat that deal," Granger said.
The SCDF has also afforded the possibility for residents to pay for the season pass in two installments, with 50 percent due on registering for the pass. The balance would be due on or before April 1, 2013. Persons abroad who wish to register for a season pass can do so by emailing This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. <mailto:This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.> for details.
A subsequent announcement will be made as to where persons have to go to register for the pass as of February 2 along with requirements. In the meantime, a registration form can be emailed to all interested persons once a request is sent to the email listed above. Registration closes April 1.
"The season passes have been a big hit for us the last two years. People started asking about them since December. We are happy to offer this mode of convenience again for Carnival 2013," Granger said.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The St. Maarten carnival development Foundation (SCDF) and the Festivités Carnavalesques de Saint-Martin (FCDSM) will host the Unity Jump-Up upcoming Saturday, January 26.
The annual event, which takes Carnival lovers on a trek involving both sides of the island, is being held as part of the French Carnival festivities this year. Annually, the two organizations alternate the Unity Jump-Up. Next year it will form part of the Dutch carnival festivities.
The Unity Jump-Up will start on the Dutch side this year in the vicinity of the St. Maarten Festival Village. It will then make its way down Walter Nisbeth Road (Pondfill), Bush Road, AJC Browers Road (Cole Bay Hill), Union Road, past the border at Bellevue and makes its way through Marigot and end at the water front.
All bands that will be taking part in the Unity Jump-Up are advised to inform the SCDF and FCDSM of their participation post haste. Thus far three band have confirmed to be on the road for the jump-up, the Dutch side Band of the Year Official Band and two bands from French St. Martin, Power Band and Madness Band.
All bands will also have to go through inspections with strict inspection guidelines from the Fire Department. Inspections will take place on Saturday a few hours before the jump-up. These guidelines are available from the SCDF and FCDSM who have also provided them to the bands.
President of the FCDSM Phillipe Richardson and President of the SCDF Mike Granger both expressed pride at having been able to host this event for a number of years now. They stressed that both committees cooperate whenever and wherever possible and the Unity Jump-Up is just a way to remind everyone that though both sides have separate festivals "we are still one island, one people."
They also stressed that law enforcement from both sides of the island will employ a zero-tolerance policy towards anyone who have any intentions to start any trouble. Bands can contact SCDF on 5225133 or FCDSM on 5819587.

Philipsburg:--- On Monday January 14th, 2013, Police Chief Peter de Witte officially opened a course on optimizing the investigation process in regard to sex-offenses. This course was provided by a forensic specialist/expert from the Nederlandse Forensische Instituut (Forensic Institute of the Netherlands) in collaboration with forensic advisors and investigators from the Netherlands. Several topics regarding to this type of investigation such as injury investigation, photographing the injuries, the use of forensic light sources, and DNA investigations were discussed.
The objective of this course was for technical and tactical investigators, public prosecutor, and medical doctors who all form part of the forensic framework to optimize their knowledge on properly collecting forensic evidence and treatment and care of the victim.
The instructors of this course were Peter Huisman, Doris Eerhart, Bernice Grotebevelborg, and Martin Oosting.
The participants of this course were: J. Muller-Rijna, E. Levenstone, M. Atmopawiro and T. Constance (Forensic Department), I van Ter Beek, L. Piper-Cristian, L. Wiel-Williams, L. Lewis (Juvenile Department), Dr. M. Mercuur, Dr. R. Douglas, Dr. Spencer, Dr. Ofrenga (Medical doctors), G. van de Wulp and L. Hodge-Sprok (Public Procesutors Office), O.G.A. De kort en S.G. Ras (investigators from Aruba), A. Leonard, D. Chandler and S. Carty (Community Police Officers) Sh. Gijsbertha, D. Muller and I. Hassel (Tactical investigators).
On Friday January 18th the course ended and all candidates received their certificates for their participation.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Department of Economic Affairs, Transportation & Telecommunication (EVT) has released its annual Economic Outlook for 2012-2013. A copy of the report was recently presented to Minister of Tourism and Economic Affairs, Transportation & Telecommunications Hon. Romeo Pantophlet.

The purpose of this publication is to provide a comprehensive review of the economy annually that will be beneficial to local businesses and potential investors.

The publication is accessible via www.sintmaartenoutlook2012-2013.org. As a special feature of the online copy, all websites ( www........) in the online book received a link. There are links in the Table of Contents. In order to access a link, a simple click from a chapter in the Table of Contents to the page of the chapter.

The public may send their comments or questions to the department via the below email address This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

The public is also encouraged to contact the department in order to add their email contact to our mailing list. This will guarantee that organizations and persons receive the latest publications on their computers.

To be added to the mailing list, please send your information to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Hard copies are available at the Government Document and Management department, the Public Library and the department.

The analysis and projections contained in this Economic Outlook are an integral part of the responsibilities of the department of Economic Affairs, Transportation & Telecommunication.

In keeping with our responsibilities, within the next six weeks the department will be publishing its first annual Investment Guide 2013 and the 2012 Year End Report.

Additional publications will follow in the coming months. The public will be notified when and how they may access these publications.

The department extends its thanks to all its contributors, especially its private and public sector stakeholders that have taken the time to provide information and feedback.

The Nature Foundation, over the course of nearly a year, recently completed a research project and compiled a report on the environmental health of the Simpson Bay Lagoon. The purpose of the report was to create a more in-depth study of the ecological health and the water quality in various locations of the Simpson Bay Lagoon.

The report also outlines the possible uses which can be made of the lagoon, protecting it while at the same time ensuring that its economic contribution will grow while protecting the Natural Resources found in its waters. The study also aims to convince policy makers that official zoning of the Mullet Pond and Little Key areas as conservation zones are of essential importance to the stability of the remaining healthy environment in the Simpson Bay Lagoon.

Amongst various outcomes outlined in the report it was found that 70% of all mangroves located in the Simpson Bay Lagoon currently survive in Mullet Pond, which forms the largest continuous area of unbroken mangrove forest on St. Maarten. Mullet Pond is located in the south-eastern most area of the lagoon in the area of Mullet Bay. Baseline surveys included in this report have shown that the area forms one of the most pristine habitat within wetland and aquatic habitats supporting numerous species including juvenile snapper, seahorses, crabs, reptiles and a number of bird species.

Based on the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP) World Conservation Monitoring Center 2006 document In the front lines: shoreline protection and other ecosystem services from mangroves, the Value of the 880 square meters of Mangrove Habitat which represents the Mullet Pond ecosystem is equal to USD $792,000 per year towards the economy of St. Maarten in its intact form, not counting or taking into consideration the high biological value that the area represents.

The report found that the Marketing of the Mullet Pond area as a high Value Eco-Tourism experience is significantly untapped. With increased trends moving towards the marketing of Caribbean islands as eco-tourism destinations Mullet Pond was found to be able to contribute significantly to eco-tours in the form of snorkelling, diving, limited fishing excursions, kayaking and ample bird and reptile watching opportunities, thus further reinforcing the economic contribution of the ecosystem.

Additionally, the waters surrounding Little Key were also found to have some of the more undamaged ecosystems of the Simpson Bay Lagoon. The last remaining strands of seagrass beds in the Simpson Bay Lagoon were found to surround Little Key. Environmental Organizations have also been continuously calling for the protection of Little Key, a small island within the Simpson Bay Lagoon.

The Research Project, which involved water quality tests and research dives conducted by Nature Foundation staff on more than two dozen locations within the Lagoon, also established various problem areas. The areas of the Simpson Bay Lagoon in Cole Bay in particular had especially bad Water Quality, including sewage, heavy metal, and chemical pollution and a virtual lack of any Marine Species such as fish or crabs.

The results of the report have been delivered to the various stakeholders including recommendations to Policy Makers regarding the future development, protection and management of the Simpson Bay Lagoon.

First Phase of Tender Process for Concessionaires Ends Jan. 24th.

SIMPSON BAY:--- The new retail strategy at the Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM) is expected to be a "win-win-win" situation for all stakeholders, according to the findings of the InterVISTAS Consulting Group. The findings were presented to the airport concessionaires during the 3rd Quarter Facilitation Meeting held in August 2012.

In accordance with the recommendations of the study and following extensive consultations with the concessionaires, including another one held during the 4th Quarter Facilitation Meeting in November 2012, PJIAE announced the first of a two-phase tender process at the beginning of this month.

The first phase of an Expression of Interest (EOI) or a Request for Qualification (RFQ) began on January 8, 2013 and will close on January 24, 2013. The conditions to qualify for the next phase of Request for Proposal (RFP) include that the applicants should be in good standing regarding their financial obligations with PJIAE; that they should not be in litigation with PJIAE and have a minimum turn-over that varies according to the concession package. Qualified candidates will be announced on January 31, 2013.

The publication of packages for the second phase – the Request for Proposal phase (RFP) – will be made on February 5, 2013, with a pre-proposal meeting set for February 19, 2013. The deadline for the submission of the RFPs is March 26, 2013, while the selected candidates will be announced on April 4, 2013. The duration of the new concession agreements will be five years for retail and seven years for Food and Beverage businesses.

The bidding process is open to all interested businesses that can deliver the product categories, have adequate experience in the field, and proper financial resources to create and maintain a sustainable concession at the airport. Applicants can include the experience in airport operations of their parent or partner company, brand name or franchise.

There are 14 new exciting packages, including: Duty Free Operator, Sunglass Operator, two News, Books, and Magazines Operators, St. Maarten Souvenir Operator, Fashion Operator, Jewelry/Watches Operator, Wine and Cheese Concession, and two Coffee/Sandwich Bars.

Others are: St. Maarten/ Caribbean Food Concession, three Fast Food/ Hamburger, Italian/ Sandwiches, two Full Service Restaurants, Café de Paris, Drugstore, Telecom Store, Convenience Store, and Italian (Pizza).

All these are concepts that have been proven to be successful at airports all over the world and that generate the most revenues.

At present, there is a total of some US$20 million in outstanding debt – accumulated up to about 2010 by some of the current partners – which PJIAE is currently trying to turn around.

The InterVISTAS study indicated, in this regard, that there is room for improvement in terms of the performance of concessionaires, while it also highlighted the fact that there is significant unused space in the airside Food and Beverage and Retail area.

The study similarly found that there was passenger confusion made evident by the fact that each of the three Liquor and Tobacco outlets that currently exist at the airport, offer the same identical products at three different prices.

The new retail strategy therefore aims at increasing sales volume for the concessionaires. This will result in a win-win-win situation because when passengers find what they want and spend, the concessionaire's sales will increase. This, in turn, will result in higher concession revenues for the airport. In this "triple win" scenario all of the stakeholders benefit.

Other objectives of the new retail strategy include:

• Creating a tempting airside lounge reflective of a St. Maarten sense of place (i.e. by effective use of culture, music, flavors)
• Improving the Food & Beverage and Retail space, particularly in its mix and lay-out.
• Ensure less passenger confusion regarding product offering and pricing.
• Upgrade airside Food & Beverage and Retail area with existing and/or new concessionaires.

In 2012, managing director of PJIAE, Regina LaBega had informed the concessionaires, especially those who had concerns about their future at the airport, that the consultations gave them a "heads up" on the plans and advised them that they could start making preparations right away.

LaBega had indicated then that, "having more money does not guarantee you a spot in the new F&B and Retail area. Everyone will have to go through the RFP process."

She further added that, "it is the objective of PJIAE to increase traffic and these proposed changes go hand in hand with the expectation of an increase in arrivals." The InterVISTAS study had forecast that "passenger traffic, using the main terminal building, but not including FBO traffic" would reach between approximately 1.8 million and 2 million by 2020. More than 1.6 million passengers passed through the airport in 2012.

Indeed, the plans had been warmly welcomed by several concessionaires who said with sales down and the economy in a slump, "it is highly appreciated that PJIA recognizes the need and is willing to take on the necessary steps towards improvements that would result in a win-win-win situation for all."

Construction and remodeling is expected to begin in April and end in September 2013 while the new airside lounge and landside facility is scheduled to be opened on October 1, 2013.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Department of Economic Affairs, Transportation and Telecommunication that falls under the responsibility of the Minister of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transportation, and Telecommunications Hon. Romeo Pantophlet, has posted on the government website the 3rd Quarter Macro Monitor Report 2012 Special Edition on Impact of Hurricane Sandy.

Visit www.sintmaartengov.org; go to tab "Government," scroll down to "Ministry of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transportation and Telecommunications" link, go to "Department of Economic Affairs, Transportation and Telecommunications" and select the link "Economic Reports" and then select "3rd Quarter Macro-Monitor Special Edition Hurricane Sandy Report" for download.

The analysis, projections and policies are the product of a comprehensive interdepartmental review of the United States economic developments.

Projections were also based on results generated by the department Macro-Economic Model.

Inside the issue is Assumptions and Conventions; Hurricane Sandy Overview; Hurricane Sandy Macro Economic Impact Analysis; Conclusion & Recommendation; Appendix – Tables.

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- The various ministers in the coming weeks will be going into more details about their ministerial portfolio's via the broadcast media as it relates to the governing program "Working for the People."

Last week Wednesday, January 16 the official launch of the Governing Program took place at the Sonesta Great Bay Beach Hotel in the presence of approximately 100 invited stakeholders from the community.

Attendance at the event was based on an invitation only guest list of a cross section of the community that included civil society organization, labour, and business.

Official activities started on time at 9:00am while the media was invited from 8:30am in order to allow media personnel ample time to set up their audio and visual equipment so that when the presentation based events began there would be no unnecessary interruptions.

The Secretaries-General of the various Ministries and of the Council of Ministers as well as the President of Parliament and His Excellency Governor Eugene Holiday received copies of program 32-page program of the NA/DP/I-3 coalition leading up to the official launch.

Philipsburg (DCOMM):--- The Ambulance Department is taking part in a week-long, advanced level course in trauma.

Minister of Public Health, Labor, and Social Development, Cornelius de Weever, applauds the continuous efforts of the Ambulance Department to keep abreast of the latest developments in the emergency services. "We are all proud of the emergency services that ambulance department provides to the community. With the amount of violent crimes and the amount of road accidents it is essential that the staff of the ambulance is continuously trained especially in trauma."

About 20 persons from the ambulance department took part in the course that focused on trauma and catastrophes. The trauma course helps emergency personnel learn a method that is systematic and important to the early care of the trauma patient, which is essential for the injured patient in emergency situations.

"This is a continuing process," Head of the Ambulance Department Cylred Richardson said, "we have to continual train and update ourselves in order to provide quality service when called upon. The better trained we are, the more prepared we will be."

During the course of this week a specialized group from Worldwide International Emergency Medical Services out of Washington DC provided this intense trauma training. They have gone through several modules and have increased the knowledge level of the Ambulance Department.

The St. Maarten Ambulance Department participated in the latest Health Care Provider American Heart eSimulation technology for CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) which was implemented in 2010.

This course included the eSimulation technology where the participants were initially involved in treating patients in a virtual healthcare setting. The eSimulation portion of the course is incorporated in the hands-on skill training sessions which provided the practical training.

Key changes in CPR sequence are "CAB" Compression Airway Breathing change from "ABC" Airway Breathing Circulation, allowing the rescuer to get the chest compressions in less time.
Isos Health (a professional survey firm) along with a CPR Improvement Working Group surveyed more than 1,000 healthcare professionals in the United States, the United Kingdom, France, and Germany to identify attitudes, beliefs, and assumptions among practitioners who perform CPR.

For the second to fifth day of training, the Advanced Assessment and Treatment of Trauma (ATT) course represents the state of the art in pre-hospital assessment and management of the trauma patient based on the most current medical information and best practices.

The St. Maarten Ambulance Department participated in a course that is highly interactive covering the critical knowledge and skills necessary to rapidly evaluate, stabilize and transport the trauma patient. The modules include Patient Assessment, Airway Management, Traumatic Brain Injury, Trauma to the Head and Neck, Trauma to the Torso, and Mass-Casualty Incident Triage exercise.

A total of 85 St. Martin's Home residents and 46 Sr. Basilia clients were treated to a day of pampering, entertainment, and gift giving during the Tzu Chi Foundation's annual 'New Year's Blessings Visit' to the two facilities earlier this month.
Foundation volunteers led by Tzu Chi St. Maarten Commissioner Sandra Cheung visited the two facilities and held several fun and entertaining activities for clients.
The clients received massages, took part in non-strenuous exercises, miracle hands sessions and were entertained with a performance of the Lion Dance. The volunteers also prayed with clients and played games such as 'passing the ball."

They were also treated with a 2013 cake and given gift bags containing items such as Chinese oil, juice, biscuit, water, chocolate, a Teddy bear, cookies and other items.
Tzu Chi Foundation, a Buddhist compassion relief organization, which focuses on spreading cheer, love and joy to others, has been visiting the St. Martin's Home annually for about two decades. Cheung, who runs Cake House Supermarket on L.B. Scot Road, began the benevolent act two decades ago when the St. Martin's Home was located in Philipsburg.
She continued the act and added more activities after forming the St. Maarten Tzu Chi Foundation several years ago.
Cheung said it is always a blessing to add some cheer to the days of the seniors and the intellectually challenged in our community. She said it was a blessing to help them start off their New Year on a positive note.

The United People's (UP) parliamentary faction met with Attorney and former Lt. Governor Ralph Richardson on Thursday morning to discuss possible changes to the existing electoral law.

We have a Parliament of 15 members associated with the three political parties, but then three members of parliament became independents.

During the meeting several articles were discussed pertaining to the electoral law, and the Constitution of Country Sint Maarten, in reference to the issue of elected members declaring independence from the party on who's platform they were elected.

Acknowledging the sensitivity, and complexity of this issue including the rights of individuals under the Constitution, nevertheless since the topic has become a hotly debated issue again, the UP faction welcomes an open dialogue pertaining to this matter.

Not only internally within the faction, but more so between Factions in a nonpartisan mature manner. It's a start, which if any changes are made including to the Constitution regarding this topic, the end result must be considered and approved by a referendum by the people of this country.

As we continue to evolve as a new country, this topic and others will undoubtedly come to the forefront for discussion, and debate, and if and where necessary adjustment. This is a natural evolvement as questions of this nature confront us from time to time.

Important is how do we go about it in a mature way where discussing this issue is concerned. Other Countries in the Kingdom of the Netherlands have also been confronted with this topic.

Gracita Arrindell
United People's (UP) party Member of Parliament

Mount William:--– On Thursday January 15, 2013, the Sint Maarten Justice Academy and the Windward Islands Emergency Medical Services (WIEMS) conducted a brief certification ceremony, to officially recognize 10 Customs Officers for their achievement, in successfully completing the first aid Course. First aid is one of the compulsory subjects in their training to become a professional law enforcement officer(commies), is set to be completed in the coming months.

The Officers were presented their certification cards by the Justice Academy Coordinator and master chef instructor Drs. Richard Straker on behalf of the Justice Minister the Honorable Roland Duncan and the WIEMS Course Coordinator Joanna Rijnboutt. Also present at the ceremony were Justice Academy staff.

Second semi-annual report 2012 Board of financial supervision Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba.

Willemstad:--- The Board of financial supervision Bonaire, Sint Eustatius en Saba (College financieel toezicht Bonaire, Sint Eustatius en Saba - Cft) ascertains that it can be determined that important progress has been made with regard to the budgeting processes for the public entities and that financial supervision is paying off. However, the financial management remains delicate. Cft declares this in the eighth semiannual report, which has been submitted to the minister of Internal Affairs and Kingdom Relations (Binnenlandse Zaken en Koninkrijksrelaties - BZK) on January 15th.
Cft determines that the processes for preparing and adopting the budgets, for the first time have taken place for all the legal entities within the legal terms. The adopted 2013 budgets are all balanced. This is among others related to the recent raise of the so called 'vrije uitkering'. Besides the reports concerning the execution of the budget are improving in quality. As it shows, the budgets for 2012 will close with a positive balance for all three of the public entities. Besides all the public entities have a positive liquidity balance. For Sint Eustatius counts that the Preceding Supervision (Voorafgaand Toezicht –VT), which has been introduced by the Minister of Internal Affairs and Kingdom Relations for 2012, as a consequence of complying with the agreements made with Cft, was terminated at the beginning of December 2012 with immediate effect by the Minister.

Despite the fact that the financial statements were prepared in time, in all cases a positive auditor's opinion is still lacking. Next to the further to be implemented improvements in financial management, the standards and assessment framework that still needs to be drafted and approved, which would enable auditors to give a positive opinion on the financial legitimacy, is still lacking. This forms a major challenge for the public entities, especially given the often mentioned capacity problems. Due to the limited qualitative and quantitative capacity on the islands, the Cft together with the islands stipulates each year only a few realistically achievable priorities. Because of the difference in progress between the public entities, the appointments differ per island.

In the short term the solving of the capacity problem (partly due to the local availability and the competition with other employers for attracting the currently present quality) will be particularly difficult for the public entities. The public entities are therefore still highly dependent on technical assistance. This assistance however is only temporary and very expensive. The Cft has advised the public entities to use an innovative approach to the capacity issue and to undergo a sourcing process. The results of a sourcing project could potentially result in the formation of a Shared Service Center or "twinning" with a municipality from the Netherlands.

In the formation of the public entities the possibility to obtain interest-free loans from a specialist department in the Netherlands was created. This allows for the public entities, in addition to the free allowance (vrije uitkering) from the Netherlands and the own income, a third way to obtain public funds investments. Late last year, the first agreements about this subject were reached between public entities and the relevant Dutch ministries. The Cft evaluates the relevant application on amongst others the repayment obligation related to this. It is important that these are properly integrated into the multiannual budget and that reservations are made for the maintenance costs associated with the investment.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The Department of Economic Affairs, Transportation and Telecommunication that falls under the responsibility of the Minister of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transportation and Telecommunications Hon. Romeo Pantophlet, can find on the government website the 2nd Quarter Macro-Monitor Report 2012.

Visit www.sintmaartengov.org; go to tab "Government," scroll down to "Ministry of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transportation and Telecommunications" link, go to "Department of Economic Affairs, Transportation and Telecommunications" and select the link "Economic Reports" and then select "2nd Quarter Macro-Monitor Report" for download.

The analysis and projections contained in the report highlights the critical parts of the department's observation and monitoring of economic developments and policies in St. Maarten as well as internationally.

The analysis, projections and policies are the product of a comprehensive interdepartmental review of world economic developments, which draws primarily on information received from key Government Departments and external stakeholders.

Projections were also based on results generated by the department Macro-Economic Model.

Special points of interest in the report are tourism data, balance of payments info and Gross Domestic Product. Besides the aforementioned, it contains assumptions and conventions, international, external, fiscal, and monetary sectors, prognosis/conclusion, and appendix and tables.

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- The Department of Economic Affairs, Transportation and Telecommunication, hereby informs the business community and investors that the "Sint Maarten Smaartmodel" presentation presented at the Carribbean Mini Macro Modeling Conference is available on the Government website.

The Smaartmodel is a practical analytical spreadsheet that contains all macroeconomic data. It is a tool to present a holistic view of the operations of the economy. It is a tool for impact analysis of policy measures and forecasting.

Visit www.sintmaartengov.org; go to tab "Government," scroll down to "Ministry of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transportation and Telecommunications" link, go to "Department of Economic Affairs, Transportation and Telecommunications" and select the link "Special Events" and then select "Macro Model Conference 2013" for download.

The main function of the Smaartmodel is analyzing, monitoring, forecasting, and impact analysis.

The presentation also includes historical data, assumptions, model overview, other linked models, protocols for requesting information and protocols for sharing information.

PHILIPSBURG:--- Parliamentarians will have a busy time next week with five meetings planned starting January 22 with the last one on January 25.

The Central Committee will meet on Tuesday afternoon at 2:00pm in the General Assembly Chamber of the House of Parliament at Wilhelmina Straat #1 in Philipsburg.

This meeting is a continuation from last where with respect to the St. Maarten Medical Center. The meeting was requested by the United People's (UP) Party faction, and the Minister of Public Health, Social Development and Labour Hon. Cornelius de Weever will be present to provide answer to questions asked in the first round by parliamentarians last year.

Members of Parliament (MPs) from the Permanent Justice Committee will be visiting the Point Blanche Prison.

The work visit will take place on Wednesday, 23 January at 9:00am.

Members of the parliamentary committee of Justice are Chairman Hon. MP Patrick Illidge, Vice Chairman Hon. MP George Pantophlet, Hon. MP Petrus Leroy De Weever, Hon. MP Gracita Arrindell, and Hon. MP Janchi Leonard.

A Central Committee meeting is planned for Wednesday afternoon January 23 at 2:00pm. It is a continuation of a meeting from the latter part of 2012 with the Minister of Justice Hon. Roland Duncan, where the Minister made a presentation about the Justice Park. Minister Duncan will be present in this meeting to respond to questions that were posed to him during the 2012 parliamentary session.

On Thursday, January 24 at 2:00pm in the afternoon, the Central Committee will meet with the Committee of Financial Supervision CFT with respect to the public finances of the country.

On Friday, January 25 at 10:00am in the morning, the Central Committee will meet with the Minister of Finance Hon. Roland Tuitt. This meeting is a continuation from the adjourned session in the latter part of 2012. The Minister of Finance will be present to continue to answer questions posed by MPs.

Members of the public are always welcome to be present in the General Assembly Chamber during public meetings to follow the parliamentary session scheduled for that particular day.

The House of Parliament is located across from the Court House.

The parliamentary sessions with the exception of the visit to the prison will be carried live on St. Maarten Cable TV Channel 120, via Pearl Radio FM 98.1, the audio via the Internet www.pearlfmradio.com, and also via www.sxmparliament.org.

Philipsburg:--- The Minister of Justice Roland Duncan told SMN News in an invited comment on Thursday that the Director of the Pointe Blanche Prison Edward Rohan is working on an action plan for the kitchen at the Pointe Blanche Prison. Minister Duncan said that he did receive the report that the Inspectorate of Health delivered on Wednesday to the prison but they are now working on an action plan to execute the advice provided to them by the Inspectorate of Health. The Inspectorate of Health conducted a control at the house of detention on Tuesday morning and wanted to close the kitchen because of its deplorable conditions. According to information provided to SMN News, the kitchen sinks were in terrible condition which poses severe health risks, the oil pits were leaking, and there was water running everywhere. Minister Duncan said that the kitchen is over 25 years old and he can guarantee that no one will be poisoned or get killed because of the dilapidated state of the kitchen at the Pointe Blanche Prison.

SMN News learnt that the Minister of Justice managed to find a workable and suitable kitchen at the Mental Health Foundation in Cay Hill. A reliable source said that the Minister found the new location because the Pointe Blanche Prison needs a new kitchen and that new kitchen is part of the Minister's plan in the Justice Park project. While the Minister of Justice introduced the one hundred million guilder project to Parliament, it has not yet been presented to them for approval.

When SMN News reporter asked the Minister of Justice about the new location he found in Cay Hill, the Minister of Justice said he does have an alternative plan but he would not divulge any information on it unless the agreement has been finalized.

While the local Inspectorate of health has given a bad report on the Pointe Blanche Prison especially the kitchen, it should be noted that two researchers are on the island compiling a report on the detention centers on St. Maarten.

The two researchers Vegter and Pesselse also work for the European Committee for Prevention and Torture (CPT) which compiles annual reports on prisons and other detention facilities. Last year, St. Maarten obtained a very bad report which was handed to the Governor of St. Maarten. One of the greatest fears is that is that if the CPT committee places St. Maarten as a country that violates human rights and prisoners especially since their prisons are not up to date, then the country will be considered as inhumane and degrading to prisoners. Being on such a list will have dire consequences to the country that thrives on tourism.

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) issued an epidemiological alert on Monday to all Western Hemisphere public health agencies with respect to increased influenza activity in North America.

The most affected age group in the United States of America with regard to influenza associated hospital admissions is persons 65 and older followed by the 0-4 year age group. For Canada, the influenza-like illness rates were the highest among persons within 5-19 years of age.

PAHO recommends to Member States to ensure adequate clinical management of patients, the implementation of prevention and control measures, while enhancing the preparedness of their health services to cope with a potential flux of patients. PAHO nor the World Health Organization, does not recommend any travel restrictions including screening at points of entry.

The Collective Prevention Services (CPS) of the Ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labour, recommended late last year at the start of the flu season for high risk groups to get their seasonal flu vaccination.

As part of the Minister of Public Health's "Get Checked," campaign, influenza is an acute viral infection that spreads very easily from person to person, and can affect anybody in any age group.

"Check with your physician to see whether or not you are part of the high risk group and be proactive. Get vaccinated and take measures to prevent you from getting the flu," Minister of Public Health, Social Development and Labour Hon. Cornelius de Weever said.

The submitted surveillance numbers to CPS determine the type of action to be undertaken as a response to any possible risk.

These numbers are submitted by the sentinel sites, which consists of a few volunteer physicians working along with CPS in monitoring the health of the local population.

For influenza like conditions the syndromes under surveillance are "fever and respiratory" and "undifferentiated fevers." For the period of December 30th 2012 to January 12th, 2013 which corresponds to the first two epidemiological weeks (EPI) in 2013, the reported number of fever and respiratory cases was 34.

In comparing 2013 to 2012, the reported number observed was 41, or 5% of all reported cases for that year. In 2011 the total number reported was 44 or 4% of all reported fever and respiratory cases.

For undifferentiated fever for the same two week period, six cases were reported for 2013. In comparison to 2012 the reported amount was two cases or <1% of all reported cases. In 2011, 28% of all cases of undifferentiated fever were reported in the first two weeks.

Influenza is a serious public health problem that causes severe illnesses and deaths for higher risk populations. Vaccination (flu shot) is the most effective way to prevent infection.

Members of the community are advised to check with their family physician on their seasonal flu vaccine and are strongly advised to take the necessary precautions to protect themselves and their family members from infection at home and especially traveling by maintaining high standards of personal hygiene.

Persons with fever in consultation with their physician should take the necessary preventive measures. Follow the advice given by your physician; take your medicine as prescribed if you forgot what the physician told you, call him/her; sneeze or cough in your arm sleeve or a tissue; and wash your hands frequently.

The primary form of influenza transmission is through interpersonal contact. Hand washing hands is the most effective way of reducing transmission.

Marigot:--- Former Director of Urbanism who was recently promoted as the Director of Service Technique Josi Carti is facing two months suspended sentenced for what the prosecutor termed as abusing his power for his own interest while he was the Director of Urbanism from 2002 to 2003.

Carti appeared in the Criminal Courts on St. Martin on Thursday charged with "Prise Ilegal D'Interets par charge de mission public dans une Affaire. Dont il assure l'administration ou la surveillance commis du 1 Janvier 2002 au 31 Décembre 2003 à St. Martin."

The President of the Court in reading the charges to Carti said that Carti while being head of Urbanism applied for a building permit for his company "Societe Civile de Construction Vente SCCV Tropicana" and obtained the building permit in less than two months. Josi Carti owns 85% shares in SCCV Tropicana. SCCV Tropicana requested the building permit on April 5th, 2002 and it was granted on May 21st, 2002.

The President of the Court said a former member of the municipal council and his daughter sold land to SCCV Tropicana. The President in his remarks while reading from the file said that he is of the opinion that there were group of people working in the commune with bad intentions. The building permit was signed off by Mayor Albert Fleming. Several persons including the former director of SEMSAMAR Jean-Paul Fisher was questioned during the investigation.

This company constructs apartment buildings for the purpose of selling. The President of the Court told Carti that the investigation started when an association who was also interested in the development of a property in La Colmbe in Concordia filed a complaint against him. The association "La Colombe et ses Evirons" was also interested in the purchasing the same property.

According to the court, Carti gave one of his subordinates his file to sign off on while not telling the civil servant that the company was his or that he owns most of the shares in the company. SCCV Tropicana has six apartment buildings, one of which was sold. The civil servant Serge Weimum told the investigating judge that he did not perform his duties to verify the ownership and the documents that were in the file. However, the court believes that Carti prepared his file and used the person working under him to sign off on his request in a nick of time.

The President asked Carti several questions pertaining to his company, he asked him what was his salary at the Collectivity which he said is Euros 3,800 per month, the President of the Court also wanted to know if Carti receives dividends from the company and if he declares these incomes when filing his taxes? Josi Carti told the court that the company does not pay out dividends and only one of the apartments was sold.

Carti told the court that even though he is a civil servant who was working for the commune at the time he formed the company to build his future since he is the father of four children. He also informed the court that he regretted opening such a company because if he did not he would have been standing before him on Thursday.

Prosecutor Patrick de Firmae asked Carti why the detectives who investigated the case could not find a certain document in his file when they collected it from the Collectivity, Carti told the Prosecutor he did not know but when the investigators asked him about the document he provided them with a copy of the missing document. Prosecutor de Firmae said that the infractions committed by Carti were not very serious, therefore he asked the court to condemn Carti to two months suspended sentence.

Attorneys at Law Paris and Maitre Karine Jaulin told the court that Carti did not break the law. Both attorneys asked the court why Wienum was not charged even though he admitted to the court that he did not perform his duties. Maitre Paris also stated that it is the Prefecture that has to verify and see if the building permit that was delivered to SCCV Tropicana was in conformity with the law. The Court will pronounce its decision on February 14th, 2013.

Marigot:--- A French Taxi Driver and father of a 16 year old daughter was condemned to 18 months suspended sentence on Thursday for sexual aggression of his minor daughter. The father identified as L.L. of Grand Case was sentenced to 18 months suspended sentence with a probation period of two years. He also lost his civil rights for a period of three years and his parental rights to his minor daughter. Another hearing will take place on March 28th, 2013 in the Civil Courts because the victim has petitioned the court for the damages she suffered at the hands of her father.

It should be noted that the father did not sexually molest his daughter but he appeared to have touched his daughter inappropriately.

Much-Anticipated Logo and Livery Revealed Today as
American Prepares to Fly Flagship 777-300ER

FORT WORTH, Texas:--- It's a new year and a fresh new look for American Airlines as the company today unveils a new logo and exterior for its planes, including the already delivered Flagship Boeing 777-300ER aircraft set to fly on Jan. 31. In addition, American plans to continue taking delivery of new planes this year as part of its historic orders for 550 new aircraft. The unveiling of the new logo and livery is the latest step forward in American's ongoing journey toward building a more modern travel experience for its customers.

"Since placing our landmark aircraft order in July of 2011, we've been building anticipation toward a moment in time when the outside of our aircraft reflects the progress we've made to modernize our airline on the inside," said Tom Horton, American's Chairman and CEO. "While we complete the evaluation of whether a merger can build on American's strengths, we remain steadfast in each step we take to renew our airline, a step we take with great respect for our name American. Today marks important progress in that journey as we unveil a new and updated look for the first time in more than 40 years."

American is preparing to take delivery of hundreds of new, lighter aircraft featuring composite materials that must be painted. Since the polished metal look was no longer an option, the importance of the paint selection became critical to honoring American's silver bird legacy. Silver mica paint was chosen as a way to maintain the silver heritage which American's people and customers are passionate about, yet progress ahead with a clean new look.

"Our new logo and livery are designed to reflect the passion for progress and the soaring spirit, which is uniquely American," said Virasb Vahidi, American's Chief Commercial Officer. "Our core colors -- red, white and blue – have been updated to reflect a more vibrant and welcoming spirit. The new tail, with stripes flying proudly, is a bold reflection of American's origin and name. And our new flight symbol, an updated eagle, incorporates the many icons that people have come to associate with American, including the 'A' and the star."
Since entering the restructuring process, American has made a series of strategic investments designed to place customers at the center of all it does and give employees the tools, training and leading technologies they need to provide customers with a uniquely American experience, while also creating growth and opportunity for its people.

Today's news is a reminder that while there are still significant decisions that need to be made about the future of the company, American remains focused on continuing the forward movement of the many investments that have been announced in the past year, including:

• Industry's Most Modern Fleet: This year, American will take delivery of nearly 60 new aircraft, including the new Boeing 777-300ER which will enter into service on Jan. 31. In July, American will begin taking delivery of Airbus aircraft made of lighter, more fuel efficient composite materials, which must be painted. The airline continues investments to offer state-of-the-art inflight Wi-Fi, in-seat entertainment, universal AC power outlets at every seat, and Main Cabin Extra seating on all mainline aircraft. In addition, American has plans to offer fully lie-flat premium class seats on all of the airline's widebody aircraft and transcontinental fleet.
• Expanded International Service: American strengthens its network this year with expanded service to more destinations worldwide, including more international and domestic routes from Dallas/Fort Worth, more European and domestic service from Chicago O'Hare, new service to Europe from New York, and new service from Miami to Latin America and the Caribbean. This year, American also will begin the following international services: Dallas/Fort Worth ─ Seoul, South Korea; Dallas/Fort Worth ─ Lima, Peru; Dallas/Fort Worth – Bogota, Colombia; Chicago O'Hare ─ Dusseldorf, Germany; New York JFK ─ Dublin, Ireland; Miami – Pointe-a-Pitre, Guadeloupe; Miami – Fort-de-France, Martinique; Miami – Curitiba, Brazil; and Miami – Porto Alegre, Brazil.
• Information in an Instant: The airline announced plans to supply flight attendants, pilots, and maintenance workers with their own tablet devices, designed to give them real-time information and better operational insights to do their job more efficiently. Beginning next month, employees will also be equipped with new technologies at the airport designed to make the travel experience easier and more convenient.
• Top-Notch Onboard Experience: Earlier this month, the airline rolled out new enhancements in premium class cabins on international routes, including elegant new china, more menu choices, and a more personalized service similar to a restaurant. In addition, American will expand the availability of Samsung Galaxy tablets for entertainment use in the premium cabins to more routes later this year.

American Eagle and the AAdvantage® program also will get a new look as of today. The first American Eagle plane will fly the new livery beginning in February. Updating the new look across American's network is a long process and will be rolled out over time to the airline's airports, interiors and exteriors of aircraft, new uniforms, products and services, and technology platforms like AA.com and the American mobile apps.

American's new look was created with input from our customers and our people, and in partnership with FutureBrand – a leading global brand consultancy. In addition, American today launches a new advertising campaign designed to showcase the new look. The advertising campaign was developed with agency partner McCann Worldgroup.

For more information on American's new look, and to keep up with progress as the brand rollout continues, visit aa.com/newamerican.

I commend the St. Maarten Hospitality & Trade Association (SHTA) for taking the initiative to establish an Environmental Defence Fund. I also take this opportunity as a promoter for the environment to commend all other environmental organizations and groups for their good efforts towards our community.

The SHTA intends to use to use the funds that they receive from our community to generate funds for legal action against the degradation of the natural, cultural and social environment on Sint Maarten.

I am calling on the people of this great country as well as the business community to contribute on a monthly basis to this fund so that the SHTA can use these funds in a wise manner for various environmental projects. I will be making a personal contribution to the fund and I call on all my colleague parliamentarians to do the same.

The bank account at the Scotiabank is as follows: SHTA 1015922.

Every Sint Maartener has a stake in our environment and the preservation of such. Every little measure taken to treat our environment better will lead to a better society.

Sustainable development is necessary at this point in time and everybody has a role to play.

I have made considerable progress with drafting a law to ban disposable plastic bags. They are a severe threat to our community especially our marine environment. I will be presenting this piece of legislation within short.

Johan "Janchi" Leonard
Member of Parliament, United People's (UP) Party

Philipsburg:--- Soualiga Corporate Toastmasters Club opened the year by inducting 5 new members, namely: Tamara Groeneveldt, Community Police Officers Daryl Chandler, Shawn Crispulo, Rensley Henson, and Arcella Leonard.

After a short Christmas break the Soualiga Toastmasters enthusiastically returned to the lectern on Wednesday January 9th. Observing the theme "movies" new and seasoned Toastmasters, as well as guests, fancied themselves on a movie set. In Academy Award style several Toastmasters were recognized for their constant support, commitment and progress.

With a lot of innovative and creative activities and meetings coming up, 2013 promises to be a very active year for the Toastmasters club for civil servants. Toastmasters International is a nonprofit educational organization that teaches communication and leadership skills through a worldwide network of more than 13,000 clubs in 116 countries. On St. Maarten there are currently 5 clubs. For more information on the Soualiga Corporate Toastmasters you can check out their Facebook page.

The Minister of Finance Roland Tuitt's forecasted windfall for 2013 is more like wishful thinking. This is setting up low and middle income earners at the beginning of the New Year for a big fall at year-end when the Minister can't deliver on his promise. Like one newspaper editorial said, don't hold your breath.

It makes no sense as a responsible Minister when you can't give a timeline for this windfall, and it boils down to political rhetoric.

The UP faction would welcome financial relief for persons who earn Naf. 5000 or less.

The best approach, and we reiterate, that going after the unregistered businesses will result in a more balanced revenue system for the Government as there will be more tax payer's, translating into more tax revenues for the country's treasury. This is more realistic rather than the Minister's windfall wishful thinking approach. This would translate into tax relief for the people where the wage tax could be lowered putting more money back into the hands of the workers and into the economy.

The Committee for Financial Supervision CFT has already dealt the Minister of Finance and the Government overall a blow with respect to giving a negative advice on the Minister's first budget under the new NA led coalition.

We can all recall back in 2010 when the NA led coalition left the country hanging with a Naf.100 million deficit that had to be cleared up by the UP led coalition. People have not forgotten! Yes, the UP had to increase the Turn over Tax (TOT) from three to five per cent, but it was a necessity as we took over the transition from Island Territory to Country status.

Our people understand that we needed to build new institutions from the ground up as a new country and this came with a cost. Today, the country is much better organized due to the initial investments that were made in order to be able to provide the basic necessary services demanded by our community, and to have the primary democratic institutions that govern us under the rule of law in place for the start-up and in moving our country forward.

Sylvia Meyers
United People's (UP) Party Interim Faction Leader

Advice deviates from government proposals on important issues

PHILPSBURG----The much anticipated SER advice entitled "The AOV system made Affordable, Sustainable and Equitable" is now available to the general public. This advice pertains to a policy plan drafted by the government's Steering group on pension reform. The policy paper dealt with proposed measures to reform Sint Maarten's AOV entitlement system, and ensure the financial health of the AOV fund in the long run. In their advice, the SER deviates on important points from the government proposals and formulates alternative recommendations of their own. The document is now available on the SER website www.sersxm.org. All components of the advice mentioned below were approved unanimously by the nine SER members, comprised of representatives from the labour unions, the business community and independent experts.

The need for AOV reform is caused on the one hand by the difference between the original Netherlands Antilles population composition and the Sint Maarten situation. This causes the premium percentages to be high in the context of our relatively young population, causing the premiums collected to be higher. At the same time, many aspects of the AOV system are outdated, such as the amount of the entitlement, and the pension age. Finally, all measures together need to add up to a sustainable and financially sound AOV fund. The SER recommendations are based on the same points of departure and methods of calculation used by the government's steering group.

Increase the AOV benefit to Naf 1,000

The SER supports the government intention, already implemented, to raise the monthly AOV benefit to Naf. 1,000. Although this is a level still below the minimum wage, it is a necessary step, long overdue, to bring the AOV closer to a level sufficient to allow for basic subsistence.

Premium to be levied on all income up to 100,000

Currently AOV premium is calculated over income up to Naf 80,336 annually. This amount needs to be corrected for inflation periodically, and is now raised to Naf. 100,000. The SER supports this government intention. It needs to be said that nobody will actually pay more premium according to the SER proposal, for the SER – contrary to government - also recommends a reduction of the premium percentages.

SER: reduce premium percentage with 1.5% for both employees and employers

Currently employers pay 7% AOV premium while employees pay 6% over the workers' wages. These are very high percentages, stemming from the relatively 'old' population composition of the Netherlands Antilles. The government proposals however do not include any reduction of premium percentages. The SER on the other hand advises to lower the premium percentages to reflect the younger Sint Maarten population. Employer contribution should be reduced from 7 to 5.5 percent, while employees should pay 4.5 instead of 6 percent. This means an instant reduction in wage costs for all businesses of almost 1.5%, and an immediate increase in purchasing power for all wage earners of around 1.5% as well.

Keep AOV affordable in the long run by gradually raising AOV age

The SER agrees with government in gradually increase AOV age from 60 to 62 over the course of the years. This follows international trends, as there is hardly any country in the world with a state pension starting at 60, even 62 is comparatively low. This measure cuts both ways: workers will pay into the AOV system for more years, while the number of years of AOV entitlement is reduced. However, after having increases the entitlement age to 62, in approximately 2017, the SER advises to gradually go on increasing the AOV age to 65. This will ensure long-term sustainability of the AOV fund and take away the need to increase premium percentages again.

Full AOV after 10 or more active years on Sint Maarten

Government intends to maintain the present law, stipulating that only people who have lived in the Antilles or Sint Maarten for 45 years, from age 15 to age 60, will receive full AOV. With less than 45 years in the Antilles, a retiree receives proportionally less AOV. The SER does not consider this justifiable however, as we have many immigrants in Sint Maarten who chose to make the island their permanent home and contributed to our economic development, and who are at a disadvantage once they retire, because they did not live in Sint Maarten for the first part of their life. The SER recommends granting anyone who has ten or more years of active career on Sint Maarten, full AOV, reduced of course by entitlements the person may get from an earlier country of residence.

Additional pension plan necessary

Next to AOV, a lot of work needs to be done in the field of additional pension plans. Only 36% of the Sint Maarten working population has a pension plan additional to AOV. The other 64% will have to rely on their savings or on private life insurance they have taken out on their own initiative to ensure a comfortable old age. Factors that contribute to this situation are the lack of employment based pension plans, combined with the absence of tax deduction for private pension insurance.

Make private pension plans (lijfrente) tax deductible up to Naf. 12,000 annually

The great majority of workers lack any supplementary pension plan above AOV, it is therefore recommendable to take out private pension insurance (known in Dutch as lijfrente). The premiums involved are tax deductible in most countries, on the same footing as pension premiums. However in Sint Maarten only Naf. 1,000 is deductible annually, which is an insignificant sum for this purpose. Government rejected initial proposals to increase the tax deductibility to Naf. 12,000 a year. The SER however does advise to increase the private pension premium tax deduction to Naf 12,000.

Follow up with general supplementary pension arrangement

The SER fully supports the government intention to follow up the AOV reforms with research into a general employment based pension scheme supplemental to AOV, taking into account the very low coverage of workers under such pension plans. The recently introduced general pension scheme in Aruba may serve as an example to this effect.

SER proposals more equitable, yet ensure financial durability

Compared to the government proposals, the AOV reform advised by the SER adds some equitable and economically justified points, while still ensuring financial durability of the AOV system in the long run, as the graph below illustrates.
The current surplus situation, in which premiums collected are higher than AOV paid out, will last until 2027 at least. The AOV fund reserves will therefore keep growing until that year, topping off at more than Naf. 600 million, only to decrease slowly over the decade after that.

In conclusion, the SER advice ensures financial durability, meanwhile – contrary to government proposals - lowering AOV premiums for employers and employees alike and granting long settled immigrants full AOV.

Click here to view the full SER advice on AOV Reform.

Philipsburg:--- The seven Ministers from the Council of Ministers representing the National Alliance, Democratic Party, and Independent Members of Parliament launched the long overdue Governing program on Wednesday at the Sonesta Great Bay Resort. Those that attended the launching of the Governing Program for the years 2012 to 2014 were not too impressed because most of what was given in the presentations by each Minister was information that was provided to the media already. The governing program that was presented on Monday is one that was put together by the current government who took office nineteen months after St. Maarten became a country within the Kingdom of the Netherlands. The National Alliance, Democratic Party, and the Independent Members of Parliament formed the current government in May 21st, 2012 under the theme "Working for the People". This new government represents ten of the fifteen parliamentary seats. In the government declaration that was signed by the new coalition they promised to work and develop several areas in their action plan. Those areas are education, infrastructure, district improvement, housing, health care, social welfare, economy, environment, safety, and security.

The first Minister to make his presentation to the gathering was Deputy Prime Minister William Marlin whose portfolios are housing, environment, infrastructure, energy affairs, and spatial development. Marlin reminded the gathering that it is almost eight months ago his government (second government since St. Maarten became a country) took office. Marlin said that his Ministry has been placing focus on the governing program which he said would enhance the various districts and businesses will be more active.

Marlin made clear that every Minister that forms the current coalition government has a role to play in order for them to reach the goals they set for the people of St. Maarten. Marlin said his Ministry is busy working on the huge backlog of building permits requests. Another focus for the VROMI Minister is to provide clean and affordable housing for the people of St. Maarten. Marlin said his government realized how important it is to make available cheap and affordable housing especially for those that are now renting. He said another aim of his government is to pursue public and private partnership to eradicate the "shanty towns". He said now that government is faced with the reality of no more domain land available to them, they are now purchasing land to provide a decent living. Marlin said the development of districts in partnerships has several benefits to providing people with decent living accommodation. He said social cohesion and integration will be encouraged by programs that uplift the districts through decent homes, adequate infrastructure, with overall cleanliness. Marlin further explained that the construction of two, three, and four bedroom homes already started with a target group being the young professionals. He said the profits that are made from the sale of those homes will go towards the re-financing the social homes and the expansion of the home program for senior citizens with an additional 24 homes which are constructed in the Belvedere area. Marlin said his government's intention is to offer homes to senior citizens for no more than $50.00 per month. Government is still working on finalizing the purchase of Emilio Wilson Estate.

Marlin said the community district report paints a stark picture of the ten districts. He said the residents of these districts complained about the running sewage and other water and its stench. The VROMI Minister said very soon this plague will be a thing of the past.

VROMI is also concentrating on constructing a waste treatment plant for Cole Bay and Cape Bay area. Garbage disposal has been a serious challenge to government for decades. Marlin said the dumping of waste in the middle of the Great Salt Pond created a man made mountain which stands at 24m high. He said his government is in the process of working out plans to offer a sustainable solution to waste management.

Marlin further explained that the intention of his government is to build links two and six while they intend to complete the ring road.

The second Minister that gave a presentation was Minister of Justice Roland Duncan. Duncan promised to submit a list with the actions his Ministry has undertaken and plans to undertake. Duncan said while there is a need for public safety and security there is a 'red line" running through the entire matter. With regards to safety and security, the Minister said the police needs to be upgraded while there is a great need for more infrastructures. Duncan said one of the things that the people need to know is that the current police headquarter is in need of urgent repairs. The justice minister said just recently they acquired a property in Sucker Garden and the intention is move some of the offices to the new building and they will construct a police training center and the same location. A gym, two shooting ranges, and classrooms would also be at that location. He said the community police have been installed.

Duncan said when they look at the youths and solving crime they also have to take into consideration article 30 of the country's constitution which clearly states that youth and adult prisoners cannot be together, however, there are no facilities in place to house young criminals. St. Maarten has to build and provide more space so that they can comply with the constitution of the country. Duncan said the prosecutor had to agree not to touch certain areas because of the problems that exist at the Pointe Blanche Prison.

The Justice Minister further stated that prisoners have a right to rehabilitation while the Justice Ministry also has to deal with problems of the youth (criminals) and he already has a comprehensive plan which he will soon deliver to Parliament and other stakeholders. He said if the Justice Ministry does not get the necessary tools and facilities then they will not be able to execute the new penal code which was recently approved by parliament.

Finance Minister Roland Tuitt in his presentation focused on tax compliance and the changes that have been made to the road tax (number plates). Tuitt said he is happy that after eight months of hard work the NA,DP, IND Government is able to present its governing program. Tuitt said since the change of constitutional status where country St. Maarten is operating in a dualistic manner each Minister within the Council of Ministers can take their own decisions. Tuitt said due to the economic and challenging times it is imperative that the government works with its people. He said it is only when government and its people are working towards a common goal progress will become a reality.

Tuitt said his Ministry is tasked with safeguarding the finances and well being of government. The Finance Minister said his government's intention is to improve the financial situation on St. Maarten. Therefore, they have been working with the tax authority to improve compliance. He said they are receiving some assistance from the Dutch Government while he is also focusing on cleaning up the tax registry by writing off old debts. Tuitt said while he is making several changes in order to benefit the government and tax payers, he is not able to do it if he does not have the right tools. That is why his Ministry is busy working on putting in place a proper ICT system which would connect all the various departments. The ICT installation is expected to be finalized by February 2013.

Minister of Education, Sports, and Youth Affairs Silveria Jacobs in her presentation said that her Ministry has placed focus on where the Education Ministry is going. The aim of the Ministry is to be efficient and effective in order to deliver a well rounded education to the youths of St. Maarten. Minister Jacobs said the objective of her Ministry is to set national standards, while building education and pride for the students on St. Maarten. The Education Minister said she is also focusing on improving the literacy level of English and Dutch in all schools on St. Maarten. As for culture, she said her aim is to promote culture continuously.

Minister of Health, Social Affairs, and Labour Cornelius de Weever dubbed his Ministry as the most hardworking Ministry. Minister De Weever said he has budget of 59 million guilders with 29 civil servants working in the Ministry. De Weever said in the year 2011 it was about laying the foundation while during the year 2012 they executed. He said his Ministry is critical to society therefore he took the responsibility to ensure sustainable growth, employment, social safety, and improved health status for the people of St. Maarten.
Minister of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transportation, and Telecommunication Romeo Pantophlet told the gathering that his Ministry is the biggest and busiest in the Council of Ministers. Pantophlet said that government owned companies, such as the airport, harbor, and the disaster management plan falls under him including the small business association and EDC. Minister Pantophlet said that in the tourism industry they have been busy working on the St. Maarten Tourism Authority (STA). Minister Pantophlet said he started working with the Tourist Office to ensure that the island is properly marketed. The tourism Minister said he has been planning to embark on aggressive tourism marketing program where they will be focusing on the Latin American, Canadian, Scandinavian, and German markets. Pantophlet said that 60% of the tourists come from the United States and he is of the opinion that they have to have a backup plan. The Minister said he also concentrating on the South American market in order to have year round tourism on St. Maarten. The Minister said that the next FCCA conference will be held on St. Maarten and that would enable the island to market itself better while bringing in additional income. Another convention that will be held on St. Maarten is the COPA convention which they are currently working on. Minister Pantophlet said when it comes to diversification in the tourism industry they plan to focus on medical tourism, sports tourism, religious tourism, and the MICE tourism. He said the intention is to have a convention center built on the island where they can host more conventions. With this in mind the Minister said that St. Maarten would need additional facilities such as the drag strip and cricket stadium. The Minister assured that the two projects the (drag strip and cricket stadium) will be built. He said a decision will be taken by the Politicians on its location but he will not get into the discussion since he is a professional Minister.
The last speaker was Prime Minister Sarah Wescot Williams who said that the governing program will be promoted widely through the social media in the form of a Facebook page, where the community of St. Maarten can keep up to date with both the launching and components of the program.

Wescot Williams said that in the Governing Program the Government of St. Maarten has prioritized areas impacting the lives of the citizens of modern day St. Maarten and has directed its focus toward the enhancement of the quality of life of the people. This focus of the Governing Program is on EDUCATION, INFRASTRUCTURE, DISTRICT IMPROVEMENT AND HOUSING, HEALTH CARE AND SOCIAL WELFARE, ECONOMY, ENVIRONMENT, and SAFETY AND SECURITY.

The three hour program ended with a get together at the Sonesta Great Bay Resort.

Click here to view more photos of the NA/DP/IND3 Governing Program Launch.

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Minister of Public Health, Social Development, and Labour Hon. Cornelius de Weever and the social dialogue group known as the Tripartite that includes representatives from Government, Unions, and Business, have reached consensus that the minimum wage should be applicable from the age of 18 as of January 1st, 2014.

These discussions took place during the annual indexation of the minimum wage round-table talks.

The current minimum wage is applicable for person's 21-years and older. In the position paper prepared by the Labour Department on the minimum wages, it was proposed to amend the national ordinance on minimum wages to reflect the present policy insights, which would include lowering the age from 21 to 18. Coincidentally, during the discussions in the Tripartite Committee the UFA tabled a similar proposal which was unanimously endorsed.

The Minister of Labour Hon. Cornelius de Weever is very pleased that under the status of country Sint Maarten, the nation will be moving forward in improving the well-being of minimum wage earners in collaboration with other stakeholders.

The underlying motivation for lowering the age bracket is when a person reaches the age of 18, they are considered independent and ready to enter the workforce.

By allowing young people between the age of 18 and 21-years of age to earn the minimum wage, this will have a positive spin off on the economy as it will allow this group of consumers with a minimum income to buy products and services.

The Labour Department will now initiate the process to amend the present legislation and will also draft a modern wage policy, with the input of the Tripartite group.

The current minimum wage legislation dates back to the time of the former Netherlands Antilles.

Public to be updated on the various segments of the program.

The soon to be launched NA/DP/I-3 Governing Program will have a social media component in the form of a Facebook page, where the community can keep up to date with both the launching as well as the different components comprising the program.

In the Governing Program the Government of St. Maarten has prioritized areas impacting the lives of the citizens of modern day St. Maarten and has directed its focus toward the enhancement of the quality of life of the people. This focus of the Governing Program is on EDUCATION, INFRASTRUCTURE, DISTRICT IMPROVEMENT AND HOUSING, HEALTH CARE AND SOCIAL WELFARE, ECONOMY, ENVIRONMENT, and SAFETY AND SECURITY.

The Governing Program will be officially launched on Wednesday, the 16th of January at the Sonesta Great Bay Beach Hotel during which every Minister will give an outline concerning the projects of their respective Ministry. On a regular basis updates on the projects of the various Ministries will be posted on the GP Facebook Page. The web link for the page is http://www.facebook.com/TheGoverningProgram20122014OfCountryStMaarten.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- The Ministry of Education, Culture, Youth Affairs and Sports (Ministry ECYS) says that it is with great concern that we have taken note of an article that appeared in the Daily Herald of January 16, 2013 under the heading; "USC officials worried government not recognizing teaching degrees".

Statements in this article attributed to USC Academic Dean Dr. Clayton DrePaul regarding the fact 15 to 20 teachers' jobs may be in jeopardy because USC's accreditation issue are erroneous and misleading.

The Ministry of Education, Culture, Youth and Sports Affairs wishes to assure school boards, teachers, parents/guardians and students that no teachers are in jeopardy of losing their job. It is rather unfortunate that after what can be termed as a fruitful meeting with USC officials, the misinformation of the public took place in this manner.

The Ministry through the Division of Educational Innovations (DEI) has organized Foundation Based Education Certification training programs for uncertified teachers. As such all uncertified teachers have been given ample opportunity to become compliant with the existing Foundation Based Education (FBE) laws (article 3).

Since 10-10-10, the Division of Exams has assumed the responsibility for the evaluation of degrees on St. Maarten. Two persons within the Division have been trained and certified by NUFFIC to evaluate degrees and credentials. The NUFFIC are the experts in the Netherlands in the area of credential evaluations. The NUFFIC is not an accreditation agency as is being suggested in the article.

The FBE ordinance mandates that all teaching degrees obtained outside of the former Netherlands Antilles must be evaluated. Since 2011, the Division of Exams has evaluated only four USC degrees. These degrees were not recognized due to the fact that USC only finalized its accreditation in May 2012.

The Ministry of Education, Culture, Youth and Sports Affairs is responsible for ensuring a high quality of education on St. Maarten. As such checks and balances have to be put in place to safeguard our educational system against persons with bogus degrees and/or degrees obtained from so-called degree mills.

The Government of St. Maarten subsidizes the Teachers Education Program at the University of St. Maarten and has placed as a prerequisite, the NVAO (The Accreditation Organization of the Netherlands and Flanders) accreditation, as such regional and international educational institutions will be held to similar standards.

N.V. G.E.B.E. regrets to inform the general public that the Electricity supply to

SUCKERGARDEN ROAD

(Suckergarden Drive, Cob Cactus, Christmas Cactus, Doodle Cactus and surrounding area .)

Will be interrupted on Thursday January 17, 2013 from 9:00am until 11:00am.

This outage will allow us to carry out necessary maintenance to our Distribution system.

N.V. G.E.B.E apologizes for any inconvenience this may cause.

N.V. G.E.B.E. regrets to inform the general public that the Electricity supply to

HULDA RICHARDSON ROAD

(Pinel Key Drive, Eluthra Drive, Defiance road up to Inagua Island Drive, and surrounding area.)

Will be interrupted on Thursday January 17, 2013 from 11:00am until 2:00pm.

This outage will allow us to carry out necessary maintenance to our Distribution system.

N.V. G.E.B.E apologizes for any inconvenience this may cause.

ST. MAARTEN:--- With a recently completed $3 million refurbishment and enhancement, the all-inclusive Sonesta Maho Beach Resort & Casino and Casino Royale will be hosting the 25th Portuguese CHIN Winter Picnic and 25th Italian CHIN Winter Picnic showcasing the international atmosphere of the property.

Join the fun at the 25th Portuguese CHIN Winter Picnic taking place January 10, 2013 to January 24, 2013 and the 25th Italian CHIN Winter Picnic running from January 31st, 2013 to February 21st, 2013. With a completed $3 million refurbishment and enhancement, the 4-star all inclusive Sonesta Maho Beach Resort & Casino is THE place to party in 2013!

Participants can enjoy performances including an array of local and international stars directly from Portugal, Canada and Italy featuring Paolo Mengoli, Fernando Pereira, Steve Vieira, Nancy Costa and Toy presented by CHIN Radio. Guests will also be provided with a commemorative 25th CHIN Winter Picnic gift package.

Weekly activities taking place during the Portuguese CHIN Winter Picnic include:

• Card game tournament in the Royal Pavilion Room complete with dancing and prizes awarded to the winners – January 15th and January 22nd.
• An authentic Portuguese dinner prepared by Chef Manuel de Paulos with live music and entertainment – January 16th and January 23rd.
• Nightly Performances each night exclusively for CHIN winter Picnic guests.

Additionally, exclusive activities during Italian CHIN Winter Picnic include:

• Spaghettata- a huge favorite with CHIN listeners. CHIN offers an exclusive weekly Italian luncheon for all registered CHIN Winter Picnic guests.
• Dancing under the stars: Nightly dancing to Italian music provided by local and international artists each night.
• Weekly Tombola/Scopa tournaments.
• Gala Dinner/Dance: Exclusive event offered weekly for registered CHIN Winter Picnic guests featuring fine Italian cuisine plus a live show and dancing.
• CHIN Personalities: Each week a different CHIN personality will be your host and master of ceremonies for all CHIN events.
• Guest star direct from Italy: Main attraction performs each night exclusively for CHIN Winter Picnic guests on a select week.

Tickets are $320.00 USD and do not include taxes. Price is subject to change without notice. For a complete itinerary of activities, please visit http://www.chinradio.com/

All Children's Education Foundation (ACE) elementary school recently received a generous donation from Tzu Chi Foundation thanks to a combined fundraising effort from Tzu Chi and several community groups.

Together the groups held a fundraising food sale on 'International Meatless Day' late last year and raised US $8,687.25 for the school. The donation, presented in two parts the last part made last week, will be used to help keep the doors of the elementary school open to continue to educate its children.

The fundraiser was coordinated by the Tzu Chi Foundation in collaboration with the Sri Sathya Sai Seva Organization; Filipino Community Foundation; Chinese Community Foundation; Haitian Community, Pathways to Health and Happiness Foundation and ACE.

The ACE School had requested Tzu Chi's assistance to help the institution raise funds to help settle a huge backlog in rent for its current location due largely in part to consistent unpaid school fees. This, coupled with other issues, put the institution in dire financial straits and at risk of having to relocate if some of the backlog was not settled soon.

Tzu Chi immediately decided to help to ensure that the school and the education of its pupils were not jeopardized. The Foundation met with its volunteers and it was decided that a fundraiser would be held.

"In our discussions it was clear early on that it would take a collective cooperation of goodwill on short notice," Tzu Chi St. Maarten Commissioner Sandra Cheung said. "And with these difficult economic times, our strength would be our teamwork."

Representatives of the various community groups were happy to be part of the fundraiser, which was held on International Meatless Day to help spread awareness about healthy eating.

During the event Sabine Flanders shared information on healthy foods and how they can be prepared to patrons. Tzu Chi volunteer Frances Rovelet kept the younger patrons busy with games and raffles, while other volunteers assisted in other areas.

"Our community's greatest strength has always been its ethnic diversity. We are grateful for our united actions," said Cheung. "The event succeeded in helping the students and keeping the school open for the time being. All children deserve the right to an education. May all those that help be blessed."

Tzu Chi thanked all those who helped make the event a success including the Helping Hands Foundation, which donated tables; the business community, which donated items for raffles such as jewelry, perfumes, audio equipment, embroidered tablecloths, free haircuts and a camera; the Indian Community for providing food and entertainment; the Chinese and Filipino communities for the desserts and the local St. Maarten community for preparing Caribbean food.

"Every grain of rice, and every vegetable leaf, come by difficulty and hard work, eat gently, and taste mindfully, and be grateful to the blessings of all beings" ~ Tzu Chi Prayer.

PHILIPSBURG:--- For those interested in knowing about the country's lottery policy, you can find it on the government website.

Visit www.sintmaartengov.org; go to tab "Government," scroll down to "Ministry of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transportation and Telecommunications" link, go to "Department of Economic Affairs, Transportation and Telecommunications" and select the link "Policies" and then select "Lottery License Policy" for download.

The policy establishes the conditions under which lottery licenses are issued.

The policy applies to all new applications for a business and operational licenses whose purpose is for conducting a lottery.

The Ministry of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Traffic and Telecommunications are exploring economic alternatives that will create additional jobs and government revenue. The Ministry is therefore revising several of its moratoriums towards that goal.

Pointe Blanche:--- The Inspector of Health visited the house of detention in Pointe Blanche on Tuesday where they conducted a control. According to well placed sources, the Inspectorate of Health wanted to close the kitchen at the institution because of its deplorable condition, but hesitated to do so to save country St. Maarten further embarrassment. SMN News has been reliably informed that the Inspectorate of Health is expected to send their report to the director of the facility Edward Rohan as early as Wednesday. The source said inside the kitchen the sinks were in terrible condition which poses severe health risks, the oil pits need to be repaired because there is leakage, and paint is coming off the roof of the institution. "There is water everywhere running on the floor while there are loose tiles that have to be fixed." The inspectorate saw the same problems a year ago and made recommendations but now the Minister of Justice will be given a specific time frame in which he must have the repairs conducted. SMN News tried to contact the Director on several occasions but he could not be reached by telephone.

Sources within the institution said that renovations have to take place inside the entire house of detention but the renovations which were supposed to start three years ago had to be placed on hold because the Minister of Justice refused to send prisoners home to create space for the renovations. "The prison is in a deplorable condition and this is one of the reasons the Prison Inmate Association has been kicking up a storm. The prisoners went as far as striking and have refused to cook for the inmates. But instead of addressing the health hazard at the institution, the Minister of Justice Roland Duncan sought alternative solutions by hiring some workers to work inside the kitchen and prepare the meals for the inmates."

The Pointe Blanche House of Detention is 25 years old and renovations need to take place early. Another problem that is facing the institution is that it is overcrowded. The Minister of Justice Roland Duncan tried to create space by having as much as 150 prisoners at the Simpson Bay Immigration Outpost while part of the Police Holding Cells was turned into a prison. The source said even though the Minister created space at the two other locations for prisoners there is still not enough room for those that are held at the Pointe Blanche Prison to be moved so that renovations can start.

Currently the Minister of Justice is in discussion with Sameer Andrwos to utilize the BOX in Cay Hill for another prison and other justice institutions but to date the agreements with Andrwos have not been finalized. Political pundits have said on numerous occasions that they are watching closely to see how the National Alliance, Democratic Party, and IND Government will deal with the Justice Minister and his BOX project because they criticized the idea when they were in opposition and heard the Justice Minister was in talks with Andrwos for the BOX. Another project the Minister of Justice is working is the Justice Park which is expected to cost one hundred million guilders.

Efforts made to reach the Inspectorate of Health Dr. Earl Best on Tuesday evening proved futile as Dr. Best could not be reached by phone for a comment.

It should be noted that two researchers are expected to visit St. Maarten at the end of the week to conduct inspections at the prison. The two persons that are expected on the island are Vegter and Pesselse. According to well placed sources, the Governor of St. Maarten hired the services of the two researchers to conduct research at the Pointe Blanche Prison. Governor Holiday could not be reached for a comment on this matter.

The European Committee for Prevention and Torture (CPT) compiles annual reports on prisons and other detention facilities. Last year, St. Maarten obtained a very bad report which was handed to the Governor of St. Maarten. One of the greatest fears is that the CPT committee could place St. Maarten as a country that violates human rights and prisoners especially since their prisons are not up to date, then the country will be considered as inhumane and degrading to prisoners. Being on such a list will have dire consequences to the country which thrives on tourism.

In an invited comment, Minister of Justice Roland Duncan said he was made aware of the inspection and the conclusions the Health Inspectorate came to. However, the Minister said he does not have any monies to build a new kitchen for the Pointe Blanche Prison right now. When asked what would he do if he is given a specific time frame in which he must upgrade and renovate the kitchen at the prison, the Minister said he will do his best to comply with the conditions that are set by the Inspectorate of Health. "Reality is I don't have any monies for the renovation." It should also be noted that monies were allocated in the budgets for these projects since 2010 and it is not clear what the Prison management under the helm of Rudsel Ricardo did with these monies that were allocated for prison renovations which was in his year plan. SMN News understands that these institutions are supposed to provide quarterly reports to the Minister of Justice on how they used the monies that were allocated to them and other missions they have undertaken. Another big question is why the Minister of Justice is not using the monies that are in the Crime Fund to deal with urgent matters within the justice Ministry.

Minister Duncan further explained that he has a plan on the Justice Park which would include a kitchen but he is still working on the project which has to be presented to Parliament for approval. When asked by SMN News why he is not in favor of early release of the less dangerous suspects, Minister Duncan said he has a committee that advises him on these matters and when this particular discussion came up he got a negative advice. SMN News asked the Minister of Justice who are the members of this advisory committee which he established to advise him on issues such as these, Minister Duncan said he will not reveal the names of the committee members because he has to protect their well being and safety. However, the Minister did confirm that two persons are expected on St. Maarten at the end of the week to evaluate the prison.

Philipsburg:--- President of the Windward Island Teachers Union (WITU) and Vice President of the Windward Islands Chamber of Labour Unions (WICLU) Claire Elshot made a strong call to all pensioners who believe that they are being short-changed to contact the Unions or APS to rectify their status so that they can obtain all that is due to them. Elshot made the statements on Tuesday at WICLU's weekly press conference.

Elshot said that pensioners confirmed to the unions that they received the 3.2% Cost of Living Adjustments (COLA). The unionist further explained that persons receiving old age pension also received an increase but there needs to be more clarity on this issue. She said SZV would be applying a different calculation depending on the amount of years the person contributed to the pension fund. Elshot said there are persons who will see an increase but not the full amount that was announced. The WITU President said she is of the opinion that SZV should come out and give their clients a thorough explanation as to how they will calculate and apply the increase for pensioners. Pensioners who were receiving full pension prior to the increase (NAF 800 and over) will now get Naf. 1000.00 or 990 guilders because for some reason Naf. 10 is withheld.

Elshot has called on her members and persons who recently went on pension (5 years or less) to pay keen attention to the information she is providing. She said the allowances by means of pension or onderstand have been on the books so that persons who worked for 30 years or more will not go home empty handed. This fund she said was made available especially for those persons who were not registered in the former APNA. Elshot said that besides the SZV and APS pension there are persons who would get the allowances which would help to make up the full amount that is due to them. The allowances she said is 75% of what the person/ workers would have gotten if they were inscribed at APNA (pension fund) for the full amount of years. Civil servants will get 75% while other workers such as laborers would receive 50% of what they were supposed to have gotten from the pension fund.

Elshot said the lack of information from St. Maarten, awareness, and proper inscription was extremely faulty. The WITU president said this has been a problem for years now and because of that several workers who gave years of service lost their benefits. Elshot said a particular senior civil servant working for personnel affairs did not do their jobs properly and in an effort to cover up their incompetence they tried to get some workers whose paper work were not done or completed by the department to sign waivers on their rights. Elshot personally intervened in one case some years ago and regulated the issue for someone who had all their proof to show the amount of years that they worked. Elshot said when the corrections were made the bill for the years prior to the pension fund becoming mandatory was sent to the Government of St. Maarten. Negligence in government cost them already and it will continue to cost them if their workers do not do what is right for workers. "I went to Curacao myself and when I produced the person's file APNA representatives corrected the matter immediately because they saw the injustice that was being done to the worker who gave more than 30 years of service. I can remember the WITU and WICSU wanted to take a class suit against the Government of St. Maarten but former commissioner of personnel affairs Roy Marlin dealt with the matter and signed an agreement with APNA. This agreement was signed after the pension fund became compulsory on St. Maarten." Elshot said the pension fund became mandatory on January 1st, 1998. Elshot said persons who were working prior to 1998 and were not registered in the pension was given an opportunity to buy back their years. However, this affected several persons because the cost of buying back was too costly. She said during the period the pension fund became mandatory they agreed that two thirds of the buying back would have to be paid by the worker while the employer had to pay one third, this arrangement was to encourage the workers to buy back their years so that they could benefit from all the years of service they have given. Elshot further explained that even though these measures were put in place there were people who simply could not afford to buy back their years of service therefore they had to turn to the allowances. Elshot said that it was never intended for workers to be penalized because they refused or could not buy back their years of service. There are instances where the workers were not notified, they were not given information and there other instances that people found out about the buy-back option too late. "I want to make clear that there are laws on the books to protect the workers, however, these persons will receive much lower than if they had bought back their years into the pension fund." Workers who bought back their years will get 70% of their last salary but those persons need to have at least 35 years of service to benefit fully from the pension fund. Elshot made clear that the union will not subscribe to any sort of injustice to workers, she said one person who gave 40 years and two months of service to St. Maarten request for pension was denied.

The WITU leader appealed to pensioners who believe that they are being shortchanged to contact the union or APS so that they can regulate their paperwork in order to receive what is due to them." Elshot said just recently she got a case where someone's request was turned down and that should not have happened. She said the WITU is busy investigating to see the basis on which the person was denied pension.

Philipsburg:--- The President of the Windward Islands Chamber of Labour Unions Theophilus Thompson is calling on government to conduct the necessary supermarket inspections. Thompson showed members of the media on Tuesday at WICLU's weekly press briefing two bottles of dish liquid. The price on the bottles showed that the smaller bottle is more expensive than the larger bottle.

Thompson said the union has been trying to apply the ILO agreement where they agreed to fight against poverty. He said it has been weeks now they have been raising several issues but this week he wants to show media workers and consumers that while it is government's obligation based on treaties and conventions to reduce the level of poverty, cost of living on St. Maarten has become unsupportable since cost of living has outgrown income by a wide margin. Thompson said that they indicated to government that there should be an increase in minimum wage but that should be done in consultation with the businesses and consumers (workers organization).

The two bottles of dish liquid which is a necessity were made by the same manufacturer. However, the smaller bottle costs Naf. 3.96 (10 fluid ounces) while the larger bottle costs Naf. 3.60 (14 fluid ounces). Thompson said he is speaking as a consumer because has compared the quantity against the back drop of the pricing. He said consumers are now asking themselves why they have to pay more for less while their income remains the same. Thompson said the experts may have lots of arguments regarding the content of the products or the composition of the products but according to him the consumers do not understand that type of rational. "Right now the spending power of the consumers is decreasing by either remaining stagnant or by having an increase in the minimum wage without proper consultation being conducted with stakeholders. The last time the minimum wage increased was in 2006. When this was done all parties were involved and the businesses on the island also made certain commitments in order to stabilize the spending power of the consumer. Thompson said in any free market society when wages are increased and controls are not being done the prices of commodities would skyrocket.

The unionist said they are concerned about the way government intends to increase the minimum wage without proper consultation with the stakeholders. Thompson further stressed that they cannot continue to allow poverty to evolve and there is no remedy for the growing problem.

Employment Agencies Contribute to Poverty.

Thompson said he is also of the opinion that the various Employment Agencies on the island contribute to poverty on St. Maarten. Hiring workers through employment agencies is creating more poverty within the community. Thompson said these agencies do not hire workers for a full work week and they are not being paid the right salaries, this makes workers and families more vulnerable. Thompson said based on the ILO, they are attacking all areas that have been strengthening poverty and the employment agencies operating on St. Maarten are a major contributing factor to the poverty level. The WICLU President said he is yet to fully understand how the government of St. Maarten allows these employment agencies to practice on the island.

Thompson said just recently an employee from a supermarket contacted him for advice, the worker he said has been working for four years at the same supermarket and he was shifted from one employment agency to another. Because of this, the worker told him he is not able to obtain a loan or anything because he does not have stable job. "Here it is you have someone working for four years at the same place and he cannot move forward with his life."

I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate the people of our country, the Supervisory Board of the Princess Juliana International Airport Operating Company Supervisory and Holding Boards, as well as the Management under the leadership of Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Regina Labega for the successful conclusion of a over US$130 million bond for the gateway into the country.

I can recall during the process to appoint Ms. Labega to the CEO position of our airport, in one of the advices it was stated that Ms. Labega was weak in the financial area, but her negotiation skills in getting a lower interests bond for this company demonstrates that she has what it takes to run this company.

This is a significant development once again for our country, and I am proud to have been part of the process under the United People's (UP) led Government.

Investors have so much confidence in our country and in particular the airport, that the bonds were over-subscribed almost immediately.

Employees of the Princess Juliana International Airport are also to be congratulated along with all others who render services to our visitors, such as Immigration officers, Customs and Police. Everybody has a role to play, and they do that to the best of their ability on a daily basis. The vendors must also be commended for their contribution as well.

The board of the airport played a very important role by carrying out the necessary due diligence.

The loan will mean that the investments that are necessary to keep our country at the forefront will be made, but at the same time, maintaining the highest safety and professional service standards at our gateway to the country will continue as well.

Another significant development was when Moody's Investors Rating Agency classified the airport as Baa2. It was also the UP led Government that initiated the Moody's rating for the country.

Congratulations to all the aforementioned, and keep up the great work that you are doing for the country and our visitors.

Theo Heyliger
Leader of the United People's (UP) Party

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- The Secretaries-General of the various Ministries and of the Council of Ministers was presented with their copy of the Governing Program on Tuesday.

The official launch of the Governing Program will take place tomorrow, Wednesday January 16 at the Sonesta Great Bay Beach Hotel in the presence of approximately 100 invited stakeholders from the community.

The program will be used as guideline in the advisory role to the Council and their relevant Minister by the Secretary Generals.

Pointe Blanche:--- The Tzu Chi Foundation continued its annual tradition of kindness and goodwill by giving New Year's gifts and sharing joy to 185 inmates from the Pointe Blanche Prison and the Simpson Bay detention facility.

The 85 guards at both facilities were also given gifts.

The Foundation, a Buddhist compassion relief organization, donated the gift bags containing essential items that prisoners can use such as a Jingsi book, toothbrush, soap, juice, water, biscuit and a pair of slippers. The combined total value of the items is US $2,668.41.

The Buddhist compassion relief organization is built on the principle of sharing joy, love and kindness to others, hence its annual effort to put smiles on the faces of others each year.

In addition to delivering the New Year's gifts, the foundation's ten volunteers, who went on the visit, also held a programme for the inmates. Upon arrival at both facilities, the volunteers sang, introduced themselves and with the help of two special volunteers from Canada (the sister and brother-in-law of Tzu Chi Commissioner Sandra Cheung: Wanda and Hai), held stretching, exercise and Kung fu sessions with the inmates.

They also did a sign language session and engaged the inmates in a quiz session in which prisoners who had the correct answers won prizes. Inmates were shown a video from Tzu Chi founder Master Cheng Yen, which explained the principles of the Tzu Chi movement as well as focused on issues such as personality development, prayer and other subjects.

Among the messages left with the inmates were the importance of love, care, forgiveness, taking care of oneself and sharing of one's wisdom with others as is taught by Master Cheng Yen. "The moment we rest, our eyes close and our minds start dreaming. We have many problems today because people think more than giving action. In Tzu Chi we learn to take action, Master Chen Yen teaches us to just do it," inmates were told during the visit.

In an effort to teach youngsters the principles of goodwill from young, the Foundation enlisted the assistance of youngsters, ages two to five, from All Children's Education Foundation (ACE) to help pack the gift bags. The young children were excited to help pack the gift bags, while learning the positive principles.

The Foundation thanked Unit Head of the Corrections Penitentiary Institutions Ruthmila Gumbs-Milton and all others from the institutions for accommodating the volunteers each year. They also expressed thanks to the inmates from being open and accommodating during the visit and for participating in the fun activities.

Simpson Bay:--- Princess Juliana International Airport in St. Maarten is about to unveil a comprehensive rebranding as one of the major aviation facilities in the Caribbean and, as part of the rebranding process, a new airport website has been created.

The new website architecture was guided by the same principals of the airport itself and, along with the rebranding project, was executed by Tambourine, a global destination and hospitality branding and marketing firm.

"The idea was to create a clean simple and frictionless user experience," said Rafael Cardozo, president of Tambourine.

The website focuses on delivering vital up-to-the-minute arrival and departure information with a real-time data feed.

The site has been designed to serve passengers and guests both arriving and departing St. Maarten as well as those in the planning stage of their trip to the destination. The website communicates all of the facilities and core services and also features the vast array of retail food and shopping outlets.

The new website fully integrates social media with the airport's Facebook page and Twitter feeds that are featured in the "On the Radar" section of the home page.

The website's "Spectacular Landing" section highlights user generated YouTube videos of the airport's world famous beachside landings.

A soft launch of the site took place during the airport Capital Improvement Project's signing ceremony on January10, 2013 and the final launch will take place at the official rebranding event in February.

The new brand launch is scheduled for February 2013 and the new site will be live at the URL www.SXMAirport.com.

"We are proud to have brought together the best practices of the leading airport websites worldwide and to have executed a timeless user friendly experience for Princess Juliana International Airport," said Cardozo.

For more information, please contact Suzy Kartokromo, Senior Business Development Officer – Marketing & Communications, PJIAE, at P.O. Box 2027, St. Maarten; telephone 1-721-546-7544; e-mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Philipsburg:--- Postal Services St. Maarten NV is busy producing and will be introducing a number of scenic stamps of the island this year, and with the scenic theme will be in Dutch to cater to the huge dutch stamp collector market. Due to delay in production, both the 2012 and 2013 scenic sets will be featured and offered in 2013. The scenic set of stamps for the two years combined will feature eight (8) different scenes of the island. Snapshots were taken from different locations on the island and artist impressios made. As with the hero stamps edition, PSS is hoping with these stamps to further promote and share the beauty of our island to all corners of the world and get both young and old interested in stamp collection. The scenic stamps are in production and will be available within short at our post office to compliment the existing series of stamps.

PSS would like to remind the general public of the themes for the year 2013, which will feature: Churches, Birds, Heroes, SXM Scenes, Butterflies, Boy Scouts, 200th Anniversary of the Dutch Kingdom, Classic Boats, Light houses, Chess and Classic Paintings.

PSS is urging all stamp collectors, local and abroad, children and adults to come by and view what all stamps PSS has available for purchase and be the first to purchase and collect these one of a kind of stamps.

Mr. Richardson and the postal service family (PSS) looks forward to the feedback and comments from the public, and remains open to possible new themes and designs to further to promote what our beautiful island has to offer. Stamps are true ambassadors to a country, and through creativeness PSS hopes to keep its stamps around for a very long time.

For more information please contact your local post office at Tel. 542-2289 or 545 3782 or by e-mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

PSS Press Release

PHILIPSBURG:--- Parliamentarians will be meeting for the first time in the New Year on January 15 with representatives from the University of the Southern Caribbean (USC).

The Central Committee session is scheduled for Tuesday afternoon at 4:00pm in the General Assembly Chamber of the House of Parliament at Wilhelmina Straat #1 in Philipsburg.

The agenda point for the meeting is a presentation by USC, Trinidad. USC is a private, co-educational institution with a diverse student body.

It is operated by the Caribbean Union Conference of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, and is housed on three hundred and eighty-four acres of land.

Graduates of the university serve the church and society, not only in the Caribbean, but also in many parts of the world. The University's name is honoured as many of its graduates have earned advanced degrees in internationally recognized and renowned institutions.

Members of the public are always welcome to be present in the General Assembly Chamber during public meetings to follow the parliamentary session scheduled for that particular day.

The House of Parliament is located across from the Court House.

The parliamentary session will be carried live on St. Maarten Cable TV Channel 120, via Pearl Radio FM 98.1, the audio via the Internet www.pearlfmradio.com, and also via www.sxmparliament.org.

Marigot:--- The Gendarmes started a road safety awareness operation especially around schools. The operation which began on January 7th will end on February 18th, 2013. A press release from the Gendarmerie states that the Commandant of the Gendarmerie of Guadeloupe instigated the operation due to the amount of young people that have lost their lives while there are a number of people who are permanently injured because they did not practice the use of road safety equipments properly. The controllers will place special focus on the use of seat belts, helmets, and the use of car seats for minors.

The operation will be structured in two phases, one being prevention and awareness which will last until January 18th, 2013. The second part of the operation will then become repression which will commence on January 21st.

In the year 2012, the Gendarmes reported that among the five people that lost their lives on the road on the French side of the island, three of them were drivers of two wheel vehicles (motorbikes). Based on statistics from 2010 to 2012, eleven drivers and passengers of two wheel vehicles have lost their lives on public roads, while 52 people using the same type of transportation were injured some of whom have suffered lifelong injuries. Due to the high figures it became clear to the Gendarmerie that they needed to place focus on the importance of road safety equipments, focus will be placed especially on motorcycle users. The current action also aims to provide parents with important knowledge on how to seat their children at the back of a motorcycle.

Philipsburg:--- On January 22nd, 2013 the three suspects in the so called Cupecoy case concerning the violent deaths of Michael and Thelma King will have to appear in court for a so called procedural court session. The case itself will not be dealt with during this session.

During the hearing both defense and prosecutor will be allowed to ask the judge for additional investigations on their behalf.

The prosecutor's office has asked for psychiatric and psychological reports on each suspect but these will not be completed on January 22nd.

Most likely the case will be postponed until March or later, depending on how many requests for additional investigation will be granted. The judge will decide on that.

On Thursday, January 17th at 11 AM, the first suspect in the case, M.J, will have to appear in court for the first time. There the case will be postponed until January 22nd 2013 when the above mentioned procedural court session will be held.

Press Release from Public Prosecutor's Office

Philipsburg:--- The Korps Politie St. Maarten (KPSM) has reasons to be proud of their overall performance for the year 2012 despite the challenges they faced. Chief Commissioner of Police Peter de Witte told SMN News in an exclusive interview on Monday that the police have seen a 25% decrease in capital offenses such as murders. De Witte said 2012 was indeed a very busy year for the police while it sucked their manpower and other resources. During 2012 KPSM also implemented the Community Policing which the top cop believes helped in deterring crimes in several communities.

KPSM solved five of the ten murders committed in 2010, thirteen of the eighteen murders committed in 2011 and 12 of the fourteen murders that were committed in 2012. In addition there was a significant decrease from 2010 in other crimes such as burglaries, robberies, car thefts, and mistreatment. De Witte told SMN News that KPSM has 41 detectives working in the Detective Department and there are times when they have to seek outside help. De Witte further explained that even though KPSM needs more manpower and officers with experience and knowledge he still managed to give five of his detectives to the Landsrecherche which he considers a great loss for KPSM. When asked why give he gave away his best investigators to another institution, De Witte said that institution is very important for any country in the Kingdom. "In a constitutional state we cannot do without an institution that guards the integrity of civil servants."

One of the murder cases that the police solved by themselves and are very proud of their performance is the Cupecoy murders (Micheal and Thelma King). De Witte said had the police not solved that case it would have been to the detriment to St. Maarten's tourism economy. The police managed to capture the three persons involved in the gruesome murder of the American citizens, all of whom have confessed their involvement to police. However, that case still has to go before the courts.

The top cop who began leading KPSM since June 2010 said he is still optimistic with the ongoing murder investigations because the detectives working on the cases are extremely dedicated and serious in bringing those responsible for the heinous murders to justice.

Preliminary figures show that in 2010 there were 253 cases of car thefts registered, 215 in the year 2011, and 183 in 2012.

As for violence with a weapon and threatening 82 cases were registered in 2010, 71 in 2011, and 58 in 2012. A striking decrease in the year 2012 was in burglaries. In the year 2010 there were 667 cases of burglaries registered, 519 in 2011, and 363 in 2012.

De Witte said there are several reasons for the decrease but the main reason for it is because the police arrested several persons who were involved in these crimes.

De Witte explained that while there were major decreases in certain areas of crime there has been an increase in other areas of crime. He said threatening a person or persons increased. In 2010 the police dealt with 124 cases of threatening, 187 in 2011, and 219 in 2012. There is also an increase in physical abuse since 2010 to 2012. In 2010, the police dealt with 171 cases involving physical abuse, 148 in 2011, and 210 in 2012.

A significant blow in the year 2012 for KPSM is the increase in sexual offenses some of which involved children. These offenses police have to deal with them delicately because many of them occurred in the family homes while some of the victims are children. KPSM sought outside help to investigate these cases because St. Maarten lacked persons that are specialized in investigating such cases. In 2010, KPSM investigated eight cases of sexual abuse, eight in 2011 while they investigated 13 sexual abuse cases in 2012. Some of these cases De Witte said were solved because the culprits were known to the victims.

De Witte said the police started its operations in 2010 (10/10/10) below zero, there was no manpower, no institutions locally yet the men in blue worked with dedication to solve some of the most gruesome cases that occurred on St. Maarten while he is sitting in the main seat. He said in several cases the police sought help from external institutions and their judicial partners. Help was provided by the RST, Marechaussee, Aruba, and Curacao Police Force to solve some cases such as the Vesuvius Investigation.

While the investigations in capital offenses used up the police manpower some cases were neglected, De Witte explained that the "Burglary Team" that was installed in 2011 managed to capture a suspect that committed 15 burglaries in the St. Peters area. "Because of this team the police managed to solve a lot more of house burglaries because they managed to arrest more suspects that were committing these crimes. Several of the culprits were convicted while some of the suspects were deported from St. Maarten." De Witte said KPSM has placed lots of focus on educating its officers so that they can perform optimally.

Chief Commissioner of Police Peter de Witte explained that one of the murder investigations in 2010 led the police to a group that was actively involved in car thefts and burglaries. This group was brought to justice and they are now behind bars. De Witte said the Vesuvius Investigation delayed the investigating of several other cases such as burglaries and robberies but that changed in 2012 when the suspect that was terrorizing residents of St. Peters was captured.

Reacting to the statements made by Chief Prosecutor Hans Mos in his 2011 annual report, De Witte said his management team did not see the report that was put together by Mos and sent to the Minister of Justice, Attorney General, and the media but when he learnt of it he immediately took action by discussing the matter with Mos. He said the island's Chief Prosecutor has agreed to ensure that the Police (KPSM) sees these reports and also given an opportunity to submit their reactions prior to it being finalized and dispatched. "As a partner we need to see these reports just the same way we work on our year plan together. We are supposed to be a team. I spoke to Chief Prosecutor Hans Mos and he agreed to do things differently in the future." When asked if there is any agreement in writing with Mos, De Witte said he did does not think there is need for a written agreement because he trusts the Chief Prosecutor.

Election Fraud Investigated but now Stalled.

While the top cop admitted that he gave away five of his best detectives to the Landsrecherche in order to guard the integrity of Civil Servants, this department is yet to continue the investigation of the Election Fraud that KPSM started and handed over to them. When asked how satisfied he is with the status of that case, De Witte said he is not satisfied with how this case has been handled. However, he made clear that it is the Prosecutor's Office that has to decide on which cases they will prosecute. "That case is no longer on my desk, we at KPSM did what we had to do and now it's the Prosecutor's Office that has to set its priorities. My hope is one day this case will be further investigated and prosecution will take place. For me the most important thing is that this case be investigated." When SMN News asked De Witte if he felt that there is political influence regarding the Election Fraud case, De Witte said when KPSM investigated the case there was no political influence from any side and he does not think anyone influenced the investigation, however, he still does not know what caused the delay.

As for the BAVPOLERS, De Witte said that he already delivered an advice to the Minister of Justice to ensure that the BAVPOLERS working with the police gets further training. He said he asked that these officers who got only four months training be given one year training locally before they are evaluated. Police Officers within the Kingdom have to attend the police school 18 months before they can join the police academy to further their education for another 18 months before they become fully fledged police officers. De Witte said he is happy with the BAVPOLERS that are working with the Police and they will follow the BPO training on St. Maarten.

RST verses the KPSM.

Currently there are political discussions taking place about the functioning of the RST. So far the budget for the RST has not yet been approved by the various countries. The Minister of Justice Roland Duncan and De Witte are expected to travel sometime this week where the discussion on the RST will continue. When SMN News asked De Witte for his opinion about the RST who works as a separate entity from the police, De Witte said he is in favor with the current discussion. He said the RST and the Police work closely together and they do cooperate but he believes that there is one police force in every country and one police chief. However, De Witte was reserved on what it's costing the Kingdom partners to maintain the RST in a separate entity. De Witte said that he is glad that the political discussion is now taking place and he will wait on the outcome of these discussions.
De Witte concluded the interview by saying that when he looked back at what St. Maarten had in 2010 to what they have now and how much cases they managed to solve he is extremely happy with the performance of the police. "Yes we do have quite a lot more to do to develop the Police Department in the next two or three years. In 2010 when the Netherlands Antilles dismantled Curacao kept everything and St. Maarten had to start from scratch. I demanded a lot from my officers even though they did not have the tools to do their job, but these officers worked with their heart and soul for the safety of St. Maarten."

De Witte also commented on how much St. Maarten suffered when Curacao decided to cut St. Maarten out from the BMS system. De Witte said the police are severely affected but the decision was political. He stated that he is quite disappointed with the outcome because cutting out St. Maarten has not helped the island because they have no access to their internal figures.

Philipsburg (DCOMM):--- At the mini conference that the Department of Economic Affairs, Transportation & Telecommunication (EVT) is having, the first annual Mini Caribbean Macro Economic Model Conference, external and internal stakeholders were given a presentation about the SMAART model and its constituent parts.

The SMAART model is a macroeconomic, excel based data-analysis tool that presents a comprehensive view of the St. Maarten economy, with the main tasks of analyzing, monitoring, and forecasting, including impact analysis.

The model is dependent on historical data and input from the internal and external stakeholders.

On the 3rd day of the conference, Lucy Richardson, Head of Department of Economy, Transportation & Telecommunication (EVT), welcomed the attendees gathered at Divi Little Bay Hotel, numbering about 40 persons, and provided an introduction and historical account of how the current economic model came to being, which had to be built from the ground up and personalized to the St. Maarten situation.

The aim as well is to fine-tune the Smaart model over time with better and more accurate data from the internal and external stakeholders. When this happens, we can predict with more certainty, Richardson said.

Present at the mini conference were members of the Ministries of Finance, Public Health, Social Development and Labor, the Departments of Statistics, Tourism, Receivers, along with external stakeholders and representatives of the Central Bank of Curacao and St. Maarten, St. Maarten Harbor Group of Companies, St. Maarten Hospitality & Trade Association, Chamber of Commerce & Industry, among others.

According to Richardson, it is the intention to train qualified personnel from other departments within Government to understand how the model works, and can assist them in their tasks. Several persons within the department of EVT are being trained in the mode to ensure continuality.

The attending audience received a demonstration by Erika Radjouki, Senior Policy Advisor, EVT, and Jude Houston, Statistician, EVT, on how the Smaart model works, and the stakeholders provided feedback to the presenters and designers (Modelers) of the model.

Several scenarios were demonstrated, after which the audience asked questions in relation to the accuracy of the model, the calibration of the model, adjustments, correlations, impact analyses, among other issues. One such demonstration showed that the model already predicted the 1.7 million cruise passenger arrival as early as August 2012.

It was made clear by the Secretary General, a.i., of the Ministry of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transport & Telecommunication (TEZVT), Miguel de Weever, that the model dealt with predictions based on historical information. (It is not, and cannot be, a model that predicts with exactness, for the future is unpredictable by nature.) In addition, there are other external factors that affect the model—factors beyond the control of man, i.e., hurricane, world recession, etc. Therefore, expertise knowledge to interpret the results will also be required.

On behalf of my colleague the Honorable Minister of Education, Culture, Youth and Sports Affairs who could not be here this evening, asked me to convey the following message to you:

Brothers and Sisters I am blessed to have had a mother who loved her children more than herself and that for me will never change. That is called unconditional love. The Bible speaks of Agape love that has given me the courage to face the challenges of life.

Although not being here with you in the flesh to pray for our nation I am and always will be there in the spirit. I want to encourage and thank:

The National Day of Prayer Committee

Chairman: Pastor Esmond Flemming

Apostle Elmead Allen

Bro. Walley Havertong

Apostle Leyland Sam

Honorary Members

Pastor Wycliff Smith

Pastor Royston Philbert

Prophet Edwin Arrindell

Step out In Faith Consultancy N.V. for the Printing of the Booklet and Decorations

Sound 2000 for the Sound/Stage & Light

Dedicated Brothers Entertainment Services N.V. for the Tents and Chairs

Fire Department

Government Facility Services

The Department of Culture, Youth and Sport Affairs

Media

Government of St. Maarten

All in attendance

For praying for our blessed Nation, because there is power in prayer. I would like to leave you with two passages from scripture that are very dare to me especially in Understanding The Times and Knowing What To Do!

1. Psalm 107:28-30 reads: Then they cried to the LORD in their trouble, and he delivered them from their distress. He made the storm be still, and the waves of the sea were hushed. Then they were glad that the waters were quiet, and he brought them to their desired haven
2. Philippians 4:6-7 reads do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Have a Blessed Evening,
Honorable Silveria Jacobs Minister of Education, Culture, Youth and Sports Affairs

GREAT BAY:--- The 26th annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Lecture will be delivered here at Philipsburg Jubilee Library, on Tuesday, January 15, 2013, at 7:30 PM.

"St. Martin Culture from an American Perspective" is the title of this year's address by Dr. Eugene Grabowski, MD, FACS, said Shujah Reiph, president of Conscious Lyrics (CLF), the organizing foundation.

US tourists have been coming to St. Martin in a steady way for over 55 years but what do Americans really think about St. Martin people and their culture? "Dr. Grabowski's talk will be based on his graduate studies at the State University of New York in Albany. This will be a very different angle from what we're accustomed to in our contacts with US visitors," said Reiph.

The lecture will be in English and Dr. Grabowski will take the opportunity to include some French references, especially because it his master's degree in French that he is pursuing at SUNY Albany, said Reiph.

"The interest in the people and culture of the whole island developed when his French language study led Dr. Grabowski to the North of St. Martin as a territory where French was spoken as the official language, while English, Dutch, Papiamento and other languages were common to the population of the whole island," said Reiph.

"We try to bring unique perspectives to our annual programs that will relate to St. Martin and challenge our audiences. This is the case whether we're observing a St. Martin hero or heroine as we often do, or an internationally-recognized personage like Dr. King," said Reiph.

Dr. Grabowski will also be challenging himself with the lecture topic, which will be followed with a question and answer (Q&A) session involving the audience.

The practicing general and trauma surgeon from Vermont appears well accustomed to challenges. In addition to his scientific papers published in medical journals such as American Surgeon, he has climbed at least four major mountains, including Kilimanjaro and McKinley. The former governor of the Vermont Chapter American College of Surgeons, current consultant to Boston's Kiwanis Ped. Trauma Institute, and Lions Club member, is also a rookie NASCAR driver.

CLF's annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Lecture is rotated between both capitals of St. Martin. Tuesday's program, which will include poetry reading, is organized in collaboration with House of Nehesi Publishers (HNP).

I have sent a letter to the President of Parliament Hon. Rodolphe Samuel with respect to pending draft laws that had reached a certain part of the process during my tenure as President of Parliament. Since the change in Parliament, more than seven months ago, we have not heard anything. The following letter was sent on January 11, 2013.

"On June 14, 2012, a Central Committee meeting of parliament was held with the Minister of Justice the Hon. Roland Duncan to discuss 11 draft laws pertinent to the new Civil Code.

During that meeting it was decided that prior to going over to a final handling of these draft laws in a subsequent Central Committee meeting, to be followed by a public meeting of Parliament. The reports of these hearings would be submitted to Parliament as well as to the Minister of Justice.

These reports can contain proposal(s) which may lead to possible amendment(s) to some or all of the draft laws by the Minister or Parliament.

The reports must contain a summary of the hearings, including the general opinion of Parliament as expressed during these hearings reference to these as discussed, in order for the Minister of Justice to be able to make the necessary amendments.

To date Parliament has not received any such report or reports pertaining to these hearings.

To be clear, the Central Committee meeting of June 14, 2012 has been adjourned.

I herewith express my concern regarding the delay in receiving these reports. This delay means that the final handling of the aforementioned draft laws is also on hold, with all consequences to our society thereof.

Please inform Parliament soonest the reason for the delay and when we can expect these reports. Please inform Parliament if the Minister of Justice received these reports.

I would appreciate also an update regarding all pending laws to be handled by Parliament."

Hon. Gracita Arrindell
Member of Parliament United People's (UP) Party Parliamentary Faction

The St. Maarten Hospitality & Trade Association, on Tuesday last week handed over check for sponsorship of the 33rd Heineken Regatta as part of its continued destination development and marketing program. The SHTA’s continued commitment as a sponsor of the St. Maarten Heineken Regatta demonstrates its focus on the development of a cross section of visitor arrivals to the destination, creating diversity and sustainability of our tourism product. The Heineken Regatta which will be held from February 28 to March 3rd this year is expected to bring some 2000 sailors to our shores and countless spectators. It is the largest Regatta in the Caribbean and annual event St. Maarten should be proud of.

The check was delivered to St. Maarten Yacht Club Regatta Foundation (SMYCRF) by Loraine Talmi who is the Marine Division Director on the SHTA’s Board of Directors. The Marine Division is one of several divisions presently represented under the SHTA’s Umbrella Structure, which allows the organization to give direct representation to a broad base of trade and hospitality businesses on St. Maarten.

Philipsburg:--- The Council of Ministers met with the Dutch delegation of the First Chamber of Parliament on Friday, January 11. Main points of discussion were the experiences of St. Maarten as a Country as well as the relationship with Saba and St. Eustatius, which due to the constitutional changes since 101010 has changed. In additional, several points of concerns that were raised during the 'meet and greet' with residents and representatives of organizations of St. Maarten were brought forward. The challenges that St. Maarten faces as a young country in setting up the required democratic institutions, in establishing membership of various international organizations to strengthen national and international relationships as well as on the financial level were topics of discussion. Both parties agreed that direct talks on a political level should continue.

Resurfacing of runway, additional aircraft parking, and relocation of fuel farm among priorities.

SIMPSON BAY:--- It was all smiles at the ceremonial closing of the US$132 million Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM) bond issue underwritten by Nomura Securities International Inc.

The closing was attended by a high-powered St. Maarten delegation led by Minister Romeo Pantophlet of Tourism and Economic Affairs, whose portfolios include the airport; and Finance Minister Roland Tuitt.

Speaking at the ceremony held at the offices of Nomura Securities International in New York on Thursday, January 10, 2013, both ministers thanked the team that made this historic bond issuance possible.

Minister Tuitt said the bond issue was good for St. Maarten, adding that it was precisely this that led him to finalize the official Moody's rating for the island. For his part, Minister Pantophlet said it would further facilitate the hub function of the island.

Acknowledging that the process was long and sometimes complicated, Patrick Quinn, managing director of Nomura Securities International Inc., said that Moody's rating had paved the way for the bond to be issued. He added that the fact that these bonds had not traded since they were offered reflects the purchaser's confidence in PJIA (SXM Airport). Quinn said Nomura was happy to underwrite the bonds for PJIA, one of the leading airports in the Caribbean.

Nomura is a Tokyo-based financial services group and global investment bank with regional headquarters in Hong Kong, London, and New York.

Nomura has operations in 18 exchanges all over the world and has held the number one position on the London Stock Exchange since 2007.

According to the Financial Times, in 2008, Nomura became the world's largest independent investment bank with Y20,300bn (£138bn) assets under management when it acquired Lehman Brothers business in the Asia-Pacific region and subsequently of its investment and equities portfolios in Europe and the Middle East.

Chairman of the Supervisory Board of Directors of PJIAE, Clarence Derby, speaking on behalf of the SXM Airport board said he was happy for the closing and thanked the St. Maarten government and in particular, the two ministers for their support from the very beginning. Also in attendance at the ceremony was the Chairman of the Princess Juliana International Airport Holding Company, Dexter Doncher.

The issuance of the bonds – and the fact that it was over-subscribed almost immediately – is without doubt a vote of confidence in the direction the Princess Juliana International Airport has chosen, and a resounding thumbs up for the stability of the economy of St. Maarten and for its leadership, which is very well represented here today, said Regina LaBega, PJIAE's Managing Director.

Not only is the Princess Juliana International Airport the first and so far the only company in St. Maarten to have rated bonds, and this huge amount of money was secured at very favorable terms of a fixed rate of 5.5% over 15 years. This is a significant decrease from the 8.25% interest rate obtained in the 2004 financing of US$118 million and a net savings of some US$10 million for the airport.

"There can be no better way to begin the New Year – and kick off the 70th anniversary celebrations of our Princess Juliana International Airport – than with the official closing of this bond issue that would permit the airport to diligently pursue its multi-million dollar Capital Improvement Program," LaBega said.

"We are starting a new era in the development of our airport, and consequently, the continued sustainability of St. Maarten's economic growth," she said in her address. "Every improvement we make at SXM Airport also means huge benefits for the economies of the surrounding islands of Anguilla, St. Barths, Saba, and St. Eustatius."

LaBega continued: "To take SXM Airport to new heights, the Capital Improvement Program which these bonds will finance include: resurfacing of the Airport runway; construction of taxi-ways in order to increase runway efficiency; expanding the aprons to provide additional aircraft parking during peak traffic periods; and relocating various facilities to improve the efficiency of the airport facilities and to provide for future growth."

Work on the rehabilitation of the runway is expected to commence in February 2013 and completed by August 2013. All work will take place overnight starting at 10 p.m. after the last flight operation of the day and end at 6 a.m. before the first flight of the day. No flight interruptions are expected.

Philipsburg:--- To be able to revamp their youth and fiction (novels) department, the Philipsburg Jubilee Library received a grant of Naf 150,000.00 from funding agency Cooperating Foundations of the Dutch Caribbean. The library will use the funds to install better signs and new shelves to make it easier and more attractive for kids and youths to select their desired books. They will further enhance the meeting function of the library by creating more sitting areas with comfortable chairs and beanbags. The library is looking for additional funding to refurbish the rest of the library.

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- The country's emergency services sprang into action after receiving a call on January 11 at 12.37 AM of a house on fire in the district of Dutch Quarter.

While the fire trucks were in route, the officers were informed that neighbors had contained the fire and nobody was at home.

Fire trucks were on the scene within eight minutes after receiving the call. Upon arrival, they saw the flames were out, but that smoke was still coming out of the house.

Fire fighters carried out a survey of the house and discovered a person lying on the floor in a backroom. Fire personnel got the person outside where he was attended too by ambulance emergency medical service attendants. The elderly man had suffered from smoke inhalation.

After the patient was secured, he was immediately transported to the St. Maarten Medical Center for further treatment.

The Fire Department would like to thank the neighbors for their quick action, the Police and Emergency Medical Services, and fire personnel for their services rendered which resulted in the fire victim being rescued from the burnt home.

Fire personnel carried out an investigation into the cause of the fire, and it was determined that it was an electrical entertainment system.

The house received a considerable amount of damage where one room was completely burnt out. The rest of the interior of the home had major heat and smoke damage.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Good evening and welcome to this new year's reception.
I am pleased to gather here in the heart of Philipsburg on the captain Hodge Warf to celebrate the start of 2013 with you. To all present and to the people of Sint Maarten, Marie-Louise and I, extend warm greetings and best wishes for the year ahead.
Indeed, a brighter future is what we all wish each other at the start of the New Year. We wish each other "Happiness, Health, and Prosperity". A quality of life wish, which is primarily directed to one another, but which also holds in it our individual and collective vision for Sint Maarten.
I am sure you will agree with me that our words of well wishes will only come to pass when pursued by us through committed individual and collective action. Actions which only we can take. That is because as a Sint Maarten people we bear the responsibility to be our community's keeper. As keepers of our community it is our highest obligation to nurture and build a free, safe, secure and just society. A society in which we all have the right and opportunity to quality care, quality education and quality employment.
Having closed off 2012 and looking ahead the question before is: How do we plan to fulfill our role as keepers of our community's vision in 2013? The answer will vary from person to person, from family to family and from organisation to organisation. There will be differences in views and approaches between and within the public and private sectors. There will be those who believe that their plans or approaches are the only way and there will be those who believe that there is no role, place or opportunity for them. There are those who will on a daily basis continue to give their all in pursuit of the vision, while there are and will be those who do not have confidence in our ability as keepers of Sint Maarten to achieve the vision.
Whatever your answer or plan I hereby remind you that we are in this together. And that we, as a result must recognize, live and act by the guiding principle that our community - Sint Maarten - is bigger than any of us, its keepers. This principle must therefore be the primary point of departure in all our actions and decisions. Let us therefore, as keepers of our community, resolve to not breakdown but to build each other and thus build our community up. And in so doing reach out to each other to work with each other and tap the full potential of our community's scarce human reserves.

Ladies and gentlemen,
To attain our vision in 2013 and beyond through the deployment of the full potential of our human reserves it is imperative that we reinforce our commitment to our care and to the care of our environment. Let us commit ourselves to confront the threats of poverty, environmental degradation and crime to secure the viability of our community. This commitment calls for more effective initiatives by us as public and or private keepers of our community. It is a call:

1. to eliminate poverty;
2. to better shield and educate our children and youth as we prepare them for adulthood;
3. to broaden and deepen the reach of health care;
4. to protect and preserve our natural environment; and
5. to unite in stamping out crime and corruption.

In view of this I call on and challenge each of you to take up and give deeper content to your role as keepers of our community by expanding existing and implementing new programs to address mentioned threats and thus foster a happier, healthier and more prosperous Sint Maarten. As I make this call and you contemplate your responses allow me to give you some food for thought:

• Imagine a Sint Maarten where more schools are adopted;
• Imagine a Sint Maarten where more people need not worry about affording preventive care;
• Imagine a Sint Maarten where our natural environment is cherished; and
• Imagine a Sint Maarten where private-public partnerships converts deprived districts in safe and thriving social centers.

Such actions and contributions are critical, because in so doing you - in your role as keepers of our community - can make a real difference in guaranteeing a free, safe, secure and just Sint Maarten society.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

In closing, as we begin this New Year, let us thank God for watching over our country. At the same time let us as individuals, corporations and government renew our commitment to be the keeper of our community aimed at building a society based on sound governance principles in which we all have the right and opportunity to quality care, quality education and quality employment. We owe this to our community and ourselves. And as Governor I shall continue to work with government and other stakeholders to promote the achievement of this vision in service of the people of St. Maarten.

With that commitment, I hereby on behalf of Marie-Louise and myself, wish you and your family a year of health, happiness and growth.

Thank you, God bless you, and God bless Sint Maarten.

The Governor of Sint Maarten
Eugene B. Holiday

PHILIPSBURG:--- Approximately 80 to 100 persons showed up for the Meet and Greet with Members of the Dutch First Chamber of Parliament on Thursday evening at the Cultural Center on Backstreet. Several members of the Sint Maarten Parliament were also present.

PHILIPSBURG:--- President of Parliament Hon. Drs. Rodolphe Samuel on Thursday morning in the House of Parliament received a copy of the Government's Program presented by the Prime Minister Hon. Sarah Wescot-Williams.

Also present for the presentation was Parliament's Secretary General Jossy Semeleer. President Samuel thanked the Prime Minister and said every Member of Parliament would receive a digital copy of the Governing Program.

The St. Maarten Nature Foundation carried out a series of tests of the stream which runs through the Emilio Wilson Estate. This was conducted for various reasons, the main one being the detection of the levels of pollutants of one of the most continuously running streams on the island. Although St. Maarten knows no actual rivers or streams in the true sense of the word, the stream which flows through the Emilio Wilson Estate is considered spring fed and runs more or less continuously throughout the year. The location where the Emilio Wilson Park lies is surrounded both by numerous freshwater springs of significant cultural, environmental and historic importance, but is also surrounded by the significant urban areas of Betty's Estate, Saunders, St. Johns, St. Peters, Mary's Fancy, Ebenezer and South Reward. All of the aforementioned districts channel some of their run-off water into the stream that runs through the park.

The Nature Foundation was approached by concerned citizens who make use of the park and complained about the 'bad smell' of the stream which runs through the estate. Some residents who let their dogs walk through the stream complained that their animals received skin infections. The Foundation carried out water quality tests over a period of three days in order to get reputable results of the water quality and the possible levels of pollutants.

Unfortunately the results show that the water quality is poor. This can be the result of various factors; contamination of the springs which feed the stream, run-off from the surrounding districts that have a high level of pollution and a single or multiple point source or sources of pollution upstream.

The Nature Foundation considered it also important to test the water quality of that location due to the environmental and cultural importance of the park, one that has to remain free of all environmental pollutants affecting both flora and fauna and the ecology of one of the last remaining green areas. It was also important that the quality be tested because of the fact that water which is passed through the park eventually makes it unto the bathing beaches of Great Bay, possibly resulting in contaminants on beaches were people swim.

The results that show high levels of phosphates, nitrates and bacteria are of particular concern. The Nature Foundation has communicated these findings to the authorities and sister foundations and is researching solutions which can be applied to the site in the short term in order to reduce the contaminants found in the stream.

The Nature Foundation will continue to test the quality of the water for the next coming weeks and will send out frequent alerts as to the quality of the water.

Philipsburg:--- On Friday January 11th members of the First Chamber in the Netherlands and the President of Parliament, Honorable Rudolph Samuel along with other members of Parliament Roy Marlin and Ruth Douglas paid a visit to the Police Headquarters in Philipsburg. The members of the First Chambers and members of Parliament were met by Police Chief Peter de Witte, Acting Chief of Police Carl John, and other members of the Police Management Team and advisers to the organization. During this visit Mr. de Witte gave a presentation regarding the police organization from where it started, where it is at this moment, and the direction it is heading. After the presentation, Mr. De Witte open the floor for everyone to ask questions.
The visitors were then invited to attend a demonstration at the front of the Police Station, which was done by the K-9 Unit, Bike-team, Motorcycle Brigade, and Arrest-Team. The visitors were quite impressed with the improvements and achievements by the Police Force.

On the 24th December 2012, Management and staff of PSS hosted a small celebration session at the post office for one of its staffers, Mrs. Christali Carti, who after dedicating a combined 35 years of her life to the islands Postal Administration of St. Maarten, went gracefully off into retirement. Customers at our Simpson bay branch will miss her warm and gentle service and so will the PSS family. Mrs. Carti was a dedicated and hardworking employee, and PSS found it only fitting and honored to give her, her well-deserved end of pension package from Postal Services St. Maarten N.V.

Management and staff say thank you Mrs. Christali Carti, for giving so much of your time and life to the postal administration, and it is now time for you to relax and enjoy your well deserved pension life.

Philipsburg:--- The United People's (UP) Faction in Parliament has requested two urgent Central Committee meetings of Parliament via the President.

The UP has requested that the Minister of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transport, and Telecommunications Romeo Pantophlet be called to Parliament to provide information with respect to Census 2011 that was carried out nearly two years ago.

The urgency for the request is for the Minister to provide information to Parliament regarding problems or issues leading to the delay in releasing information compiled in the Census 2011 exercise.

The UP Faction via the President of Parliament has also urgently requested the Minister of Justice Roland Duncan to come to the House of Parliament to discuss three issues:

1. The exclusion of Sint Maarten from the Border Management System;
2. Crime fighting initiatives for 2013, and receiving crime statistics for 2012;
3. Update regarding security and companies that provide security guard services in Sint Maarten.

The urgent meeting with the Minister of Justice is regarding problems or issues possibly compromising the safety and security of our country.

PHILIPSBURG:--- Parliamentarians will be meeting for the first time in the New Year on January 15.

The Central Committee session is scheduled for next Tuesday afternoon at 4:00pm in the General Assembly Chamber of the House of Parliament at Wilhelmina Straat #1 in Philipsburg.

The agenda point for the meeting is a presentation by the University of Southern Caribbean (USC), Trinidad.

Members of the public are always welcome to be present in the General Assembly Chamber during public meetings to follow the parliamentary session scheduled for that particular day.

The House of Parliament is located across from the Court House.

The parliamentary session will be carried live on St. Maarten Cable TV Channel 120, via Pearl Radio FM 98.1, the audio via the Internet www.pearlfmradio.com, and also via www.sxmparliament.org.

Philipsburg:--- Chief Prosecutor Hans Mos admitted by email to SMN News that the main suspect Meyshane Johnson who admitted to Police that he was involved in the murder of American citizens Micheal and Thelma King sometime between September 19th and September 21st 2012 was summoned late for his Pro forma hearing which was held on Thursday January 10th, 2013. Johnson is currently in pre-trial detention for the killing of the Kings and the armed robbery of the Happy Star Chinese Restaurant. On Thursday Johnson did not appear in court because the Prosecution did not summon him on time, his lawyer Attorney at Law Brenda Brooks told the court. Mos said in his written statement that the suspect was indeed summoned too late and that should not have happened. St. Maarten's Chief Prosecutor further explained that the matter was addressed Thursday night. "Nevertheless, there still was time to correct that mistake and that was done immediately after the Court session. This suspect has now been summoned to appear in Court next Thursday at 11 am. This is still within his term of pre-trail detention. This session will still be a "Pro Forma" session." Wasting the court's time and attorney's time seems to be the norm since the Prosecution still has some time on their hands and the suspect in this case did not get his ticket to freedom after murdering two innocent people.

Mos further explained that "the two other suspects are due to be summoned in court on January 22nd and that also will be a Pro forma session since the psychiatric and psychological reports will not be completed by then. On January 22nd a so called instruction session will be organized, during which the defense and this office will be allowed to ask for any further investigation from either side. After these investigations have been completed and the reports have been submitted the case itself will be dealt with, as we see it now, at least no earlier than March 2013."

In this particular case the officers of KPSM worked by themselves without any assistance from any other police organization.

SMN News reporter asked the Chief Prosecutor if he did not think the actions of his office was out of place since the police worked very hard in solving one of the most gruesome murders within days. SMN News reporter also asked Mos if he felt what took place on Thursday is fair to the relatives of the Kings who are monitoring the procedure from the United States. In response to the questions asked, Mos said "The Police and this office have been in close contact with the relatives of the Kings since the investigation started. These contacts have been appreciated both by the family on one side and police and prosecutor's office on the other. Those contacts are valuable for us too. The family was already informed about yesterday's mishap but also that this mistake was repaired directly after. The police and the prosecutor's office worked strongly together in this case as we do in any other. We are a team. The one cannot work without the other. The success in this case has been the result of a good and strong co-production. I am glad that the hard work of many in both organizations has lead to solving this case and bringing the culprits to Court."

Despite the statements Mos gave SMN News on the case of the Kings and the procedures that were messed up on Thursday by the Prosecutor's Office, SMN News received a copy of the 2011 annual report from the public relations officer of the Attorney General of Curacao, St. Maarten, and the BES islands and it was astonishing to read that the island's Chief Prosecutor in his report which is one year and days late before it was made available stated that the police of KPSM were mostly responsible for the high dismissal rate of cases. He said suspects were released because proper procedures were not followed. The dismissal rate for 2011 the Chief Prosecutor of St. Maarten stated was over 10% and some of the suspects were deported to non-treaty countries.
While SMN News has been critical of the performance of the country's Prosecutor's Office and National Police it must be made clear that the police KPSM are investigators, the buck stops with the Prosecutor's Office, they are the ones that prosecute all cases and therefore it is unimaginable that the police was blamed for the dismissal rate of 2011. It should also be noted that when SMN News contacted the management of KPSM for a reaction to the report we were told that they did not receive a copy of the report that was disseminated to the media therefore they were unable to comment.

Click here to read the annual report of 2011 which was submitted to the Attorney General of Curacao, St. Maarten, and the BES Islands.

Marigot:--- A Gendarme suffered serious injuries on Wednesday after being attacked by some youths in Sandy Ground who pelted them with rocks and other objects, a press release from the Préfecture disclosed on Wednesday night.

The Gendarme suffered a fracture, several facial injuries, including lacerations that needed 15 stitches. He was taken off duty for 12 days of medical leave.

The press release did not indicate how many Gendarmes were present when their colleague who was in a patrol vehicle was attacked, also not stated in the press statement were how many youths attacked the Gendarmes and why he was attacked.

The day before in Sandy Ground Gendarmes arrested four individuals suspected of being involved in at least 31 armed robberies since mid October 2012. It is not clear if the attack on the gendarme was in reaction to the persons being arrested. Wednesday night at least 40 Gendarmes were seen in Sandy Ground combing the area for the persons who attacked and injured their colleague. Among the Gendarmes Wednesday night was the Prefet Delegue Phillipe Chopin.

The incident prompted a visit to the Gendarmerie by Préfet Philippe Chopin and President Alain Richardson who expressed their concern for the injured Gendarme and to give support.

The Préfet condemned the incident and vowed a swift reprisal adding that the State is making fighting delinquency and insecurity a priority. He praised the dedication to duty of all Gendarmes.

Gendarmes Conduct Control in Sandy Ground Wednesday Night.

After the attack on the Gendarme on the evening of January 9, 2013 a mobile unit controlled the Sandy Ground area, the Gendarmes announced in a press release. The release states that Gendarmes of St. Martin and St. Barthelemy established the operation which was on the order of the Public Prosecutor. The aim of the special control was to search for  weapons and narcotics involved in the development. Several checkpoints were manned by a total of 50 military police, under the authority of Commandant Paul BETAILLE, in the presence of Prefet Delegue Philippe Chopin, who wanted to support the police in their efforts and mark the determination of the state and government in the fight against crime and delinquency.
The operation was launched at 8pm. It lasted a little over an hour and allowed law enforcement to thoroughly check 80 vehicles and 150 people. During the operation, two arrests were made; one for possession and transportation of an illegal 6th grade weapon (baseball bat), the second for possession of narcotics (herb). Besides baseball bat and drugs mentioned above, three scooters were immobilized by decision administrative (non-compliance, uninsured and unidentifiable) and confiscated by the police. Methodical raking of the ground by a dog team specializing in the research of drugs associated with the control also discovered 77 grams of herbal cannabis and 150 grams of seeds cannabis clearly abandoned by their holder (s) to a few tens of meters of dams.
The operation confirmed that the majority of the population of the district Sandy Ground have friendly forces and needs to be protected, while a minority of young people aged 15 to 25 years, offenders usual living through theft and trafficking, are inherently hostile to the police and feared by the sound of the fringe population who are daily victims of their actions.
The gendarmerie intends to keep the pressure on to fight against this type of crime in cooperation of constant support of judicial authorities on those terrorizing the area.
The operation was also an opportunity to explain to the residents of Sandy Ground the incided where Gendarme was attacked and severely injured in their district.
Bases on evidence gathered by the police, it seems that this aggression by stoning and throwing a variety of projectiles is related not only to the arrest of four suspects of robberies and armed robberies that morning, but also an arrest four days earlier of an individual carrying 4.754 kg of herbal cannabis. The neutralization of the dealer and the confiscation of such a quantity of drugs clearly destabilized a small network which caused him a substantial financial loss.

PHILIPSBURG:--- Members of the Dutch First Chamber of Parliament, on Friday will meet with the Parliament of Sint Maarten and visit several projects.

On Friday morning the Dutch MPs will first visit His Excellency Governor Eugene Holiday; thereafter they will visit the Philipsburg Police Headquarters accompanies by members of the Sint Maarten permanent committee of Parliament for Kingdom Affairs and Interparliamentary Relations under the chairmanship of Member of Parliament (MP) Hon. Roy Marlin.

In the afternoon the Dutch MPs will visit the Sanitary Landfill on Pond Island followed by the A.T. Illidge Road Sewage Treatment Plant and thereafter the Cay Hill site for the envisioned Justice Park.

President of Parliament Hon. Drs. Rodolphe Samuel said on Thursday that the projects selected for the Dutch MPs to visit related to the Sewage Plant which was just recently opened; a major effort is underway to build a Waste Treatment Facility on Pond Island; and plans are in the works to build a Justice Park. The latter two developments will play a major role in the socio-economic and environmental development of the country.

The Dutch MPs will depart the island late Friday afternoon.

The First Chamber (Eerste Kamer) of the Dutch Parliament has 75 members. They are elected by the members of the 12 Provincial Councils. These elections are indirect where voters elect the members of the Provincial Councils, who in turn elect the members of the Senate.

The Senate's main duties are in the legislative field, but it also plays a role in scrutinizing the actions of the Government. Formally the Senate can only reject or accept legislation. Debates of legislation take place in the Senate with respect to the interpretation of a law.

The difference between the Dutch Second Chamber of Parliament (House of Representatives) and the First Chamber, MPs in the Second Chamber are paid to be full-time legislators while members of the Senate work part-time and receive an allowance. They also hold other positions.

The Dutch Senate has been in existence since 1815 when it was instituted by King William I.

Marigot:--- The gendarmes managed to arrest the driver of a car who refused to stop at a control point in Marigot not far away from the Office du Tourisme. According to a press release from the Gendarmerie on January 5th 2013, the driver of a vehicle tried to escape the control by turning around his vehicle and heading towards Sandy Ground. The Gendarmes managed to intercept the driver when he tried to park his vehicle in an attempt to flee. During the arrest of the suspect and a search of the vehicle the Gendarmes found 4 kg 750 grams of cannabis inside the car. The driver who is a resident of French St. Martin was immediately arrested and was sent to Guadeloupe pending his trial. The case is scheduled for February 1st, 2013.
The Gendarmes stated in their press release that during the first ten days of the year 2013 they confiscated more that 5 kilos 25 grams of cannabis, and 1 gram of crack and cocaine while they managed to arrest six persons in connection with drug possession.

Marigot/Philipsburg:--- Local musicians on the French side stood up to a band that was brought to St. Maarten by one Sharon Peterson who obtained a visa waiver from the Justice Ministry for the group. The band consisting of ten musicians known to some persons in the community as "Silver Stars" came to St. Maarten three times during the year 2012 through visa waivers which were issued by the Minister of Justice Roland Duncan.

On Wednesday, the band obtained permission from the French Culture Department to play on the waterfront for three nights free of cost. Public Relations Officer of the Gunslingers Band Aldrick Benjamin said the local musicians on both French and Dutch St. Maarten were not able to obtain any type on information on the foreign group who has been doing business on St. Maarten but claims they are working for free. Benjamin said that they started negotiations with the Culture Department of the Collectivity of St. Martin on Wednesday afternoon and managed to stop the band from performing on the French side since they lacked the necessary paperwork that is required by law. Benjamin further explained that the band is on St. Maarten for about five months operating at different locations. Benjamin said based on the information he gathered, Peterson spoke with Alex Piper from Youth Waves and asked that the band be allowed to perform on the French side for three nights for free. Benjamin said that is "prospecting" in the music industry and while they are not against foreign bands, these bands need to correspond with the local artists that have to comply with the various requirements before they can perform their art and conduct business on the island. "We have no problem with anyone but since there is no clarity on this group (band) we have been collecting information as to where they have been playing since they are on the island. What I know is that they have been playing for Maho Group of Companies and other areas on St. Maarten. This band was scheduled to play from 10 to 4 for three days on the Waterfront even though there is no particular occasion at this time of the year on the French side." Benjamin said he had no problem if the band had intended to play for a few hours but playing for hours for three days in row for free is prospecting so that businesses and other people would hire them. Benjamin said since July last year this band has been telling people they just want to play for a few hours and they are leaving but to date they are still here. "As far as I am concerned there is something fishy going on; we as business people on St. Martin/St. Maarten need to know what is happening. I want to make clear that the Department of Culture on the French side cooperated well with the local artists and they stopped the mission Silver Stars had planned on Thursday. Unless Silver Stars has the proper documentation they will not play on the French side of the island." Benjamin said. "I am not here to drag anyone down, I met with those working in the Culture Department and they acted according to the rules and regulations."

Sir Isidore York (The Mighty Dow) told SMN News in a telephone interview that he has been asking questions about this band for quite some time now and no one is able to tell him anything. Sir York said one night he showed up at the Sonesta Great Bay Resort to play and management of the resort asked him not to play but he stood up for his rights and both bands were allowed to play. Sir York said he even asked a certain Minister how it is possible for a foreign band to play on St. Maarten and the Minister basically told him that nothing could be done unless the laws are changed. The Mighty Dow said that he is not against improving steel pan music on St. Maarten but in his opinion things have to be done properly. "These people have been saying they are playing at various locations for free. The question now remains how are these people eating and who is paying for their housing and other needs. Who pays for their airline tickets multiple times per year?"

In an invited comment, Minister of Justice Roland Duncan admitted in an interview with SMN News that his Ministry granted the band permission to enter St. Maarten to play for Maho Group of Companies. The person who obtained the permit from the Justice Ministry Minister Duncan said was one Sharon Peterson whom he believes has a company registered on St. Maarten. Minister Duncan said that he remembered the last time Peterson received permission from his Ministry was sometime in November 2012. Minister Duncan made clear that his Ministry did not grant anyone a permit to play on St. Maarten for free. The band was granted permission to play for Maho Group of Companies and if they are saying they are playing for free this is where the water gets muddy.

The Justice Minister said that on the permits there are specific guidelines and if they are broken then there are enough reasons for the permit to be retracted. Minister Duncan said the Silver Stars received permission (visa waiver) to play for Maho Group of Companies and if they went to the French side they broke the rules and that is enough grounds for him to retract the permit. The Justice Minister made clear he has no authority to grant anyone permits to work on the French side. He said visa waivers are issued for a period of three months and persons can receive multiple visa waivers in one year. As for Silver Stars they got permission at least three times in 2012. The Minister said prior to the issuance of the permission they looked at all aspects especially since St. Maarten is a tourism destination and as such they need to have a variety of entertainment for the island's visitors. "We looked at how this would affect our local artists and we also looked at the Resort who can be considered local as well." Minister Duncan said that what happened now is sufficient reason for him to refuse the person requesting the permit in the future or retract the permit they have currently.

When SMN News asked if the band is paying its dues such as taxes, the Justice Minister said he cannot say because that falls directly under the Minister of Finance.

Marigot:--- The Collectivity of St. Martin will begin its census registration between January 17th and February 23rd, 2013. The objective of the census is not only to count the number of people living in France, it is also monitor annually the evolution of population, communities, and society more generally. Whether in nurseries, hospitals, pharmacies, housing, public transportation, neighborhood regeneration, sports facilities, etc., your responses are essential to help your elected officials to better meet your needs.
In 2013, part of the territory is identified. In fact, each year a survey is organized by the Community and INSEE in the municipalities of 10,000 inhabitants or more, with a sample of 8% of their population. Thus, it may be that you are identified this year, when another member of your neighborhood is not.
If you are concerned, a letter from the Chairman with an information notice will be given. An enumerator will come to your home from 17 January, 2013. You can recognize it by its official triple coloured map which contains a photograph and the signature of the mayor. It will help you to fill out a sheet for housing identified an individual form for each person living in the dwelling. The few minutes you take to respond to the questionnaires are important. The quality of the census depends on your participation. It is above all a civic act, but also a legal obligation under the law of 7 June, 1951. All your answers are confidential. They are transmitted to INSEE and cannot be subject to any administrative or tax.
To find answers to key questions on the census of population 2013: Census-www.le-and-moi.fr
To find out more and see the results of the previous census: www.insee.fr

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- The Collective Prevention Services (CPS) of the Ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labour, is recommending high risk groups to get their seasonal flu vaccination.

As part of the Minister of Public Health's "Get Checked," campaign, influenza is an acute viral infection that spreads very easily from person to person, and can affect anybody in any age group.

"Check with your physician to see whether or not you are part of the high risk group and be proactive. Get vaccinated and take measures to prevent you from getting the flu," Minister of Public Health, Social Development and Labour Hon. Cornelius de Weever said.

Influenza is a serious public health problem that causes severe illnesses and deaths for higher risk populations. Vaccination (flu shot) is the most effective way to prevent infection.

The US flu season has hit early and hard. According to the US Center for Disease Control (CDC), this is the earliest flu season in 10-years, and 80 per cent of the United States is seeing severe flu symptoms.

Persons who form part of the risk groups are:

• all pregnant women who are in the last six months of pregnancy or second trimester – from their fourth month onwards;
• with pulmonary disease: asthma (when maintenance medication is given; this also holds true for children), COPD, carcinoma of the lung, anthracosilicosis, lungfibrosis , mucoviscidosis, severe kyfoscoliosis, status after resection of a lung, breathing difficulties;
• with cardiac disease: having experienced a myocardial infarction, angina pectoris, arrhythmias, valve dysfunction, cardiac failure;
• with diabetes mellitus, even if not on medication;
• with chronic kidney disease/failure: dialysis, kidney transplant;
• after a recent bone marrow transplant;
• with HIV-infection;
• with an intellectual disability in an intramural setting;
• with a diminished resistance to infections: livercirrosis, (functional) asplenia, auto-immune illnesses, chemotherapy, immunosuppressive medication;
• 60 years and older.

Front-line workers as well as health care workers who may be in contact with patients pertaining to the medical risk groups (personnel in nursing homes, senior citizen home, hospital, outpatient clinics and general practitioner/specialist practices), should get their flu vaccination.

Home care givers of people with a very high risk for severe illness and mortality due to the flu should also be vaccinated.

The symptoms of the flu virus in people are fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue.

Members of the community are advised to check with their family physician on their seasonal flu vaccine and are strongly advised to take the necessary precautions to protect themselves and their family members from infection at home and especially traveling by maintaining high standards of personal hygiene.

Steps of personal hygiene entail covering your nose and mouth with a tissue when you sneeze or cough; washing your hands frequently with soap and water, especially after contact with respiratory secretions (e.g., after sneezing and coughing).

Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it. Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective. Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread this way.

Consult your family physician in due time and do not place others at risk. Take the necessary protection when in the vicinity of any sick persons.

Eat healthy foods, get a lot of exercise and maintain a good sleep schedule which is usually eight hours.

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Minister of Education, Culture, Youth Affairs and Sports Hon. Silveria Jacobs says under the theme, "Understanding The Times, Knowing What To Do!," will be the 8th Annual National Day of Prayer to be held Sunday, January 13, 2013 in front of the Government Administration Building. The ecumenical service will begin at 4:30 PM with Praise and Worship led by the Bells Brothers.

The Order of Service includes words of exhortation by the clergy representing the Council of Churches, Seventh Day Adventist Church and the St. Maarten United Ministerial Foundation.

Intercessory prayers and prayer of consecration will be offered by Pastor Vincent Gumbs, Pastor Emile Powell, Pastor Myrna Lake and Pastor Jamella Guy, Atul Pereppadan while Reverend Father Bob will deliver the sermonette. Honorable Prime Minister Sarah Wescot-Williams and Honorable Minister of Education, Culture, Sports and Youth Affairs will speak on behalf of government.

The National Day of Prayer is an annual observance held on the second Sunday of January, inviting people of all faiths to pray for the nation. It was decreed in 2005 by an Executive Council resolution of the then Island Territory of Sint Maarten, and became part and parcel of the annual cultural calendar of program and activities.

The National Day of Prayer Committee's mission is to communicate with every individual the need for personal repentance and prayer, mobilizing the Christian community to intercede for St. Martin and its leadership in the seven centers of power: Government, Law enforcement, Media, Business, Education, Church and Family.

In accordance with Biblical truth, the National Day of Prayer Committee seeks to:

• Foster unity within the Christian Church
• Protect St. Maarten's Constitutional Freedoms to gather, worship, pray and speak freely.
• Publicize and preserve St. Maarten's Christian heritage
• Encourage and emphasize prayer, regardless of current issues and positions
• Respect all people, regardless of denomination or creed
• Be wise stewards of God's resources and provision
• Glorify the Lord in word and deed

The committee further seeks to encourage "the understanding of the importance of cultural expression and diversity as essential elements of cultural development".

The Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports and Youth Affairs hereby encourages the general public to participate in the National Day of Prayer to intercede for St. Maarten's leaders and the entire population as we start a New Year.

Great Bay:--- As of today, January 9, 2013 all work permit resolutions for non-nationals will be available in English. The Ministry of Public Health Social Development & Labor recently had the work permit resolutions translated as a means of providing platinum customer service to the clients they serve.
"As a ministry we are constantly attempting to facilitate our clients. This translation has been in the making and after all the technical challenges and other priorities I am extremely happy to have this finalized. I am constantly listening to the complaints and trying to find new ways to address old/ pre-existing challenges. As a ministry we must continue to improve our services and be proactive," said Minister of Public Health Social Development & Labor, Cornelius De Weever.
Head of the Department of Labor, Peggy-Ann Dros stated that "Our business and private sector functions are primarily in the English language, and since the Work Permit has legislative consequences, it is important that businesses and the non-nationals are fully aware of same."
The Department of Labor Affairs has already made significant strides in addressing customer demands, by introducing an appointment system, as well as increased communication via email. Moreover, the department continues with the upgrades to its products and services, by creating heightened customer interaction opportunities.

Great Bay:--- The Minister of Public Health, Social Development & Labour, Cornelius De Weever has commissioned a research to look into the living situation and conditions of the elderly on St. Maarten and is asking all those persons that are part of the survey to cooperate with the interviewers that will be visiting their homes in the coming weeks.
This research aims to produce data and recommendations to help guide future preventative interventions for the elderly target group. It will focus on gathering and analyzing information of the elderly about chronic illnesses, disability and risk factors. Policy and programs related to the elderly will be supported in the future by the results of the research.
The first part of the research, an overview of the health care services currently available to the elderly has already been carried out. Currently, the consultant is busy with the second part of the research in which in-depth interviews will be held with the general public. Two different target groups will be interviewed in this phase of the research. The target group 60 + and those persons between ages of 50 to 59 that are part of the study. The first target group will provide information on the current situation of the elderly and the second target group will give an indication of problems that must be dealt with in the future for the elderly population.
This information is vital to improving the living situation and the present conditions of the elderly. Your cooperation with the interviewers that will be visiting the homes is highly appreciated.

PHILIPSBURG:--- The St. Maarten Hospitality & Trade Association SHTA has opened up an Environmental Defense Fund EDF at the Scotia Bank, "SHTA ACC 1015922," which it intends to use to generate funds for legal action against the degradation of the natural, cultural and social environment on St. Maarten.
The fund, short named "SHTA-EDF" will enable residents, corporate citizens and organizations to provide financial assistance to St. Maarten's environmental organizations so they can secure legal assistance when challenging ignorance of environmental policy and procedures.
The fund will be chaired by Rueben Thompson who heads the SHTA's Environmental Division. The SHTA has as part of an umbrella structure, several divisions that are under its purview such as wholesale division, construction division, small and large hotel division and the environmental division.
The SHTA believes that Government is jeopardizing the viability of our tourism driven economy by allowing and in many cases commissioning the destruction of St. Maarten's Natural and Cultural Heritage.
As a board member for SHTA and Director of Environmental Division Thompson said, "The durability of St. Maarten's tourism product hence largely relies on the level of nature conservation and environmental care and requires a balance between tourism and the environment."
Tourism and tourism related services are the driving force of St. Marten's economy, accounting for an estimated 80% of the island's economic activity.
According to the SHTA, "Long-term Sustainable economic development in St. Maarten, therefore calls for sustainable tourism, (main economic pillar). Sustainable tourism in turn may be defined as tourism which is developed and mai9ntained in such a manner and scale that it remains viable in the long run and does not degrade the natural, cultural and social environment in which it exists to such an extent that it prohibits the successful development of other activities now or in the future."
In this context the SHTA has mentioned the 2009 documentary in the National Geographic Traveler Magazine which spoke at length about the environmental conditions on St. Maarten. The article spoke of the extent of development on St. Maarten. These sentiments have also been issued by local environmental organizations, other residents, return visitors, international experts and a number of well read publications.
The National Geographic Traveler article stated, "Dutch St. Maarten is in trouble. St. Martin, the French Side of the island, is promising in terms of balancing development with the natural resources. The environmental and ecological quality of Dutch St. Maarten is threatened by over-development."
It also stated, "This Island presents one of the best examples of what islands should avoid in tourism development. Tourism has gobbled up the culture of the island, which now is defined by the hotels, casinos, and other modern developments-not the islands historical, artistic, culinary, or other local heritage. Quality of life is a major consideration for residents as well as visitors."
Those persons interested in donating to the fund in defense of the Environment should make checks out to "SHTA ACC 1015922 and can deposit funds directly to the Scotia Bank account.

The UP faction is concerned about the overdue delay in the release of Census 2011 statistical information to the community. This information is also very valuable for planning purposes for both public and private sectors.

The last Census was carried out in April 2011. Almost two years ago.

If we are to be considered a productive and forward thinking society, with an objective to be innovative and at the forefront of moving this country into the right direction, it is clear that proper research and credible data is a pre requisite to be successful in our efforts. Both government as well as business who are already established and those who would want to consider investing in our island must have timely access to this type of information.

Midterm and long term planning will bear fruit if one has access to formal information regarding our population movement in all aspects. The well- being, safety and quality development of our highly diversified society is a priority.

A letter with a request from the UP-Faction inviting Minister of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transport and Telecommunications, the Honorable Romeo Pantophlet via the President of Parliament, to Parliament to give account to the people with be sent out this week.

Ministers are politically responsible for the day to day management of this country. We cannot suffice with the press briefings only or statements to the media. Their positions and clarifications must be recorded in Parliament.

Transparency on this matter is warranted. I hope that the minister will be clear and forthcoming regarding the problems encountered and how he aims to solve these bottlenecks if any.

Gracita Arrindell
Member of Parliament, United People's (UP) party faction

The St. Maarten Nature Foundation is once again conducting its Marine Mammal Monitoring project which will last from January until May. The Nature Foundation, in cooperation with Dolphin Defenders St. Maarten, will be conducting a wide scale census of all Marine Mammals found in St. Maarten/ St. Martin territorial waters, including within the Man of War Shoal Marine Park. "Many on St. Maarten might not be aware that there is a relatively significant Marine Mammal population in the waters surrounding St. Maarten, including numerous species of whales and dolphins. St. Maarten lies within the area of the Western Atlantic where various whale species come to give birth to their young. From February to May several hundreds of Humpback Whales migrate from the northern Atlantic to areas within the Caribbean to give birth and nurse their young before heading back up north", read a statement from the Nature Foundation.

Numerous other species of whale and dolphin, including sperm whales and several types of dolphins, make their home in local waters. Several questions are hoped to be answered as a result of the study, including most numerous species, migration routes and dates, and the feasibility of regulated wild whale and dolphin watching trips. This year the Nature Foundation will once again be partnering with Dolphin Defenders St. Maarten to bring greater awareness to the general public about St. Maarten's wild Marine Mammal Population and conservation issues faced by Marine Mammals in local waters.

The most abundant Maine Mammal species recorded in 2012 was the Humpback Whale, with the total number recorded at 41 individuals, including calves. The second most abundant species was the Bottle Nose Dolphin, with total of 21 individuals; the third most abundant species recorded was the Long Snouted Spinner Dolphin with 15 individuals recorded within the island's territorial waters. During research conducted in conjunction with the French Marine Reserve and the AGOA Marine Mammal Sanctuary, The Nature Foundation also observed numerous Sperm Whales including mothers with young. Using acoustic research and visual observations researchers are now trying to determine if there is a Sperm Whale traveling route in the deep waters between St. Maarten and Saba.

The Man of War Shoal Marine Park had a considerable number of recordings of both whale and dolphin species which adds considerably to the biological value of the Park. Acoustic recordings of Male Humpback Whales singing were also taken at various points in the waters surrounding St. Maarten, and the public is urged to listen to the local whale songs and look at video and photo of marine mammals in our local waters by looking at the Nature Foundation YouTube clip Nature Foundation Marine Mammal Research 2012.

If the public is interested in participating in the marine Mammal census they can send an email to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. and request a sighting form. Various charter boat and dive operators have been given copies of forms which they will distribute to their clients.

EPIC's conservation staff has just completed its 12th year of island-wide bird monitoring. EPIC staff has, for each year since 2001, surveyed every wetland on the entire island during the winter period. Additionally, staff has surveyed every winter seabird colony on the island, including the two known Caribbean Brown Pelican colonies. Finally, songbird monitoring efforts on the northern flanks of Pic Paradis have just been completed and over 130 different songbirds of 22 species were monitored. The discovery of an over-wintering Tennessee Warbler on Pic Paradis was the highlight for 2012, in that it was the first record for the species on the island and only the second for the entire Lesser Antilles. EPIC Senior Biologist Adam Brown leads the bird monitoring efforts for the organization. Adam said of the recent bird monitoring work, "It's been very rewarding leading the bird conservation efforts for EPIC over this long period of time. We have been able to document changes in bird populations, track movements of birds between areas, and link significant bird population changes to habitat changes. EPIC's data set is one of the most long-term in the Caribbean, and has allowed us to take a step back and see the big picture on what is happening to birds on St. Maarten and in the Caribbean as a whole." EPIC will continue its bird conservation work on the island in future years, including continuing population monitoring as well as advocating for the protection of vital bird habitat island-wide.

EPIC Press Release

Philipsburg (DCOMM):--- The Department of Economy, Transportation & Telecommunication (DETT) has began its 1st Mini Caribbean Conference on Macro Economic Analysis and Modeling at Divi Little Bay Hotel.

The conference's primary goals are to exchange ideas and expertise on how to use macroeconomic models to assist in policy preparation, and forecasting. The group will meet, during the week, with other internal and external stakeholders, i.e. Economist from Suriname, the Statistical and Finance departments and the Chamber of Commerce, the St. Maarten Trade and Tourism Association, among others.

Secretary General, a.i., of the Ministry of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transportation & Telecommunication (TEZVT), Miguel de Weever, welcomed the audience on behalf of the Minister of Economic Romeo Pantophlet, who could not be present.

De Weever said that it is a great pleasure that we reached this level. This economic model will assist in constructing policy and serves as the foundation for making sound decisions. It is the hope that this conference expands to include other countries within the region and for us to exchange ideas, confront challenges, and share information and solutions

As for the model itself, which is meant to provide information beyond impact analysis, de Weever said that it should be fine-tuned for consistency, user friendliness, adoptability, and sustainability.

Head of Department of Economy, Transportation & Telecommunication (DETT) Mrs. Lucy Richardson who chaired the opening further explained about the inception of the Model and the purpose of the conference.

Richardson explained that work on making the model come to fruition started since 2010. Special mention should be given to funding agency USONA, the department's technical partners such as Micromacro Consultants, Kalmera BV and other internal and external partners, for providing the necessary data, and feedback on economic developments and trends.

Richardson indicated that her department is responsible for many things, one of which is the monitoring, evaluating, and forecasting of economic activity. For such, the model is a vital tool, that enhances the process. This conference, which will be an annually event, hosting regional economist, affords us the opportunity to create a platform where we can share expertise on the use and development of macro-economic models and key indicators.

Two presenters from the DETT, Jude Houston and Erika Radjouki presented the macro economic model for St. Maarten, namely, SMAART.

After this presentation, Sara Delgado, a Jr. Consultant with the firm Micromacro Consultants BV, provided information on the Macro/Micro economic model of Cape Verde islands as well as the two economists from Suriname.

Philipsburg:--- Minister of Labour, Health, and Social Welfare Cornelius de Weever announced on Wednesday during the Council of Ministers' weekly press briefing on Wednesday that the resolution for work permits will now be issued in the English Language. Minister De Weever said the change in policy is to facilitate and provide better services to their clients. The Minister said that the new policy goes into effect as of Wednesday January 9th, 2013. Minister de Weever said government realized that most businesses on St. Maarten use the English Language therefore they translated the work permit resolution to accommodate them.

Minister de Weever also announced that there is a survey on the elderly currently ongoing and he is calling on all the elderly persons residing on the island to cooperate with the interviewers when they knock on their doors for information. The Minister said the AOV was recently increased to Naf. 1000.00 and there are those that have concerns on this but he called on the persons that are criticizing to bring along data with them to substantiate their criticisms. Minister de Weever went as far as saying that those persons who believe that the AOV should be the same as that of the Kingdom should meet with the members of the first chamber when they visit the island. He said the elderly that he met thus far are very grateful for the increase they got. He further explained that if they are to work on another increase in the AOV the concerned persons must bring along data so that they can substantiate their claim because St. Maarten as a country has to do things responsibly.

Mental Health Foundation and Turning Point will Receive Temporary Permit.

The Minister of Health also announced on Wednesday that the Mental Health Foundation and Turning Point will receive a Temporary Permit in order for them to provide services. The Minister of Health said that when someone's rights (someone with an episode of mental health and substance abuse) are to be taken away an evaluation has to be conducted by an independent psychiatrist.

The Health Minister further explained that when the Minister of Justice takes a decision on removing someone's rights he must be provided with a report from an independent psychiatrist. Minister de Weever said the Mental Health Foundation doctor cannot be used solely to evaluate clients at the institution. De Weever said he and the Minister of Justice met with all four psychiatrists on St. Maarten and these persons were informed that protocol has to be followed. He said he hired someone who would be working in his Ministry to deal specifically with these cases. The Minister said he also met with the board members of the Mental Health Foundation to inform them on the procedures to which they have agreed.

Minister De Weever said one things he noticed recently at the Mental Health Foundation is that children and adolescents are not seen by the child and adolescents physiatrist. "I personally met with the doctor from Mental Health Foundation and during the time that doctor was there a child was at the institution and the child and adolescents physiatrist was not called and I recommended that should be done. In the end, the child was seen by that specialist and it turned out that the child ended up receiving treatment at the St. Maarten Medical Center." Minister de Weever said that he is aware that the MHF would like to offer different types of services but government has to ensure that the facilities they have are conducive to provide the services they want to provide. The Minister said that there must be secured space for patients to move around when they need to and especially take fresh air. Minister de Weever said Turning Point has much more space and there are also patients that have dual problems, such as mental and the abuse of illegal substances. He dismissed the idea that St. Maarten wants to send its patients to Curacao for treatment when there are facilities locally. He concluded that government has to protect patients and they intend to appoint a lawyer to these patients because they all have their rights.

SIMPSON BAY:--- The Princess Juliana International Airport has published the Expressions of Interest documents for the new concession plan.

As noted last year, Princess Juliana International Airport Operating Company (PJIAE) together with InterVISTAS Consulting Group has developed a concession plan to increase passenger satisfaction, concessionaire sales and airport income. This includes an overhaul of the existing program and features a walk-through duty-free store and a central food court. PJIA currently has 22 retail and seven food & beverage concessions pre- and post-security.

The new concession program is being publicly tendered in a two-phase process. An Expression of Interest (EOI) phase will run from 8 to 24 January 2013. A Request for Proposal (RFP) phase with short-listed candidates will follow from 5 February to 25 March (timings to be confirmed).

There are 24 concession packages, one for each individual concession, ranging from a 1,000sq. meter large walk-through duty-free store to landside food & beverage concessions. Parties may express their interest in multiple packages.

The EOI documents are available for download from the PJIA website at www.pjiae.com.

Philipsburg:--- Prime Minister Sarah Wescot Williams shed light on the procedures that have to be followed if the government of St. Maarten needs to add subsidy for a government owned company such as Postal Services St. Maarten (PSS) to its annual budget. Wescot Williams said government owned companies are mentioned in the budget on the dividends, they are supposed to pay to the government of St. Maarten if they make profit. Wescot Williams said that when she heard the budget story regarding government not budgeting anything for PSS she felt that there was some sort of misconception. Wescot Williams said budgeting for government owned companies is a misconception she also made clear that the government of St. Maarten does not have any government owned companies listed in their budget for subsidy. She said if there is a need for government to assist one of its companies then they would have to follow lengthy procedures for this to take place. When asked if there was no possibility to assist PSS knowing that the government owned company was facing its own financial woes, the shareholder representative said it is not as easy as one may want to believe. SMN News reporter asked the Prime Minister who is also the shareholder representative what did the government of St. Maarten do to protect its assets that NPNA took away from PSS, Wescot Williams said that St. Maarten is a minority shareholder and if the assets had belonged to St. Maarten then NPNA could not have taken up anything and move with it. "It is not because St. Maarten has a 25% or less shares in NPNA we could have stopped them from taking the vehicles, chairs, and other materials away."

Regarding the resignation of the current director of PSS Denicio Richardson who recently submitted his resignation to the Prime Minister, she acknowledged receipt of the resignation letter but said that the matter has not yet been handled. Wescot Williams refused to say if proper procedures were followed when Richardson was appointed Director of PSS. When asked by SMN News if the government of St. Maarten sought an advice on Richardson from the Corporate Governance Council and if his salary was approved by the council, Wescot Williams said she will not discuss anything regarding the labour dispute with the PSS director. As of now she said no one has been selected to take over from Richardson who is scheduled to leave his position on February 1st, 2013. Wescot Williams said the Supervisory Board still has to deal with Richardson's resignation and the meeting he and his attorney requested.

Philipsburg:--- Prime Minister Sarah Wescot Williams confirmed on Wednesday during the Council of Ministers' weekly press briefing that St. Maarten was fully aware that St. Maarten would have been cut out of the Border Management System (BMS). "The so-called disconnect did not come totally unexpected. However, the Minister of Justice's views on how the system is set up is very clear to the Council of Ministers. When we informed the other parties that we will not agree to the way Curacao and the Netherlands want to set up the system we were told we would be disconnected. The Minister of Justice is working very hard to pick up from where the system was cut off and move on."

Minister of Justice Roland Duncan told SMN News that based on what he has seen with the ongoing disagreement with the joint Central Bank, he did not think it wise for St. Maarten to have another joint agreement. On this point, the Prime Minister said the two issues are totally different and in the case of the joint Central Bank there is an agreement and if parties cannot agree then they must agree to disagree. Wescot- Williams agreed that having all of St. Maarten's information stored in Curacao is not feasible to the country's economy. She insisted that when St. Maarten informed the other partners that the island will not be part of the system they were informed that they will be cut out of it. The Prime Minister further explained that St. Maarten is working with what it has even though it is not an ideal situation. "We do not have a complete system in place but the Ministry of Justice is working on the issue." When asked if the Council of Ministers has the same view as the Minister of Justice with regards to holding the Dutch Government liable for the damages the island suffered during the period of time it was cut off, the Prime Minister said that was not discussed. She said she is in favor of seeking the country's right if they were wronged but she could not say how successful they are going to be on such a mission.

I would like to congratulate the minimum wage earners of this country with respect to the annual minimum wage indexation that they will be receiving retroactive to January 1, 2013. This is long overdue and under the UP/DP Government, it was a priority to get this implemented within our term of Government, however, due to a change in government, we still commend the Minister of Labour Cornelius de Weever for seeing this through.

The UP faction also welcomes the increase in the pension for senior citizens; however, we also would like to get information from the Minister responsible Cornelius De Weever with respect to how many pensioners will receive this increase.

The UP faction has taken note of the concerns of the St. Maarten Seniors and Pensioners Association First Vice President Raymond Jessurun where he states that the persons who will collect a pension of Naf.1000 are only persons who had been working in the former Netherlands Antilles for 45 years that will be entitled to this maximum amount once it goes into effect.

The UP faction favours the increase in the pension for our seniors as the costs of living impacted by world fuel prices increases prices of goods in the supermarkets. The UP faction will be making use of its right to question the Minister of Social Development with respect to this issue and a letter will be forthcoming via the President of Parliament.

Sylvia Meyers
Interim Faction Leader, Member of Parliament, United People's (UP) Party faction

The Police Traffic Department and the Department of VROMI are informing the general public that in connection with the repairing (resurfacing) of the G.A. Arnell road which is located between the "One Tete Lokay" round- a-bout and the round-a-bout at the top of the Cole Bay Hill, better known as "Link Two" will be closed to all traffic on Wednesday January 9th from 8:00pm until all repairs have taken place. The public is asked to take keen note of this information.

On Tuesday January 8th, a man with initials M.A. reported to the police department that while he was in Nazareth area he was attacked by two very large and extremely aggressive pigs. These pigs were walking close to Amsterdam road and Monrovia drive when the incident occurred. As a result of the attack, the victim sustained minor wounds and bruises which were treated at the Sint Maarten Medical Center. The police dept. was trying to locate the owner(s) of these pigs which are openly roaming the streets of Nazareth but was unable to locate them. The owner(s) of these pigs are advised to have these pigs locked in a pen. Aggressive animals roaming the public roads and endangering the public will not tolerated.

KPSM Police Report

Pointe Blanche:--- On Monday, January 7th, 2012 between 6:00 and 8:00 pm, GEBE's technicians successfully upgraded a switch feeding the main cable to the Pointe Blanche, Monte Vista and Back Bay areas. This upgrade should effectively resolve the power supply issues that residents have been experiencing in these areas during the holidays and return the situation to normal. GEBE will continue to monitor the situation.

The situation needed some time to remedy as GEBE needed to trouble shoot the exact cause of the problem, and to exclude other possible causes, such as cables, protection devices and transformers.

GEBE apologizes for any inconvenience that was caused over the holiday season.

GEBE Press Release

Philipsburg:--- President of the Windward Islands Teachers Union (WITU) Claire Elshot told reporters on Tuesday during WICLU's weekly press briefing that she is still awaiting a response from the Minister of Education Silveria Jacobs on the meeting she requested to discuss some pertinent issues affecting teachers especially those working in the Public Schools on St. Maarten.

Besides the issues that are affecting teachers, Elshot said there are other issues the union wants to discuss with the Minister pertaining to workers rights on St. Maarten. Elshot further explained that government was working on the legislation to address the Employment Agencies on St. Maarten and to date that has not been finalized. The unions on St. Maarten have some grave concerns with regards to Employment Agencies and their concerns are not being taken into consideration. During the meeting held with the "petit committee" Elshot said they looked at the pros and cons verses the economy on St. Maarten.

The WITU union leader said that when they discussed the issue they took example from the Netherlands regarding Employment Agencies and the role they play. She said right now workers on St. Maarten lack legal protection in the workforce. Elshot said they managed to identify where workers are being employed for ten to sixteen years on a contractual basis. "When these workers requested that they become permanent employees they are being fired and when they seek legal recourse they are not given any satisfaction." Elshot made a special plea to workers on St. Maarten to be unionized so that their labour rights can be protected. She said when this happens the union can move forward with a collective voice on behalf of the workers that are being abused in the work force through the Employment Agencies. Elshot stressed that when workers tackle their issues individually they are being victimized or terminated from their jobs. Elshot further explained that there are too many workers on St. Maarten that are not part of the collective body or a union of their choice.

The WITU president said in most cases workers would consult the unions when they face problems and in those cases it is sometimes too late for the unions to assist them. In 2013, the most critical issue for the unions and the chamber of labour unions is to sensitize workers on St. Maarten and to get the workers in the private sector unionized.

President of Windward Islands Chamber of Labour Union (WICLU) and Workers Institute for Organized Labor (WIFOL) Theophilus Thompson also shared the same sentiments regarding workers that are not unionized on St. Maarten. Thompson said workers that are working in the Indian Stores and Chinese Supermarkets (stores) are not unionized because these businesses hire people from their own origin and this makes it harder for these workers to become unionized. The unionist said that because of that the WIFOL amended its articles of incorporation which allows workers that are interested to join the union individually.

Thompson said some years ago workers working for set of stores in Philipsburg had an issue with their employer and once the union intervened and the matter was resolved. However, two weeks later the owner of the stores outsourced the workers to an Employment Agency. "Some of the workers stood their ground and to date they are working for the owner of the stores while some of the workers left their jobs because they were not interested in working for the Employment Agencies, and some of the workers went ahead with the employer's wishes and registered under the Employment Agency. When asked if the Employment Agencies took on the responsibility of the workers years of service with the company, Thompson said the workers who went ahead and signed contracts with the Employment Agency lost their years of service and other benefits.

The President and Vice President also addressed other issues that are hindering workers such as the registration for the pension fund. Elshot said that APS is now asking persons to provide a document to show that they are still alive. "This document is only required for persons living outside of St. Maarten or for those persons who gave someone a power of attorney to collect their pension."

PHILIPSBURG:--- The St. Maarten Carnival Development Foundation (SCDF) has launched the official Carnival 2013 calendar of events which, as the SCDF put it, "takes over" the entire month of April 2013. Sponsored again by long time partner Scotiabank and boasting its new branding logo and slogan "Come, Experience Life", Carnival festivities start as early as April 6, 2013.

The format of the schedule deviates from the customary vertical layout, to a horizontal one, giving the SCDF a little more room for design aspects.

Though Carnival doesn't officially open with the opening of Carnival Village on April 18, the SCDF and its stakeholders and partners has a number of events scheduled prior to the opening of the Village.

The official dates of Carnival 2013 run from April 18 until May 2, when King Momo is burnt. The schedule features five jump ups, three parades, five international concert nights, seven local nights including all four Carnival queen pageants and the biggest local night, the Senior Calypso Finals.

Carnival 2013 will also feature a US $2 Family Fun and Cultural Night with the intention to showcase several cultural acts on in the main stage in Carnival Village while children bouncers and other playful materials fill Carnival Village.

Also on the scheduled are two events not hosted by the SCDF, but supported by the foundation as parts of Carnival. On April 13, Brenda Wathey and Rio Productions will take to the road for the second annual "Lightin Up De Road" lighted parade, which was a major hit last year.

The following day, April 14, Jasmine Philips and Survivors will host for the first time an elementary school balloon parade. "It's important that we get children involved in Carnival through positive Carnival related events, so it's a great initiative by Survivors to host this event," President of the SCDF Mike Granger said.

The international shows are a mix of music genres. Carnival Village kicks off immediately with an Antillean concert on April 19, followed by a Zouk and Compas Concert on April 20. There will also be a Latin Night, a Soca Blend Night and a reggae night by Clarence Derby's CD Entertainment. Derby will stage "Reggae Explosion III" to re-enter the Carnival concert promotion arena after being out a few years.

"In general we are obviously very happy with the lineup and we hope all carnival lovers will be as well. We have gone through months of negotiations with promoters and other stakeholders. We opened registration since September 2012 and closed on December 1, 2012 and we're pleased with registration figures though some shows, such as the road march and soca monarch did not draw sufficient registration to warrant a full show."

Other than that, we have a very exciting schedule of events, we have basically taken over the month of April 2013 for Carnival and we aim to have a fettin' good time," Granger said.

He went on to heap praise on Scotiabank for once again partnering with the SCDF in producing the calendar. "It's always good to have committed corporate sponsors that you can count on. Scotia has been a loyal partners for many years and we are very happy that the bank has decided to once again show its belief in our festival," Granger said.

The SCDF will be "rolling out" several items regarding Carnival 2013 over the next few days. "This is just the beginning," Granger added. SCDF can be contacted by emailing This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or calling 5225133. The carnival schedule will be distributed and/or published island wide, regionally and internationally.

The Study Financing Division has extended until January 15, 2013, the submission period of the study financing application forms for the school year 2013. Application forms must be submitted during working hours from 8.00 a.m. - 5.00 p.m. at the Division Study Financing, N. de Brot street nr. 3, Vlaun's Building, 2nd floor, (opposite the Post Office) in Philipsburg. After the above mentioned deadline date no new application forms will be accepted. For more information please contact the Division at Tel: 5422363/5423718 ext: 131-134,140, or visit the Government's website at: http://www.study-sxm.org.

Postal Services St. Maarten NV (PSS) recently wrapped up its CHRISTMAS PARCEL SPECIAL in December to the Netherlands and experienced a very good turn out and results with parcels being delivered within as little as three (3) days after leaving St. Maarten, giving our loved ones in the Netherlands a very good and early nice Christmas treat. From feedback received many students and parents were happy that their loved ones received their special package so quick and complete, making their Christmas away from home special thanks to PSS and its team. In return Mr. Richardson and his PSS team hereby thanks all the parents, students, and persons that made use of our special program once more and entrusting your post office to deliver yet again. PSS Management will ensure this special becomes an annual event.

The PSS team worked hard to ensure that all the parcels were properly labelled, stored and secured at its facilities, and finally delivered. All the packages left the island as planned on the two (2) planned dates the 11 and 21 December 2012, for the Netherlands. Many students were pleasantly surprised to receive their boxes in literally days, after leaving the island. In the future PSS will be looking into not only continuing this services but also seeking to expand into other markets where arrangements can be made to ensure delivery is prompt and secured. PSS urges those few if any who are still awaiting their parcels to contact their local Dutch post office to arrange for their delivery to avoid the packages being sent back after a number of failed delivery attempts is made, back to St. Maarten.

Should anyone wish to inquire or get more information in general please feel free to contact our local Post Office at Tel.: +1 721 542 2289 ext. 100 or 127 or by e-mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

PSS and the team again says thank you to the community and we are working to better serve you, by bringing the postal world to your doorsteps.

Marigot:--- The Gendarmes are calling on eyewitnesses to come forward and provide them with information as they investigate the death of homeless man who was attacked on New Year's Day on Rue de Anguilla. According to a press release from the Gendarmerie, a homeless couple was attacked around 5pm.

The couple was attacked by two youths in a passage way not far away from the Anguilla port. The 51 year old unidentified male victim was evacuated to Martinique for further treatment since he received severe injuries to his head. Despite the medical efforts, the man died of his injuries.

Persons that have information on the attack are asked to call 0590 52 30 12.

It is also reported that the female that was with the man at the time of the attack was raped by the two attackers. The woman did not suffer other major injuries. News reports state that the couple was sleeping on the roadsides in Marigot because Le Manteau de Saint Martin did not have any available beds at the time. It is also reported that the woman received some assistance from the Red Cross who later sent her back to her relatives in St. Barths.

PHILIPSBURG:--- In a reaction to a news report on Tuesday that an invitation may be needed to attend a meet and greet with Members of the Dutch First Chamber of Parliament on Thursday, January 10, President of Parliament Hon. Drs. Rodolphe Samuel said on Tuesday that everybody is invited, an invitation is not needed.

The public can meet with Dutch MPs at the Cultural Centre on Backstreet from 7:00pm to 8:30pm.

President Samuel said on Tuesday that this is also an opportunity for business representative organizations and labour groups, as well as Non-Governmental Organizations to meet and greet the MPs.

Between 2013 and 2015, the 200 years existence of the Kingdom of the Netherlands will be celebrated with a range of activities.

This is one of the reasons to remember the joint history, present and future of the Kingdom in all its diversity, President Samuel acknowledges.

"The three areas that I plan on bringing up with Dutch MPs are the future positions of the Kingdom of the Netherlands and the partners that make-up the Kingdom.

"With respect to Kingdom inhabitants, how the Kingdom will evolve for Caribbean Kingdom inhabitants, and thirdly, the future economy of the Kingdom, how the various partners can advance together and make use of the opportunities.

"It is good that the common man has an opportunity to discuss these and other issues relevant to them at such the meet and greet event," President Rodolphe Samuel pointed out.

Marigot:--- A lone courier who was about to transport Euros 20,000.00 from the Change Point in French Quarter (Change Quarter) was robbed shortly after 9am on Tuesday morning. SMN News learnt that the courier was about to leave the business place on a motorcycle taking the large sum of monies with him in a back-pack when he was attacked by two masked men at gun point. SMN News learnt that the courier was supposed to take the monies to deposit at a bank in Marigot.

An eyewitness to the early morning robbery said the robbers were inside a car bearing French number plates. The eyewitness who preferred to remain anonymous said that the bandits knocked the courier to the ground as he was about to get on his motorcycle. After committing the attack the two gunmen escaped towards the border leading up to the Belvedere area. No details on the color and make of the escape vehicle were provided.

The armed robbery occurred outside of the establishment leaving the lone female employee inside in shock and despair.

The employee told SMN News that the incident occurred outside and she did not see what happened. She said Change Quarter has cameras inside the building but not outside.
Change Quarter has been operating in French Quarter for about two years now. The owner of the money exchange business also owns a Change Point in Marigot. Despite the armed robbery, the business place remained open on Tuesday and conducted business as usual.

Commandant of the Gendarmerie Paul Betaille confirmed the armed robbery occurred early Tuesday morning in French Quarter but refused to divulge any information on the ongoing investigation which he said is conducted by the Bridgade de Recherche.

Mr. Denicio Richardson on behalf of Postal Services St. Maarten NV is proud to have selected the late Dr. Claude Wathey and Vance James Jr. to be featured as the first two local heroes to be followed by others in the future, in its first upcoming set of local hero stamps for country St. Maarten. The stamps are currently in production and will be made available for sale very soon in the early part of the year. As stamps serve as ambassadors for its country to the world, PSS found it an honor to the faces of these two great men, to travel the corners of the world and ensure their legacy lives on and who contributed so much to our country development. This series of stamps will compliment a list of collectors stamps that are already in place and available at our post office, for purchase.

The themes that PSS will be making available for 2013 includes: Churches, Birds, Heroes, SXM Scenes, Butterflies, Boy Scouts, 200th Anniversary of the Dutch Kingdom, Classic Boats, Light houses, Chess and Classic Paintings. These themes will form the stamp collectors for PSS for the year 2013.

PSS is urging all stamp collectors, children and adults to come by and view what all stamps PSS has available and for purchase and from time to time will be promoting the addition of new sets. PSS remains open to promote special large events with its stamps and designs.

Mr. Richardson and the postal service family (PSS) hereby thank the community for its continued support and wish all a prosperous 2013 from the management and staff.

For more information please contact your local post office at Tel. 542-2289 or 545 3782 or by e-mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Philipsburg:--- The Prime Minister of St. Maarten the Honorable Sarah Wescot-Williams confirms that the launching of the Governing Program, which was scheduled for Wednesday, the 9th of January, has been postponed due to the absence of three key Ministers. The Prime Minister stated earlier that the launch might be postponed due to the absence of the ministers who would be presenting at the launch. The new date set for the launch is January 16.

The launching of the Governing Program will feature presentations from each Minister about the elements from their respective Ministries laid out in the Governing Program. There will also be opportunities for invited guests to interact with each Minister to discuss the various programs and projects that are outlined in the GP.

The Prime Minister will also be presenting a copy of the Governing Program to the Governor of St. Maarten His Excellency Eugene Holiday and to President of Parliament the Hon. Rodolphe E. Samuel.

Some one hundred guests are expected to attend the official launching of the Governing Program. The launch will also feature updates on various social media sites and extensive coverage to inform the public of St. Maarten of the content of the program.

From the Cabinet of the Prime Minister

The establishment of the Man of War Shoal Marine Park through the combination of economic and scientific research has been highlighted as one of the few examples of success in the Caribbean Region, according to a report from the World Resources Institute (WRI) released in December. The St. Maarten Nature Foundation conducted an Economic Valuation Study on St. Maarten's coral reef ecosystems some two years ago, which was used as one of the driving factors behind the establishment of the Man of War Shoal Marine Park. The study sought to place a monetary estimate on the coral reefs surrounding the island. Based on the research conducted by the Nature Foundation, with the assistance of the United Nations' Environment Program (UNEP) and the World Resources Institute (WRI), St. Maarten's Coral Reefs were estimated to be worth a total of $57, 742, 997 in contributions to the economy of St. Maarten and placed the emphasis on the need to protect them.
According to the WRI Report, Governments, corporations, and development agencies are increasingly interested in putting a dollar value on ecosystems in order to balance conservation and development needs, a concept known as economic valuation. "St. Maarten's government recently established the country's first national park after a local organization, the Nature Foundation, found that the area's coastal ecosystems contribute $58 million per year through tourism and fisheries," stated a release from the WRI. Other studies also listed as having positive outcomes were from Belize, which enacted a host of new fishing regulations based on a WRI valuation, which found that coral reef- and mangrove-associated tourism contributes $150 million-$196 million per year to the country's economy. And from Bonaire, where park managers used economic valuation to justify the Bonaire Marine Park's establishment of user fees—making it one of the few self-financed marine parks in the Caribbean. "These stories show that economic valuation can indeed lead to better coastal policy, conserving these ecosystems and securing their important economic contributions. However, according to new WRI research, these cases tend to be the exception in the Caribbean," read a statement from the WRI.
The World Resources Institute (WRI) is an environmental think tank founded in 1982 and is based in Washington, D.C. in the United States. WRI is an independent, non-partisan and nonprofit organization with a staff of more than 100 scientists, economists, policy experts, business analysts, statistical analysts, mapmakers, and communicators developing and promoting policies with the intention of protecting the Earth and improving people's lives.

The Man of War Shoal Marine Park includes globally threatened coral reef as well as seagrass ecosystems. The marine Park is a home and migratory stop over or breeding site for 3 IUCN Red List Species, 10 CITES Appendix I species and 89 Appendix II species, all of which range from Critically Endangered or Endangered. The St. Maarten Nature Foundation manages the Man of War Shoal Marine Park.

PHILIPSBURG:--- What is projected to become one of the most upscale and exclusive shopping areas in the Caribbean just surfaced with the opening of the Blue Mall shopping center in Cupecoy, St. Maarten (www.VacationStMaarten.com). Convenient to both the French and Dutch sides of the island and away from the hustle and bustle of downtown, the mall's soft launch featured the opening of six stores - Enjoy SXM, Fashion and Chic, Swarovski, Swatch Watches, Bacchus and Yogen Fru.

Additionally, Blue Mall will open more stores and other amenities through the first quarter of 2013.

Offering a unique and unparalleled shopping experience in the Caribbean, the Blue Mall shopping facility combines modern architecture with the openness of the region's lifestyle.

"St. Maarten is already a shopper's paradise offering guests duty-free shopping and an abundant assortment of stores," said Edward Dest, interim Director of Tourism for the St. Maarten Tourist Bureau. "The opening of Blue Mall further solidifies the island as a shopping capital to both our visitors and residents with over 110,000 square feet of merchandise and dining."
Blue Mall, located at 162 Rhine Road, Cupecoy, St. Maarten, is easily accessible from the French side of the island via Terre Basses and is just a short distance from Princess Juliana International Airport, Mullet Bay Beach and Cupecoy Beach.

Philipsburg:--- Minister of Finance Roland Tuitt announced on Monday during an extra-ordinary press conference that vehicle owners can begin paying their road taxes immediately. Minister Tuitt said the road taxes can be paid directly at the Receiver's Office, at the various banks, or via e-banking. Minister Tuitt said that nothing much has changed.

However, persons who choose to do their payments via the bank or e-banking would have to answer some supplementary questions. Those paying via the bank and e-banking would have to fill in their names, address, date of birth, identification number, crib number, license plate number, and the type and model of vehicle.

Minister Tuitt said while the new system is into effect, the law on the changes is not yet finalized. He said just recently the advisory council submitted their advice to government and as soon as the adjustments are made to the new law it will be sent to Parliament for their approval. Tuitt made clear that even though the law is not yet finalized owners of vehicles can pay their road taxes as of now.

Tuitt Attacks UP Leader Theo Heyliger --- "Theonomics".

The Minister of Finance also took several jabs at the leader of the United Peoples Party whom he said has become very active these past few days. Tuitt said the UP party is very vocal since the opening of the New Year by spreading "doom" for the island. Tuitt said in reaction to what the UP party is saying he has coined a new term for the UP leader Theodore Heyliger, that new term is "Theonomics."

Tuitt said "Theonomics" is built on certain pillars such as imposing more taxes on the people of St. Maarten. Tuitt explained that proof of that could be seen when the UP/DP Government increased TOT from 3% to 5% while they were in office. The Finance Minister said another pillar of Theonomics is creating budget deficits. In the year 2010, the budget deficit was over 30 million guilders, the year 2011 was also over 30 million guilders. Tuitt said for the year 2010 St. Maarten got a windfall with the debt relief from the Netherlands and that was the reason there is a profit of 30 million guilders on the records. The Finance Minister said if the figures are taken as is then one would realize that "Theonomics" has created a debt of 30 million guilders. The Finance Minister continued his explanations of Theonomics by saying they created a bridge to nowhere which will cost each taxpayer $1,342.00. That figure he said he based on a quick calculation if there are 38,000 people residing on the island. Tuitt said the bridge to nowhere has also created an increase in harbor fees which is passed on to the consumers (the common man) that are suffering due to the high prices. The increase on goods and services Tuitt said is directly linked to the bridge to nowhere. Tuitt said when the bridge is completed each taxpayer can say that the bridge to nowhere has cost them $1,342. 00. Tuitt said because of Theonomics the debt of country St. Maarten has increased even though they placed the 51 million dollars the bridge will cost under a separate entity (NV) it is the responsibility of government indirectly especially regarding the loan for the bridge to nowhere. The cost of building this bridge Tuitt said increased the debts the government of St. Maarten has by 51 million dollars. The Finance Minister said when he took office in May 2012 one of the first things he looked at was the insurance and that was placed on public bidding. Due to this procedure, the premiums for vehicles went down by more than 50%. Tuitt said the question now is how was it possible that the premium for vehicles under the UP/DP Government (Theonomics) was double. Tuitt said he wants to know why the UP leader and the UP government did not save the people's money when they were in office. Tuitt said the current government National Alliance/Democratic Party/IND also placed the insurance for the government buildings on bidding and there again they managed to have all the government buildings including the police station insured for the same amount they UP/DP was paying for half the amount of buildings they insured. Tuitt said right now the NA/DP/IND have double the amount of buildings insured for the same price.

COLA Payments to Pensioners Realized.

The Minister of Finance also announced on Monday that the Cost of Living Allowance (COLA) for pensioners were paid before the ending of 2012. Tuitt said the Coast Guards did not receive their COLA payments as yet because there is a technicality with the Coast Guards that has to be regulated before they could receive the additional payments. The Finance Minister said that St. Maarten has to safeguard an agreement with the Dutch Government and when that is finalized then the salary structure for the Coast Guards will be adjusted.

2013 Budget not yet Approved by CFT --- CFT Asks More Questions.

Finance Minister Roland Tuitt said due to some technical issues, the CFT issued a negative advice on the draft budget of 2013. Tuitt said the information his Ministry sent to the CFT was sent late, which was after the CFT made their decision. He said right now the CFT is taking the additional information that was provided to them into consideration after which they would adapt their advice hopefully by next week. Tuitt said the CFT posed questions on the compliance issue but his contention with the CFT is that the current government has an aim which is to increase compliance by 10%. Tuitt said if compliance is increased on a budget of 476 million then the compliance increase will be to the tune of 48 million. He said even though government is aiming at increasing compliance by 10% they only budgeted 20 million for the increase of tax compliance which is less than half they are aiming to collect. He said that with that kind of figures it is clear that after the calculation is done they actually increased compliance by less that 5% in the budget. "The figure might sound big but realistically it's less than 5% of the budget. We are putting structures in place for the increase of tax compliance and various reports were submitted to show how the collection process will take place. These reports were sent to the CFT so they can see how government intends to collect the monies they budgeted for compliance. Tuitt said with the additional information provided to the CFT he hopes that they will change their opinion and advice. The Finance Minister further explained that the CFT believes that St. Maarten should cut the amount by half. He said that the CFT is a bit hesitant because St. Maarten acted like a "rude child" in the past. He said he already indicated to the CFT that the government now in office is not the same and they have a different vision, therefore they should be treated as new and not be blamed for what happened in the past. Tuitt said last year the CFT approved the 20 million that was to be collected on the condominium taxes and they got burned and now they are saying they don't want to get burned again. Tuitt said the increase in compliance is far different from trying to collect monies from foreign real estate owners. Tuitt said even though St. Maarten did not place much focus on compliance they managed to increase their tax compliance by 6 million guilders. He said in actuality the current discussion with the compliance boils down to four million because the CFT themselves believe that St. Maarten could budget 10 million for tax compliance.

The Finance Minister made clear that budgets are estimates and it also based on assumptions and risks must be taken when dealing with assumptions. He said in accounting these risks have to be calculated risks, therefore tolerance has to be exercised based on what is documented.

Tuitt said his government ensured that taxes were not increased neither would the common man will be affected. Tuitt said when government was looking for revenues they looked at the casinos, and taxing alcohol and tobacco sales while increasing tax compliance. Tuitt said that his government protected the common man and instead has been looking for more relief for the people. The Finance Minister further explained that government is currently working on a plan to bring about more relief for people that are making salaries of Naf. 5000.00 or less. He said government is also looking for ways to decrease GEBE prices and other prices within the economy. When asked when the budget will process will be finalized with the CFT so that it can be taken to Parliament, Tuitt said that government has until this Friday to react since the letter was sent to the Kingdom Council. He said the CFT sent him another 16 questions and the answers will be provided early this week so that they could amend their advice.

Tuitt Yet to Respond to SOAB Report on TAXAND.

In relation to the TAXAND investigation, Tuitt told SMN News that he did not send his reaction to the SOAB as yet on their drafted report. He said he was tied up with the budget and the CFT but hopefully by next week he will be able to send his reactions to the SOAB so they could issue their final report. When all of this completed the TAXAND saga will be handled in the Council of Ministers by the end of January 2013.

PHILIPSBURG:--- Preparations are well under way for the public to have the opportunity to meet with Members of the Dutch First Chamber of Parliament, also known as the Senate, who will be on the island January 10 to meet the public at an open event.

"I am very pleased," said President of Parliament Hon. Drs. Rodolphe Samuel on Monday that the community will have the opportunity to talk with Dutch Members of Parliament (MPs).

The public can meet with Dutch MPs on Thursday, January 10 at the Cultural Centre on Backstreet from 7:00pm to 8:30pm.

Since Kingdom laws are directly applicable on Sint Maarten and the policies of the Kingdom Government directly impact Sint Maarten, this means that the First Chamber has a great influence on the lives of the people of Sint Maarten, President Samuel pointed out on Monday.

"It is with this mind-set that this session is being held. This is an opportunity for a personal meeting with the Members of the First Chamber, where Members can hear for example about the new political structure introduced on October 10, 2010, the experience with respect to the relationship between Sint Maarten, the Netherlands and in particularly with Sint Eustatius and Saba, and any other topic that may arise.

"The Members of the First Chamber are looking forward to an open and constructive exchange of views with the people of Sint Maarten," President Samuel added.

One of the issues that the community can discuss with Dutch MPs is the new Dutch Government's intention to present a law to apply the same residency registration rules in the Netherlands for people from Aruba, Curacao and Sint Maarten as overseas countries have for Dutch people who want to reside on the islands.

One of the requirements is that individuals from the aforementioned islands would have to provide proof of good conduct; they must have a degree/diploma; they should have work or sufficient income to support them while in the Netherlands.

The aim is to submit the initiative law in January 2013.

Tuesday, January 15

The 26th annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Lecture:

"St. Martin Culture from an American Perspective"

by Eugene Grabowski, MD, F.A.C.S.

Philipsburg Jubilee Library, 7:30 PM.

Organized by Conscious Lyrics Foundation,

in collaboration with House of Nehesi Publishers.

I have taken note of the recent statements made mid-week by the Hon. Minister of Justice Roland Duncan with respect to crime where it is down. If this is indeed the case, I take this opportunity to commend the men and women in law enforcement for a job well done.

The UP parliamentary faction is very much interested in receiving the 2012 statistics on crime and other relevant information, and we will be requesting these and seeking information with respect to 2013 crime fighting initiatives by our law enforcement entities.

We will share this information with the public as transparency is very important and the public has the right to know.

We would like to know what the Police, Immigration & Naturalization Services, Customs, and Coast Guard to start with, are doing for 2013 to combat crime and keep our community safe throughout the year.

The UP parliamentary faction favours a proactive approach to fighting crime where prevention is the number one deterrent.

The UP faction has also taken note of a newspaper article on Friday in one of the daily papers where the story alleges information received from anonymous sources, that border control and security is a major concern at a port(s) of entry.

Border security is one of the main elements in keeping our Sint Maarten communities safe from outside criminal elements. Government already went through a process of offering a form of amnesty, granting legal status to thousands of undocumented persons two years ago.

The country cannot afford to go through a similar exercise again. We cannot allow once again persons to come in without being recorded in order to make sure that they leave when they are due to leave. We need to protect jobs and opportunities for our people and can no longer support feeding the rest of the world.

The former Federal Government of the Netherlands Antilles Ministry of Justice neglected the island territory for years when we formed part of that constellation. Today, it's a different story; it's our responsibility and the buck stops here with us!

Persons who come for legitimate work and are willing to contribute to the economy by paying their fair share, are willing to contribute to the positive development of our society are more than welcome, especially in the case where no local expertise can be found.

Another area of great concern to our community is the stealing of vehicles for parts. The UP parliamentary faction would like to know what measures are being taken to deal with this. We have been hearing about this for a long time and we need to know if any progress is being made. We hear that these vehicles are stripped and then the parts are shipped off island. How are they shipped out? Where are they being shipped too? Are our law enforcement authorities working with others from the destination countries where the parts are being sold?

Hon. Sylvia Meyers
United People's (UP) Party Interim Faction Leader
Member of Parliament

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- Minister of Public Health, Social Development and Labour Hon. Cornelius de Weever says he welcomes the news of the new regional health organization, the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) starting with its formal operations on January 1.

CARPHA has been created by the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) with support from the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO)/World Health Organization (WHO) and international partners including Canada, the United States and the United Kingdom.

CARPHA's work will be aligned with the principles of the Caribbean Cooperation in Health (CCH III) initiative, which seeks to improve the health of the people of the Caribbean and reduce the risks of disease, injury, and disability.

Minister De Weever says that the principles of the Caribbean Cooperation in Health are also in line with his 'Get Checked' campaign to improve the welfare and health of the people of Sint Maarten, and that the Ministry of Public Health will be making use of CARPHA's capacities for the country.

At CARPHA's Board of Directors meeting in Trinidad last week, the appointment of Dr. James Hospedales was announced as the agency's new Executive Director. Hospedales is a former director of CAREC and currently senior advisor on prevention and control of chronic diseases at PAHO/WHO.

Last September Minister De Weever met with several CARICOM Ministers of Public Health who attended a PAHO meeting regarding CARPHA. "I understand their objective, because the Caribbean as a region has and may have unique health priorities. It is important that they have a united voice when addressing international health initiatives," Minister of Cornelius de Weever stated last September.

CARPHA will facilitate public health research to address common health problems in the region, including the rising epidemic of chronic non-communicable diseases, violence and injuries, and emerging and re-emerging diseases such as tuberculosis-HIV co-infection.

CARPHA comprises of the merging of operations of five regional health institutions: the Caribbean Epidemiology Centre (CAREC), the Caribbean Food and Nutrition Institute (CFNI), the Caribbean Health Research Council (CHRC), the Caribbean Environmental Health Institute (CEHI), and the Caribbean Regional Drug Testing Laboratory (CRDTL).

CARPHA was legally established on 2 July 2011 through an inter-governmental agreement signed by CARICOM Member States.

CARPHA is based in Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago, and will be located initially at the current CAREC site, but is expected to move to new premises in Coura, St. Augustine, Trinidad, by the beginning of 2015.

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- The Christmas holidays have come and gone and thousands of school children are back in school since last week Thursday.

This is the first full week of school and work for many others as well, and the School Busing & Taxi Dispatching Inspection Department of Economic Affairs, reminds motorists to drive safely.

School Bus Section Inspection Head Martha Thewet says she is calling on all motorists to observe the traffic rules, and of course it is always important to drive cautiously in and around school zones.

Heavy equipment is prohibited from operating during 6:30am to 8:30am and 12:00pm to 2:00pm.

The School Bus Inspection section is also appealing to parents to speak with their children about proper behavior while being transported on a school bus to and from school.

This is a New Year and everybody's cooperation is necessary in order to make this a safe busing experience for the hundreds of children that travel via bus to school.

Philipsburg:--- The friends, co-workers, and a church team that organized the search for their missing colleague and friend has issued a strong call to the community of St. Maarten to join them in their search mission for Annemarie Lynch (41) who went missing since December 22nd, 2012. Another search will be held on Sunday January 6th, 2013 starting at 1pm. Persons that are interested in joining the search should gather at the Peiking Restaurant in Cole Bay.

A small team of people mostly from the Jamaican community held a search on Saturday January 5th, 2013. The search team gathered at the Le Grand Marche parking lot and from there they were taken by bus to Cupe Coy Beach.

One of the persons on the team told SMN News that they searched Mullet Bay Beach, Cupe Coy Beach, and lastly they went to Cay Bay Beach to search. The woman who has been residing on St. Maarten for a number of years said the small group of people that joined the search combed the areas where they search. She said she was not looking for a body instead she was looking for evidence such as the missing woman's clothing and other items that might help police with their investigation. "In my opinion, the body has decayed so we need to find things that would lead police to where Annmarie Lynch was last seen or taken." Among those searching was the woman's boyfriend whom the co-workers believe is responsible for her disappearance.

The woman who preferred to remain anonymous said she does not know Annmarie Lynch that well. She said she met her once while performing her work. "As a mother and Jamaican when I heard of this search I decided to join the group of people that are making every effort to find the missing woman." She said when they were combing Cay Bay beach she found a black stretch jeans pants resembling the one that Annmarie Lynch wore the night she went missing. Not far away they also saw a location where a fire was lit. The woman said one of the co-workers managed to identify the pants to be of the same size as Annmarie Lynch. The woman said a child found an earring but they dismissed it because the co-workers did not believe their friend and colleague wore that earring on the night she went missing.
The searchers said that they made sure they picked up the pants with a plastic bag and placed it in another plastic bag and turned it over to police. "When the police were notified they came to the scene and they also saw the fire. It appears to us that the person who did something to Annemarie Lynch tried to dispose of her clothing by burning it but the pants apparently fell down and that person did not know that." The woman said when the pants was found the boyfriend was walking alongside the beach and when she saw the pants she called everyone and that is how they managed to identify the pants which they strongly believe belongs to the missing woman.

One of the co-workers said that they want to make clear that Annmarie Lynch did not leave St. Maarten to travel to St. Thomas and the news that is being published that the woman might have fled to St. Thomas is completely false and it is also discouraging other people from joining the search team.

When SMN News asked how much money had caused the feud between her and her boyfriend, the woman said that she believes that Annmarie Lynch was involved in "partner hands" and she probably got the last and first draw shortly before the Christmas holidays. Besides that, she said Annmarie is someone who likes to save her money and while people are saying it is a large sum of money the missing woman had, she believes it to somewhere around three to four thousand dollars. Annmarie Lynch is an employee of Pineapple Pete's Restaurant.

I was pleased to have learnt that the staff members of the Meteorological Department St. Maarten (MDS) as of January 1, 2013, have taken over meteorological services and the issuing of weather forecasts.

I was Minister at the time who signed the service level agreement with Curacao for continuation of services until we were able to build up our own human resources. This is a very important moment for the country as the MDS provides very important services to the aviation and boating sectors, as well as our brothers and sisters such as St. Eustatius and Saba, and the St. Maarten community overall.

I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate the management and staff of MDS, and wish them much success throughout 2013. I am very proud of them and with what they have been able to achieve in order for us to be able to run our own met office.

I would also like to take this opportunity to wish the people of our country a Happy New Year. I call on our community to focus on what we can achieve together in 2013. Our country has achieved significantly in many areas over the past 40 years. There is still much to be done, and together we can achieve those objectives by working together.

To all St. Maarteners, at home and abroad, on behalf of my family, and the UP party family, we wish you a healthy year and abundant success.

Former United Peoples (UP) party Minister responsible for Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transportation and Telecommunications Franklin Meyers.

MARIGOT:--- Two individuals, one aged 15 years and the other 18 years, were transferred to Guadeloupe on Friday to face charges of committing a series of armed robberies at the end of December. The 15-year-old, a resident of Sandy Ground, was arrested by Gendarmes following an attempted burglary at a house in Baie Nettle on December 31 at 3:50pm. The occupant of the house however managed to scare the thief away.
The subsequent investigation revealed that this same individual had taken part in three armed robberies previously. They included: Theft of an electronic multi-media item on the public road in Lowlands on December 29 at 4:40pm. The thief got away on a scooter.
The attempted snatching of a handbag in Anse Marcel on December 29 at 10:30pm by two individuals on a scooter and armed with a gun, knife, and distress flare. The thieves took flight due to vigorous resistance by the victim.
The theft of car keys and money on Sunday December 30 at 5:45pm belonging to a motorist parked in Baie Nettle. The thief was armed with a gun and also stole the victim's vehicle.
The 15-year-old suspect, is believed to have been involved in three of the armed robberies, and the 18-year-old who attempted the robbery in Anse Marcel, were taken into custody. Under questioning they admitted to their involvement in the above crimes.
The Gendarmerie indicated the multi-media item and the stolen car had been found and returned to their rightful owners.

GREAT BAY (DCOMM):--- The Collective Preventive Services (CPS), a government agency under the Ministry of Public Health, is calling on the community to implement dengue preventive measures due to recent early morning rainfall.

Minister of Public Health Hon. Cornelius de Weever, 'Get Checked" campaign, is in line with CPS's appeal for residents and business owners, to check in and around their homes and businesses in order to reduce breeding of the Ades Aegypti mosquito, which has the potential to transmit dengue and chikungunya fever.

Last year March dengue and severe dengue were a public health concern in the Region of the Americas. Despite Member States' efforts to contain and mitigate the dengue epidemics, in the past two years at that time, some of the countries in the Region have surpassed their historic record of cases and deaths.

Dengue is a mosquito-borne infection that causes a severe flu-like illness that affects infants, young children and adults. Chikungunya (CHIK) fever is an emerging, mosquito-borne disease caused by an alphavirus, Chikungunya virus (CHIKV).

Although indigenous transmission of CHIKV does not occur in the Americas now, the risk for its introduction into local vector mosquito populations is likely higher than had previously been thought, especially in tropical and subtropical areas where Ae. Aegypti, of the main vectors of CHIKV, has a broad distribution.

Clear stagnant water in old tires and other types of debris in yards can become a breeding ground for mosquitoes bringing about an increased risk of mosquito-borne diseases.

CPS is therefore advising residents to take immediate measures after rain events to make sure there is no clear/clean stagnant water in their yards; disposing of responsibly old tires, empty drums, plant containers, paint cans and other items that can collect water around their homes and businesses.

An increase in the mosquito population puts residents at risk. In the case of where containers are used for storing water, residents should keep these covered. Inlets and outlets of cisterns must be covered with a mosquito net or cloth to prevent mosquito breeding.

Philipsburg:--- Minister of Justice Roland Duncan brought clarity to what is said in the community of St. Maarten when it comes to the issuance of visa waivers to exotic clubs and certain residents on the island.

Recently, SMN News was contacted when a few young women from the Dominican Republic tried to seek refuge at the homes of various women claiming that they were brought to the island by certain men and were being used as "sex slaves". When SMN News was contacted the young girls who were afraid to come forward openly said certain older men on St. Maarten managed to obtain visa waivers for them and they came here with the intention of working as housemaids. SMN News also learnt that the visa waivers are being signed by the Minister's daughter who is working in the Department of Foreign Affairs. On Friday during an interview with the Minister of Justice SMN News asked the Minister about the issuance of visa waivers, whom it is being issued to, and who signs these waivers. The Minister made clear that his daughter does work in the Department of Foreign Affairs within his Ministry but she does not sign off on visa waivers. Minister Duncan said when his daughter used to work in his cabinet she worked on the visa waivers and she also did work for foreign affairs because the department was not yet established. He said when the foreign affairs department was established his daughter left his cabinet and went over to Foreign Affairs because she likes the job. "My daughter does work on the visa waivers but she does not sign them. She makes up the advices but I am the one that signs those documents or the Director of IND who is mandated to sign on my behalf."

The Minister said the only person who is mandated to sign documents on his behalf is the Director of IND Udo Aron. Duncan said visa waivers are issued under extra-ordinary conditions and if someone was brought in and is used as a sex slave then he believes that these matters should be reported to the police because it becomes slavery. Besides that, the Minister of Justice said that visa waivers are issued for a period of three months and not longer.

The Minister further stated that when the new penal code is implemented prostitution will no longer be an illegal act. Persons who want to have sex in exchange for money would have to obtain a license from the Ministry of Justice. In explaining the new policy Minister Duncan said that when someone gets such a permit and they turn it into a business then that becomes a crime (illegal). He said the former Lt. Governor used to issue these permits but he is now refining the law.

"I Don't Own a Whore House" --- Duncan.

The Justice Minister also reacted to the allegations that he owns a house of prostitution and was recently condemned. The Minister denounced the story saying that he does not own a "whore house" he said he invested 37 years of his life in his law firm and he has certain businesses that his company Duncan, Brandon, and Hover established. The Minister felt that there is no conflict of interest involved in what he owns and what he does because he is not the one running his law firm.

The Minister said his pension fund is his savings and he does not need to be in government to survive. Duncan said he is opinion that the reporter and editor of the TODAY Newspaper has something personal against him because he is on a mission to bring him down.

He said just recently when his son in law was arrested the reporter in his reports indicated that they are on the lookout to see if he pulls the plug on the Piranha investigation. Duncan said that the Dutch people in the Netherlands and on St. Maarten hate him because they cannot manipulate him.

Attorney General should "Piss or get off the Pot".

The Minister of Justice also made clear that he has no intention of getting involved in personal cases but he already indicated to the Attorney General both on St. Maarten and Curacao to either "piss or get off the pot" because they would have to give accountability for the monies they spend. He further explained that the national detectives have too many cases lying in their office and he is not happy with their performance. SMN News also asked the Minister about the Election Fraud case that involves four police officers and the United Peoples Party and the so-called case they have against former Minister of Health and Labour Maria Buncamper Molanus. Duncan said it is because of these cases he indicated to the Attorney General of St. Maarten Taco Stein to have the national detectives and the Prosecutor's Office to either piss or get off the pot because these cases are pending for a very long time.

Another issue the Ministry is dealing with is the RST and who would be fully managing the RST. Duncan said the RST will be evaluated sometime next year and that for him will be a major issue. When asked why the RST and the Police does not have the same management, the Minister said that is one of the concerns that he is currently dealing with because while the RST claims to have certain experts, the two entities are functioning separately. Duncan said to date the RST's budget has not been approved and this will be dealt with shortly.

Philipsburg:--- Minister of Justice Roland Duncan admitted on Friday that a civil servant on Curacao blocked St. Maarten from fully accessing the Border Management System (BMS) since November 24th, 2012 because he (Duncan) refused to participate in a new system Curacao wants to implement. Minister Duncan made the clarifications on Friday after an article was published by a reporter and editor whom he called a "Dutch Stooge". Minister Duncan said the reporter in question is anti-government and he is also doing the dirty work of the Dutch Government which in his opinion is to create panic on the island. While St. Maarten was blocked from accessing the BMS system which is in Curacao, immigration officers operating at the Princess Juliana International Airport are still able to scan the passports of everyone that enters and leaves the island. Head of Immigration Geronimo Juliet and Director of IND Udo Aron accompanied SMN News reporter to the Princess Juliana International Airport and showed us that the scanning of passports is done and the information is now stored locally, it is no longer sent to Curacao as was the case prior to November 24th, 2012. Immigration officers are still able to scan all machine readable passports, they are able to detect if a person is listed on a watch list, and if the travel document the visitor is using is authentic.
As a matter of fact, SMN News reporter had the immigration officers scan her passport since it is often times difficult for certain countries to access information from French Passports for the protection of the person's personal information under human right laws. SMN News reporter also saw a passport that a national of Israel bought online and managed to use at least three times when the BMS system was fully operational. That passport was confiscated in November 2012. According to information from the confiscated passport, the Passport was purchased online and has on its cover "World Government of World Citizens/Passport Mondial" the person used the passport on June 7th, 2010 and April 7th, 2011 and also on November 16th, 2009. It should be noted that in 2009 the BMS system was not yet installed, but in 2010 and 2011 the BMS system was fully operational on St. Maarten and the system did not detect the passport to be fraudulent and bogus. An immigration officer said a traveler was in possession of a temporary resident permit which he obtained with his authentic passport and he is the person who used the bogus passport that was confiscated in November 2012.
Director of IND Udo Aron said St. Maarten and its Kingdom partners had some disagreements on how the system will be managed and country St. Maarten had to pay too much monies to maintain the system in Curacao. Aron explained that the Minister Justice could not agree to such a system because all the information and knowledge stays in Curacao. Aron said with this system it is time consuming for the travelers who have to wait in long lines for processing while St. Maarten wants to have its own database locally. Aaron further noted that St. Maarten is willing to share information with its Kingdom partners but the Minister of Justice refuses to allow Curacao to have access and store information for all its visitors. Aron further explained that St. Maarten is not able to access the system to see how often a person travels. "While we have that information on an image file we do not have it in a printable format." Aron said what is available to St. Maarten now is enough for border protection but third parties such as the police and prosecutor office can be hampered especially if they are interested in someone who might be suspected of a crime.

As for blocking St. Maarten out of the BMS, Minister Duncan said that Curacao wants to implement a new system which would cost almost Naf.10,000,000.00 (ten million guilders) to set up, of which one million would be for salaries. The new system will cost the two countries Naf. 551, 000.00 annually for operational cost. This system that Curacao and the Dutch government want to set up will be installed in Curacao and St. Maarten would have to continue sending all its information to Curacao. Minister Duncan said that is illegal because St. Maarten is not supposed to make travelers information available to third parties, he said St. Maarten does have an agreement with its Kingdom partners to share police information but not store or control information. Furthermore, St. Maarten has an agreement with Anguilla and St. Barthelemy as well as the Franco/Dutch treaty and it is impossible for St. Maarten to send visitors' information to Curacao for storage and not have full access. "Curacao and the BES islands are competitors to St. Maarten's tourism industry and I cannot and will not give them all information pertaining to the amount of visitors we get as long as I am the Minister of Justice on St. Maarten. In the beginning I agreed to use the same software and to continue to exchange information but that was not good enough."

The Minister of Justice said that in 2010 an agreement was signed where St. Maarten would share police information; however, there is a law on privacy therefore it is impossible for him as Minister of Justice to agree to give any and everyone access to people's information. He said prior to 10/10/10 the ICT and the servers are on Curacao and since St. Maarten became a country he wants St. Maarten to have its own ICT system with a server on the island that can serve as a backup to the one in Curacao.

He said when data is sent to Curacao it is managed by Curacao and St. Maarten never had full access to information because the island was only a client. To gather information from the database it can only be done by certain queries (pre-determined) the Minister explained. Minister Duncan said he proposed that St. Maarten which now a country within the Kingdom should have its own database and a server which would serve as a backup to the one in Curacao while he will continue to share information with the Kingdom partners as agreed upon but the Dutch and Curacao declined his proposal. Duncan said there was another agreement made which was to have quarter masters appointed to set up a new system that would cooperate with each other but the quarter masters were never appointed. He said someone by the name of Klass de Jhong is the coordinator for the plan veiligheid (safety plan). Duncan said the ICT system was financed by the plan veiligheid which is the Dutch funding which was in the Netherlands Antilles. He said at the end of 2011 the plan veiligheid ceased and the monies had to be shared up among the islands, namely St. Maarten, Curacao, and the BES islands. Duncan further explained that de Jhong was supposed to do a detail accounting but that too was not properly done. He said while the Netherlands Antilles no longer exists one of the heirs cannot decide to do what they want with the monies. However, in this case Holland did on behalf of the BES and Curacao agreed because what is to be done is again benefiting Curacao. He said he objected because as shareholder he wants to be able to appoint his own people simply because he does not trust de Jhong. Minister Duncan said de Jhong went on his own and set up a new company (NV) who will continue with the management of the ICT system.

Minister Duncan made clear that St. Maarten was deliberately cut off from the system on November 24th, 2012 by a civil servant whom he believes received direct orders from the Netherlands. Duncan said that he is sending the Dutch government a letter to inform them that he will hold them liable for the damages they caused the island. Even though St. Maarten was blocked since November 24th, 2012, the Minister said he did not send that letter out as yet, and he did not file a lawsuit against the Dutch Government as yet. However, he did inform the Council of Ministers and Parliament about the actions taken by Curacao. The Minister of Justice said he did not publicize the information because he believes that the media on St. Maarten is biased and when the news was finally leaked by someone, the newspaper and reporter that wrote the story did not seek thorough information before publishing it.

Minister Duncan said he believes that the civil servant received instructions from someone or some Ministers from the Dutch Kingdom Council of Ministers. Duncan said that the Immigration Department at IND building and the BMS was cut off intentionally one night after he was officially notified that the intention is to cut St. Maarten out of the system. The Minister said cutting St. Maarten out from the BES intentionally is blackmail and manipulation tactics that were used by the Dutch and Curacao to bring St. Maarten to its knees but that did not happen.

Minister Duncan said the Dutch and Curacao envies St. Maarten and that was the reason they chose to cut the St. Maarten out of the system during the peak of the season. "What they thought was that we were going to go down on our knees and beg them or they were going to cripple the tourism economy. What I want people to know is that we have survived because the Dutch thought they would have hurt us with our visitors during season but we have survived again without the Dutch stooge and his nonsense. I will admit that we are struggling and we are now using a profile system and there is no "free for all" as portrayed by the reporter who wrote the story. I want to make clear there is no free for all. There have been checks and balances while we have been setting up our own software (DECOS).

The Minister said that the system that Curacao is using is outdated and it is extremely slow. He said that the prosecutor's office cannot provide him with the statistics on fines, the court of guardianship also cannot provide him with the information that he asked them for simply because the system is outdated. He said his vision for the Justice Ministry will be highly technological.

He admitted that by cutting off St. Maarten from the BMS the island got hurt. He said that Curacao already handed over two tapes with the backlog information which he is busy transferring to the new system St. Maarten will be using. He said in another few weeks everything will be fully functional.

The Minister of Justice said its time for St. Maarten to do business seriously because there is a joint Central Bank between Curacao and St. Maarten that is not functioning and St. Maarten has no control over that.

Minister Duncan said he will be looking for St. Maarten shares from the plan veiligheid because he bought updated software for St. Maarten and is setting up an ICT system for St. Maarten. He made clear that St. Maarten is a shareholder to the BMS system and sabotaging the island without proper notice is illegal while he plans to hold the Dutch government responsible for their actions.


Click here to view photos of Immigration Officers scanning passports on Friday.

Philipsburg:--- The Police Traffic Department on Wednesday January 2nd, 2013 in the evening hours was regretfully informed that the victim in the traffic accident which took place on the Bishop Hill road in the evening hours on November 23rd, 2012 by the name of Rosario Dongo born on Curacao who was flown to Colombia for medical treatment passed away as a result of the injuries he had sustained during this accident. Dongo was involved in a motorcycle accident after he lost control of the vehicle and crashed into a large rock on the side of the road.

Also the victim in the traffic accident involving a scooter which took place on New Year's morning at approximately 6:10am on the Longwall road by the name of Reinillio Halley, 19 years old and residing in Sint Peters died. On that same day, Reinillio Halley was flown to Colombia by air-ambulance for further medical treatment. However, he
died as a result of the injuries he sustained during the accident.

Deepest sympathy go out to the family and loved of the victims on behalf of the Police Department (KPSM).

KPSM Police Report

It has been brought to my attention that the Curacao Civil Aviation authorities do not have any money to complete the process of upgrading the airport safety rating from category 2 to category 1, a previous status that the Princess Juliana International Airport had.

The US Federal Aviation Administration in 2011 downgraded the safety ratings of Curaçao and St. Maarten from Category 1 to Category 2.

According to the FAA: A Category 2 rating means a country either lacks laws or regulations necessary to oversee air carriers in accordance with minimum international standards, or that its civil aviation authority – equivalent to the FAA for aviation safety matters – is deficient in one or more areas, such as technical expertise, trained personnel, record keeping or inspection procedures.

Former Curacao Minister of Traffic & Communication Dominique Adriaens announced at the end of December that a major problem is the lack of money. Curacao has been busy with the process already for a year and a half, and major advancements are expected in October 2013. Some laws need to be initiated or adapted.

This means that, we need to know from Government if the Parliament of Sint Maarten also has to adapt certain aviation laws. This should be known in advance so we can properly prepare for this and facilitate this as quickly as possible.

Secondly, the St. Maarten Minister of Transportation Romeo Pantophlet needs to provide parliament and the country information about what were the results of his trips and meetings with Aruba and the Netherlands regarding aviation matters. Once again, where is the transparency in governing? We have not heard anything!

The Minister needs to inform the community if the Curacao Government has been in contact with St. Maarten regarding the money issue. Has St. Maarten been kept abreast of how the Curacao Civil Aviation authorities are progressing on this matter? If so, inform the community and stakeholders about this progress.

I was also informed that back in September; the Director of the Curacao Civil Aviation Authority resigned, and several airlines expressed their concerns about this development. The people have a right to know what is going on, and how this affects us, and whether government has received a request for money from Curacao since the upgrading from Category 2 to 1 for St. Maarten lies in the hands of Curacao.

If a request has been made, how much is it? What impact will this have on the 2013 budget if this has not been included?

Interim Faction Leader Hon. Sylvia Meyers
United People's (UP) Party Member of Parliament

Philipsburg:--- Director of the Postal Services of St. Maarten (PSS) Denicio Richardson confirmed to SMN News on Thursday that he has tendered his resignation which will take effect as of February 1st, 2013. Richardson said he submitted his resignation on December 27th, 2012 to the shareholder representative Prime Minister Sarah Wescot Williams who already confirmed receipt of his letter. Richardson said between now and February 1st he will be working with the shareholder representative to transfer his duties to his successor who has not yet been nominated. In short statement to the media after the interview, Richardson said he will be seeking to resolve and settle outstanding matters prior to his last day at PSS bringing his relationship to a proper closure.

The PSS Director explained that he was placed between a rock and hard place because he was not getting any cooperation from the Supervisory Board of Directors. He explained that it was extremely hard for him to work and develop the Postal Services on St. Maarten when he was not given the tools and resources to perform his duties and there comes a time when that happens when a decision has to be taken in the interest of the company. Richardson said during his tenure at PSS, NPNA took away their assets and there was nothing he could have done to prevent it from happening. Richardson said he was suspended illegally by the board because he wrote out a cheque to pay for computers for PSS. "The purchasing of the computers was discussed and the Supervisory Board knew about this but the chairman did not show up to sign the cheque even though he knew NPNA would have taken their computers and that would have shut down the frontline operations of PSS."

He stressed that the decision he took to resign is not only in his own interest but also the interest of the workers of PSS. He lamented that he was suspended illegally even though the chairman of the Supervisory Board knew that PSS had to purchase the computers he did not sign the cheque to pay for the computers. "After the suspension was lifted, I returned to work and did the best I could but I could not perform my duties simply because the supervisory board would not give me the cooperation I needed."

Richardson also made clear that he will try to have a round table discussion with the three parties (shareholder representative, supervisory board, and management team) to get what is legally due to him based on the articles of incorporation.

It should be noted that while Richardson has been in his position over two years now, to date he has not been receiving a fixed salary and other benefits as it is stipulated in the articles of incorporation of PSS.

Richardson said that there have been several ongoing issues that have not been resolved and while PSS is not yet on its feet, the Government of St. Maarten did not see it fit to include a subsidy in its budget for PSS. Therefore, the Managing Director was unable to sign and make agreements with other companies if there is not enough finances to operate PSS. His lawyer Wim Van Sambeek in a telephone interview said that Richardson could be held liable for the agreements he signed on behalf of PSS. Sambeek further explained that the government of St. Maarten did not follow procedures when they appointed Richardson as the statutory director of PSS. "The law clearly stipulates that the government must seek an advice from the Corporate Governance Council when appointing statutory directors for government owned companies and they also have to seek advice from the same council about the salaries the person will be paid and his or her benefits." Van Sambeek said Richardson has been living on advances instead of his full salary and benefits.

In an invited comment, Chairman of the Corporate Governance Council Louis Duzanzon confirmed that the council has no records on the Postal Services of St. Maarten and its statutory director. In short, Duzanzon confirmed that neither the shareholder representative nor the Supervisory Board contacted the council for an advice prior to appointing Denicio Richardson as the statutory director of the government owned company.

Philipsburg:--- The Corporate Governance Council (CGC) was established on November 17th, 2009 to pave the way for St. Maarten to obtain its country status on October 10th, 2010. Even the though the council has a full board and is currently chaired by Louis Duzanzon, the Government of St. Maarten has not yet seen it fit to have CGC subsidized by the Government owned companies that are obliged to fund the Council.

Some months ago Prime Minister Sarah Wescot Williams said the regulation to make the council legal was never adopted by the former government of which she was head of the cabinet. Recently, Prime Minister Sarah Wescot Williams announced at the Council of Ministers' press briefing that the National Alliance, Democratic Party, and IND government adopted the law to make the CGC legal and that government was looking at ways to recoup the monies from the government owned companies for the CGC. Wescot Williams even said in that press briefing that government will seek to advance the council the expenses they incurred in 2009, 2010, and 2011 and their budget for 2012 since the year had not ended when the law was adopted.

In an invited comment on Thursday, Chairman of the Council Louis Duzanzon confirmed that the council had not yet received any monies from government nor the government owned companies. Duzanzon said maybe the cheque is in the mail and suggested that media personnel on St. Maarten ask the person who made the announcement about the monies if any was paid.

This is the second time in three years that the Prime Minister told reporters that the government of St. Maarten had allocated monies for CGC. The first time the Prime Minister said in a press briefing that the government of St. Maarten had allocated Naf. 400,000.00 for the council and the Ministry of Finance and the council were working out the payment methods with the department of finance which was headed at the time by former Minister Hiro Shigemoto but to date those monies were not paid to the council.

PHILIPSBURG:--- Members of the Dutch First Chamber of Parliament, also known as the Senate, will be visiting the country on January 10 and 11.

Preparations are well underway by President of Parliament Hon. Drs. Rodolphe Samuel to welcome the Dutch parliamentary delegation. President Samuel has also taken the initiative to organize a meeting between Dutch Members of Parliament (MPs) and the people of Sint Maarten.

Members of the public are invited to the exchange of ideas session to be held on Thursday, January 10 at the Cultural Centre on Backstreet from 7:00pm to 8:30pm.

President Samuel pointed out that this is an opportunity for a personal meeting with the members of the First Chamber, where MPs hear about the new political structure introduced on October 10, 2010; about the experience with respect to the relationship between Sint Maarten and the Netherlands, and also in particularly with Sint Eustatius and Saba.

The Dutch MPs look forward to an open and constructive exchange of views with the Sint Maarten community.

The First Chamber (Eerste Kamer) of the Dutch Parliament has 75 members. They are elected by the members of the 12 Provincial Councils. These elections are indirect where voters elect the members of the Provincial Councils, who in turn elect the members of the Senate.

The Senate's main duties are in the legislative field, but it also plays a role in scrutinizing the actions of the Government. Formally the Senate can only reject or accept legislation. Debates of legislation take place in the Senate with respect to the interpretation of a law.

The difference between the Dutch Second Chamber of Parliament (House of Representatives) and the First Chamber, MPs in the Second Chamber are paid to be full-time legislators while members of the Senate work part-time and receive an allowance. They also hold other positions.

The Dutch Senate has been in existence since 1815 when it was instituted by King William I.

Philipsburg:--- President of the Windward Islands Chamber of Labour Unions (WICLU) Theophilus Thompson blasted Members of Parliament on Thursday during WICLU's weekly press briefing for the lack of adopting certain laws that were part of the Netherlands Antilles. The laws Thompson said are to protect workers on the island and had the Parliament of St. Maarten done their job then the workers of former Pelican Resort (Simpson Bay Resort Management Company SBRMC) would not have been in the predicament they are in.

Thompson said St. Maarten has its own parliament now where they can adopt, amend, and make laws and they as a union have been following the meetings of parliament while they have also been monitoring the performance of the various parliamentarians. Thompson said that the Members of Parliament who are legislators are acting as though they are island council members. The union leader said during the parliamentary debates the discussions are always personal and there is nothing about nation building being discussed. That, he said is a concern for the unions on St. Maarten because so far there have been a number of issues pertaining to the working class and no laws have been adopted or amended by the Parliament of St. Maarten to protect the working class.

Thompson said the workers of SBRMC are continuing with their legal struggle and by the end of January the legal team and WIFOL will update the media regarding what they intend to do next in order for the 182 workers to receive justice.

Philipsburg:--- The President of the Windward Island Teachers Union (WITU) Claire Elshot told reporters on Thursday during the Windward Island Chamber of Labour Unions' press conference that she will be seeking a meeting with the Minister of Education Silveria Jacobs to get answers as to why the teachers of Public Schools on St. Maarten did not receive their salary increase (Loontrede).

Elshot said that the increase is due since August 2012 and to date the union nor the teachers have been updated as to why they did not get their salary increase. Elshot further explained that all teachers that are working at Government subsidized schools got their increase but public school teachers are on the 'wait and see' for the past five months.

The WITU President said the time for "wait and see" is up and she has requested a meeting with the Minister hoping that she would receive the necessary answers. Elshot said every month the teachers from the public schools are in touch with her and she has been asking them to wait and see what happens. She said that "wait and see" is over and she needs clear answers from the Minister of Education.

Another concern the WITU President intends to raise with the Minister of Education is the request to change the break that teachers receive in the month of February. Elshot said the union has submitted a request to the Minister asking her to adjust the calendar because the union would prefer if the teachers get the Monday and Tuesday before Ash Wednesday off. Elshot said most teachers from islands such as Aruba, Curacao, and Bonaire that are celebrating Carnival during that time allow those teachers to go back home to visit their relatives and even have family reunions. Elshot said the unions need clarity on whether or not government made the shift on the calendar so that the teachers don't have to take days off. "Our Minister of Education came from the Public Schools and she knows exactly how the teachers think, therefore she needs to provide straight forward answers to the teachers and the unions."

Philipsburg:--- President of the Windward Islands Teachers Union (WITU) Claire Elshot issued a call to all interested persons to postulate for the various positions that are available on the WITU board. Elshot said WITU will be holding its election on January 31st and she will be a candidate for the position of the President. Persons wishing to postulate can either contact Elshot by phone or by email.

Philipsburg:--- The police and other persons related to Annmarie Lynch (41) are still busy looking for the missing woman, confirmed Chief Prosecutor Hans Mos. When asked if the investigation has been upgraded from missing person to a homicide investigation, Mos said that his office and the police have not ruled out any possibilities. Annmarie Lynch is an employee of Pineapple Pete's Restaurant and she has been missing since December 22nd, 2012. Co-workers of the missing woman are suspicious of the Annemarie's boyfriend whom they know as "Wallace or Serge, he is also a national of Jamaica." One of the co-workers who preferred not to have her name mentioned in the news said she has become fearful since the first publication in one of the daily newspapers where her name was mentioned. The woman said on December 22nd, Lynch told her that she was having some serious trouble with her boyfriend because he found out that she had some monies and he wanted to know where she got it from. The woman said that night "Wallace" picked up Annemarie from work like he did every night and that Sunday the woman did not report to work. She said they made several phone calls to the woman's phone but the telephone was switched off. The co-worker said that on Tuesday the chef of Pineapple Pete's contacted the woman's boyfriend to inquire about her whereabouts and he told the chef that the woman was okay. However, on Tuesday December 25th 2012, Annemarie's 24 year old daughter who lives in Jamaica contacted one of her friends to find out if they knew where her mother was because the last time she heard from her mother was Saturday December 22nd, 2012. The woman said Annmarie's best friend whom she identified as Michelle contacted her boyfriend who told her he did not see Annmarie since Sunday December 23rd, 2012. "Michelle then contacted the chef of Pineapple Pete's to see if the Annmarie was at work and it was then they realized that the boyfriend was not truthful and something was amiss about her whereabouts." The co-worker said that Michelle and the chef both visited the Philipsburg Police Station and they informed the police and the police accompanied them to Annemarie's apartment to see if she was inside the house.

The following day December 26th, 2012, the friends of Annemarie Lynch filed a missing person report. Persons within the community have it rumored that the woman fled to St. Thomas but the friends said that is not possible because Annmarie and her 24 year old daughter is very close and she would have contacted her daughter if she had fled the island. Moreover they said that the woman have two children both of whom are in Jamaica and she would not stay out of touch with her children during the Christmas holidays that just past. The friends and co-workers said they  have their suspicions but they are waiting on the police who convinced them that they are busy investigating the case.

Dutch Quarter:--- The OASIS Game training project brought together young and old who wanted to make a long-term contribution to their community and at the same time to other communities on the island. At one time, the activities attracted up to 80 people.

For 2013, those who took part will have the challenge of getting others involved in the grassroots community effort for 2013. The Dutch Quarter participants choose a slogan, "Our Community, Our Oasis (a place of Hope), the Power is within us, Dutch Quarter United."

Various activities were organized: cleaning of the pond near a supermarket; children painting murals while the women took care of preparing the food.

Many community stakeholders took part, such as the community police, manager of the Dutch Quarter community center, teachers, and sport coaches, members of the community council, property owners, firemen, and the young folks on the bloc.

The community came to the realization that a lot can be accomplished by themselves with the help of neighbors and others if everybody comes together. The working plans of the Dutch Quarter community that started in the last two months of 2012, but will continue in 2013 are to complete the pond and the playground; clean and beautify some streets, working towards building a soccer field and developing more places for fun and sports.

A core group of approximately 15 persons have acquired the status of the Dutch Quarter OASIS Games Team Players who received certificates early December. The Dutch Quarter Community Council (DQCC) according to one of the project coordinators Ron Oei, was a key link that was involved in the preparatory phase of the process.

The DQCC has also facilitated the process during the past two weeks and Oei and his team hopes that other community councils will follow suit.

The Dutch Quarter community have come together and to build their dream for their neighborhood.

The OASIS game originates from the favelas in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. In early 2012, OASIS games were organized on Curacao and Bonaire.

The European Development Fund is funding this initiative through USONA.

Philipsburg (DCOMM):--- The Study Financing Division of the Ministry of Education, Culture, Youth and Sports will be extending the submission period of the study financing application forms for the school year 2013 until January 15, 2013.

Irene E. Gaari-Arrindell, acting division Head of Study Financing, said that persons who have already submitted their forms are also reminded to submit the remainder of documents by January 15, 2013.

Application forms must be submitted during working hours from 8.00 a.m. - 5.00 p.m. at the Division Study Financing, N. de Brot street nr. 3, Vlaun's Building, 2nd floor, (opposite the Post Office) in Philipsburg.

Mrs. Gaari-Arrindell indicated that after the abovementioned deadline date no new application forms will be accepted.

The following documents must be submitted along with your application form:

1. Two (2) recent passport pictures
2. An Original Birth Certificate. (If the applicant was born outside of the Netherlands Antilles, the original birth certificate must have the apostille stamp).
3. Proof of Dutch Nationality (A document from the Census Office)
4. A copy of Passport page with relevant information
5. Proof of registration at the Census office.
6. A valid health certificate
7. One (1) copy of filed tax forms supporting parental income from the previous year.
8. Recent grades/report card.
9. Proof of admittance to institution (This document is required before any funds will be disbursed).

For more information please contact the Division at Tel: 5422363/5423718 ext: 131-134,140, or visit the Government's website at: http://www.study-sxm.org.

My Fellow Sint Maarteners,

The year 2012 has been a challenging year for the community and the business community. After the so-called Carnival Coup back in April, and seven months later with a new government in place, there has been no relief for the people and business sector of our country. Instead, new taxes are coming and tax payer's money has been spent as if Government is a personal piggy bank.

Much uncertainty exists for 2013. Within the past seven months, the five leaders of government had to publicly come out and assure the country on more than one occasion that all is well politically within Government. Just before the Christmas holidays, Members of Parliament from the coalition were flexing their muscles, a further indication of a political unstable situation with the remark 10-2=8. This does not bode well for investor security, and creates more insecurity within the Sint Maarten community for 2013.

The people of this community would like to see realism and optimism throughout 2013. The country at the moment is heading in the wrong direction. The current coalition has failed to deliver to the people to date, and 2013 doesn't look any better with the NA-led coalition delivering taxes and debt in the New Year.

As Leader of the United Peoples (UP) party, the UP faction will continue to fulfil its role as the opposition party exposing bad governance and governing with impunity. Sint Maarten must have good governance.

Last year a Member of Parliament left a stain on the highest legislative body of the country when he threatened another honourable member of the House with violence. Another Member of Parliament orders the illegal filling of the Great Salt Pond without having any authority to do so.

The Leader of the National Alliance led Government favours and supports a cricket field and drag race track by filling in parts of the Great Salt Pond in September 2012, but then a month later pulls the breaks on the filling after a public outcry.

Over a million guilders is thrown down the drain for Tempo Turns 7; monies that could have gone towards the expansion of the Sint Maarten Medical Center or other community causes.

When the NA led coalition took over, we heard about a 100 Million Guilder loan. Thereafter, we hear about two tunnels which is another investment of close to US$200 million through our hills. We hear about a US$100 million Justice Park. Translated, close to Naf.650 million in debt for the country that is forthcoming, and this does not include interests which when all added up will bring the total amount that the people will have to repay over time of one billion guilders. Welcome to 2013, the year of debt and taxes!

2013 and beyond should be where as a country we uphold high standards of integrity and set good examples. This moral authority is needed to lead any nation of people. The bad examples of this coalition during the past seven months are clear indications that the country is heading in a negative direction. This describes a government in disarray.

The country cannot move forward with five different leaders at the helm. The left hand does not know what the right hand is doing, a clear example is the illegal filling of the Great Salt Pond, with the right hand saying one thing and the left hand another. No cohesion, lack of openness with the public and an atmosphere of constant instability plagues this government. Welcome to 2013, more where all indications are that more instability will be the call of the day.

Our country has made steady progress under an UP-led Government over a period of 19-months, and this can be seen from the figures that have been released by different government entities. The seven month old NA-led coalition cannot take credit for that.

Various road works such as the one in Cole Bay are nearing an end, just the finishing touches have to be added; a new storm pump station was inaugurated as well at the A.T. Illidge Road Sewage Plant; every road constructed, the utility lines have been placed underground as part of a vision to continue to build the storm resistance of our country; installing sewage lines underground has been a main priority in cleaning up the environment from having raw sewage run in different areas. Sewage lines have been installed in Middle Region, Cole Bay, and L.B. Scot Road as part of an integral sewage plan for the country to get homes connected.

Due to a marketing effort initiated by the Harbour Group of Companies and myself over the years, our country has surpassed 1.7 million cruise visitors; cruise passenger spending is up and Sint Maarten as a destination is number one in the Region where this is concerned, and this is due to cruise stakeholders such as those who offer tours and other activities to our visitors, the business community, and the friendliness and hospitality of our people.

Our country has seen growth in air arrivals due to the hard work over a 19-month period as well as growth in private jets; the Central Bank of Curacao and Sint Maarten (CBCS) announced recently that our national economy has showed signs of recovery in 2012 which demonstrates that sound decision-making and stable political leadership has been the basis of our slow recovery. All plans were executed after sound research into feasibility, environmental impact and economic viability to the people and country.

However, the creation of more debt and squeezing additional monies out of our economy from the same tax payer's, especially looking at the weak global economic situation is not a wise decision at this point in time. The CBCS says we can expect a modest 0.8 per cent recovery for 2012, and a continuation of the economic recovery of one per cent in 2013 based on a careful recovery of the world economy. The UP favours going after those that do business and do not contribute in taxes, and that was a policy of the UP coalition Government eight months ago.

For 2013, I would like to see our community continue to make headway due to the hard work and efforts of the hard working people in all facets of society. Let 2013 be the year of the Sint Maarten Community. There are many positive examples of Sint Maarteners doing good deeds and helping others. These persons reflect the best of our society which embodies all that is good. Let their spirit spread to others and further strengthen the Sint Maarten society in building a stronger and beneficial Sint Maarten nation for all.

The success of the SInt Maarten nation is not just defined by how much US$ you can make, but by our morals and values as a Sint Maarten people. As a young country, with all the responsibilities and obligations before us, we must balance economic development with the development of our society. Together as a people we are able to transform our communities and society overall, by utilizing the positive spirit and abilities of our human resources to their fullest throughout 2013.

I wish all Sint Maarteners a Blessed and Very Happy New Year on behalf of my family, as well as the UP party family.

Theo Heyliger
Leader of the United Peoples (UP) Party

Philipsburg:--- 19 year old Reinillo Halley who had to be air evacuated to Colombia on New Year's day for further medical treatment died of his injuries on Wednesday, confirmed close relatives of the victim. According to one of the relatives, Reinillio was partially brain dead when he left St. Maarten.

Acting Police Spokesman Ricardo Henson confirmed on Wednesday that the young scooter rider was riding at high speed when he lost control of his scooter and hit a light pole then an oncoming pick-up truck. Henson said that the victim identified as R.D.H (19) was wearing a helmet at the time of the accident yet he suffered severe head trauma. The Police Spokesman further explained that the victim was removed from the scene in an unconscious state and he was bleeding from his mouth. SMN News has been reliably informed that the young man was on life support that kept him alive until late Wednesday afternoon.

Reinillo is a former student of the Milton Peters College who recently wrote the Caribbean Examinations (CXC) privately.

Philipsburg:--- St. Maarten registered its first road accident early New Year's morning when a scooter rider was involved in a serious accident in the vicinity of F.W. Vlaun & Sons Tuesday morning.

Information reaching SMN News states that the rider of the scooter was severely injured and he had to be evacuated to the Dominican Republic for further treatment. SMN News learnt that the scooter rider lost control of his scooter and hit an oncoming vehicle which was traveling in the opposite direction. Police Spokesman Ricardo Henson confirmed the victim was sent overseas for further treatment.

Marigot/Philipsburg:--- Owners of vehicles that are bearing French number plates that were stolen and recovered by Police on the Dutch side of the island are calling on KPSM to make contact with the Gendarmerie or the various insurance companies when they recover any stolen vehicles bearing French number plates. The vehicle owners told SMN News that on several occasions the recovered vehicles which most of the time are stripped are handed over to the various towing companies by police instead of seeking the vehicle owner. On Monday, the distraught owner of a vehicle that was stolen on the French side said that their car was stolen on Friday night and by Saturday morning the Police on the Dutch side recovered the vehicle and handed it over to a towing company. The owners said when they contacted Philipsburg Police Station an officer told them that the vehicle was impounded and it is being stored at the towing company since there is an ongoing investigation. "The officer told us on Saturday that he cannot release the vehicle until Monday and he could not provide us with a report to take to the Gendarmerie the same day. On Monday when we went to the Philipsburg Police Station we were given a report on the description of our vehicle and we were told to pick up the car at a towing company in Sucker Garden. When we reached there the owner of the towing company demanded that we pay him $250.00 for towing and storage. I started to cry because I have three small children, all our documents including passports that were inside the car were all stolen and I pleaded with the owner of the towing company not to charge us but he insisted that we must pay him $150.00 before the vehicle can be moved. We paid the money but with a heavy heart."

When SMN News was contacted we immediately contacted the Police Management Team and we were told that the towing company was not supposed to charge the owners of the vehicle for the towing and storage because the cost will be paid by the police since they are the ones that impounded the vehicle pending an investigation. Commissioner of Police Carl John made contact with the tow truck company and instructed him to return the monies to the owners of the vehicle because he was clearly double charging for his services.

Fortunate for the owners, the tow truck company returned the monies ($150) without any dispute. However, they claimed not to have known that they could not charge the owners and the police for the same job. When SMN News contacted the towing company they told us that the police normally don't pay for the services and therefore they have no choice but to bill the owners of the stolen vehicle.

French Insurance Companies crying for help.

At least two insurance companies that are registered on the French side told SMN News that they are in a worse predicament. The two insurance brokers who preferred to remain anonymous said that when vehicles bearing French number plates are stolen they are obliged to pay out the owners of their vehicles one month after it was reported stolen. One of the insurers said that in most cases the vehicles are recovered the next day or two after it was stolen by the Dutch side police and these vehicles are turned over to the towing companies. The insurers said that no information on the vehicles that were recovered is ever turned over to the Gendarmerie or to the insurance companies. They said that the towing companies know the French insurance law so they would keep the vehicle for two or three months before they contact them and when that is done the storage fees they have to pay is far more that what the wreckage is worth. "Most of time when we are contacted we have to leave the vehicles with the towing companies because we already paid out the owner for the vehicles and to pay storage fees for a wrecked or stripped vehicle does not make much sense." The insurers said they believe that the police are in cahoots with the tow truck companies. "Somebody is paying somebody here because the police and the gendarmes work closely yet they do not send information on stolen vehicles that they recover to the Gendarmes, we do not know if the Gendarmes turn over information to the Dutch side police either when they recover stolen vehicles with Dutch number plates but what we know every vehicle has an insurance sticker indicating which insurance company the vehicle is insured with. If the police is not in the rip off business with the towing companies then they would at least make an effort to contact the insurance companies. All of the towing companies both French and Dutch side sell car parts. These parts are from the vehicles that were stolen and recovered by police and turned over to them." One insurer told SMN News that towing companies sell parts as if they are auto parts dealers but they don't buy parts overseas neither do they buy scrap cars.

Sandy Ground:--- Three gunmen entered V&N Enterprise located in Sandy Ground on Monday afternoon and robbed the owners at gunpoint. The three armed robbers managed to escape with the two cash pans while injuring one person. According to information provided to SMN News by an eyewitness, the three masked gunmen arrived on the scene in a small blue car (most likely a Hyundai Atos). The eyewitness said that the robbers reversed the car up to the entrance of the gated supermarket before robbing the establishment. The eyewitness said the the thieves got away with two cash registers after they hit a female cashier on her head with one of the guns. SMN News further learnt that the bandits managed to escape towards Lowland area.

Captain Sylvain Joulault confirmed to SMN News that an armed robbery was committed at a Chinese Supermarket in Sandy Ground and one person was hit in the face with a gun butt. Joulault said the victim suffered injuries to the face but the injuries were not fatal. The Gendarmerie has since opened an investigation to find the culprits that robbed the supermarket on Monday afternoon.